Faro di Capo Santa Croce

The Faro di Capo Santa Croce is a historic lighthouse located on the southern coast of Sicily, Italy. Construction began in 1838 and was completed by 1840.

History

• The tower stands at a height of approximately 39 meters (128 feet) above sea level. The focal height is believed to be around 50 meters (164 feet), making it an effective aid to navigation for mariners approaching the coast.
• The lighthouse features a distinctive lantern room with a rotating Fresnel lens, which was installed in 1838.

Light Characteristics

• The Faro di Capo Santa Croce emits a white light with a range of 16 nautical miles (30 kilometers).
• The light is characterized by a sequence of two flashes, separated by a period of 12 seconds.

Current Status

The Faro di Capo Santa Croce remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated in recent years. The lighthouse is now managed by the Italian Coast Guard and serves as a vital reference point for mariners navigating the Sicilian coast.

Location and Accessibility

The Faro di Capo Santa Croce is situated on Via Sant'Elena in the town of Augusta, Sicily. Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby harbor. The location provides stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the Mediterranean Sea.

Heritage Status

The Faro di Capo Santa Croce has been recognized as an important historical landmark by the Italian government. It is listed on the Register of Historic Lighthouses and is considered a significant example of 19th-century Sicilian architecture.

Notable Historical Events

• The Faro di Capo Santa Croce played a crucial role in the development of maritime navigation in the Mediterranean during the 19th century. Its construction was commissioned by the Italian government to improve safety for ships approaching the Sicilian coast.
• The lighthouse has also been used as a reference point for numerous navigational charts and maps over the years.