Faro Capo San Marco

The Faro Capo San Marco is a historic lighthouse located on the island of Sardinia, Italy.

History

• The construction began in 1905 and was completed in 1907 by architect Giuseppe Mazzoni. The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime navigation, serving as a beacon for ships approaching the coast.

The Faro Capo San Marco is a 57-meter-tall (187 ft) tower with a distinctive white color and a characteristic shape.

Architecture

• The architecture is typical of Italian lighthouses from the early 20th century, featuring a cylindrical body topped by a lantern room.
• The lighthouse was built using local limestone and has undergone several restorations over the years to maintain its original structure.

Light Characteristics

• The Faro Capo San Marco emits a distinctive flashing light pattern (Fl) with a range of 22 nautical miles (41 km).
• The light is visible in all directions, with a sector angle of 215°-155°.

Current Status

The Faro Capo San Marco is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation. However, due to concerns about safety and environmental impact, the Italian authorities have decided not to automate the lighthouse further.

Location and Accessibility

The Faro Capo San Marco is located on the island of Sardinia, in the town of Cabras, Italy.

• The lighthouse can be accessed via a scenic coastal road, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Visitors can also explore the nearby Cardus Maximus archaeological site.

Heritage Status

The Faro Capo San Marco is listed as a protected monument by the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Faro Capo San Marco played a significant role in the Allied invasion of Italy.
• The lighthouse was used as a reference point for naval operations, helping to guide ships into the port of Cabras.

Architecture

• The architecture is typical of Italian lighthouses from the early 20th century, featuring a cylindrical body topped by a lantern room.
• The lighthouse was built using local limestone and has undergone several restorations over the years to maintain its original structure.