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Borj Spartel

Chemin des Pêcheurs

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Borj Spartel

The Borj Spartel is a historic lighthouse located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, near the town of Tangier.

Overview

The construction of the Borj Spartel began in 1912 and was completed in 1913. The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for ships approaching the port of Tangier.

History

The construction of the Borj Spartel began in 1912 and was completed in 1913. The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for ships approaching the port of Tangier.

Architecture

The tower height of the Borj Spartel is 40 meters (131 feet), while its focal height is 50 meters (164 feet). The lighthouse features a distinctive, cylindrical shape and is constructed from concrete. The structure was designed by French architect Émile-André Grasset.

Light Characteristics

The Borj Spartel emits a fixed red light with a range of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).

Current Status

The Borj Spartel is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the mid-20th century. The lighthouse remains in operation and serves as a vital navigational aid for ships entering the port of Tangier.

Location and Accessibility

The Borj Spartel is situated on the Chemin des Pêcheurs, near the town of Tangier, Morocco. Visitors can access the lighthouse by foot or by car, although parking facilities are limited.

Heritage Status

The Borj Spartel has been designated as a historic monument in Morocco and is protected by law.

Notable Historical Events

During World War II, the Borj Spartel played an important role in guiding Allied ships into the port of Tangier. The lighthouse also served as a key location for the Allies during the war, providing vital support to their operations in North Africa.

Construction Year

The construction of the Borj Spartel began in 1912 and was completed in 1913.

French Architect

The structure was designed by French architect Émile-André Grasset.

Automated Status

The Borj Spartel is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the mid-20th century.

Light Type

The Borj Spartel emits a fixed red light with a range of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).

Parking Facilities

Parking facilities are limited for visitors to the lighthouse.

Location Type

The Borj Spartel is situated on the Chemin des Pêcheurs, near the town of Tangier, Morocco.

  • Year Completed: 1913
  • Architect: Émile-André Grasset
  • Parking Facilities: Limited
  • Automated Status: Automated since mid-20th century
  • Light Type: Fixed red light with a range of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers)
  • Location Type: Situated on the Chemin des Pêcheurs, near the town of Tangier, Morocco

War Role

During World War II, the Borj Spartel played an important role in guiding Allied ships into the port of Tangier. The lighthouse also served as a key location for the Allies during the war, providing vital support to their operations in North Africa.

Heritage Designation

The Borj Spartel has been designated as a historic monument in Morocco and is protected by law.

Details

NameBorj Spartel
CityTangier
CountryMorocco
Coordinates35.787388, -5.9165864
ArchitectÉmile-André Grasset
Current useactive navigation