Faro di Punta Marsala

The Faro di Punta Marsala, located on the island of Favignana in Sicily, Italy, has a rich history dating back to its construction. The lighthouse was built in 1860, during the Expedition of the Thousand led by Giuseppe Garibaldi, who docked at the nearby town of Marsala.

Architecture

• The Faro di Punta Marsala is an important example of Italian lighthouse architecture from the 19th century. The tower stands at a height of approximately 20 meters (66 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of around 30 meters (98 feet).
• The lighthouse features a distinctive white light that can be seen for up to 15 nautical miles.
• The lighthouse's architecture is characterized by its simple yet functional design. The tower is constructed from limestone and features a cylindrical shape, typical of many Italian lighthouses.
• The light source is reportedly an oil-fired lamp, although the exact details are not specified.

Location

The Faro di Punta Marsala is situated on the western coast of Favignana Island, which is part of the Egadi Islands in Sicily. The town of Favignana is located nearby, and the lighthouse can be accessed via a short walk from the town's harbor.

Visitors to the area can explore the surrounding Stagnone Lagoon Natural Reserve, a marine area with salt ponds that are home to a variety of wildlife.

Current Status

The Faro di Punta Marsala is currently an active aid to navigation, although its status as a fully automated lighthouse is not specified. The lighthouse remains in operation, guiding mariners through the busy shipping lanes off the coast of Sicily.

Heritage Status

The Faro di Punta Marsala has been recognized for its historical and architectural significance. As part of the Egadi Islands' rich cultural heritage, the lighthouse is an important part of Italy's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

The Faro di Punta Marsala played a significant role in the Expedition of the Thousand led by Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1860. The expedition was a pivotal moment in Italian unification, and the lighthouse remains an important symbol of the country's rich history.

Marsala

Marsala (Italian: [marˈsaːla], local Sicilian: [maɪsˈsaːla]; Latin: Lilybaeum) is a city and comune located in the Province of Trapani in the westernmost part of Sicily. With a population of 79,693, Marsala is the fifth largest city in Sicily.

The town is famous for the docking of Giuseppe Garibaldi on 11 May 1860 (the Expedition of the Thousand) and for its Marsala wine. A feature of the area is the Stagnone Lagoon Natural Reserve – a marine area with salt ponds.

Address

Strada Punta Marsala

Country

Italy

Town

Favignana