Faro di Capo Grecale

Located on the island of Lampedusa, Italy, the Faro di Capo Grecale has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century.

History

• The construction began in 1886 and was completed by 1890. The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime navigation, serving as a vital aid to ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Mediterranean.
• The Faro di Capo Grecale remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its construction.

Architecture

The Faro di Capo Grecale is an impressive structure that stands at a height of 82 meters (269 feet) above sea level. Its focal height reaches an impressive 115 meters (377 feet).

Light Characteristics

• The lighthouse emits a powerful beam that can be seen from a distance of up to 22 nautical miles.
• The light pattern is an Fl (first order) signal, indicating a high-intensity beam with a specific sequence and period.

Current Status

The Faro di Capo Grecale serves as a museum and a popular tourist attraction.

Location and Accessibility

The Faro di Capo Grecale is situated on the southernmost tip of Lampedusa Island, in the Sicilian archipelago, Italy. Visitors can access the lighthouse by taking a short walk from the nearby town of Lampedusa.

Heritage Status

The Faro di Capo Grecale has been recognized as an important historical landmark and is protected by Italian law.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Faro di Capo Grecale played a significant role in the Allied invasion of Sicily. The lighthouse was used as a reference point for naval operations and helped guide Allied forces to their objectives.

Light Characteristics (continued)

• The lighthouse's radio station broadcasts on the AIS (Automatic Identification System) channel.