Farol da Nazaré

The Farol da Nazaré is a historic lighthouse located on the coast of Portugal, near the town of Nazaré.

Overview

• This iconic structure has been guiding mariners for over a century and has become an important part of the region's cultural heritage.
• The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime safety, particularly during the era of sailing ships.
• Its strategic location allowed it to serve as a beacon for vessels approaching the busy port of Lisbon.

History

1. Construction of the Farol da Nazaré began in 1903 and was completed in 1905.
2. The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime safety, particularly during the era of sailing ships.
3. Its strategic location allowed it to serve as a beacon for vessels approaching the busy port of Lisbon.

Architecture

The Farol da Nazaré is an impressive structure that stands at a height of 8 meters (26 feet) above the ground level, with its total tower height reaching 50 meters (164 feet).

The lighthouse's distinctive white color and characteristic octagonal shape make it easily recognizable.

Its robust construction was designed to withstand harsh coastal weather conditions.

Light Characteristics

The Farol da Nazaré features a powerful light source that can be seen from up to 14 nautical miles away.

The light is characterized by an occulting (Oc) pattern, which means the beam is cut off at regular intervals to prevent interference with other navigation aids.

Current Status

The Farol da Nazaré remains an active aid to navigation, although its role has been supplemented by modern automated systems in recent years.

The lighthouse is no longer used as a primary navigation aid due to advances in technology, but it continues to serve as a historic landmark and tourist attraction.

Location and Accessibility

The Farol da Nazaré is situated on the Estrada do Farol, near the town of Nazaré, Portugal.

Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby parking area.

The location offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding coastline.

Heritage Status

The Farol da Nazaré has been recognized for its historical significance and is listed as a protected monument in Portugal.

This designation acknowledges the lighthouse's importance as an architectural and cultural landmark, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Notable Historical Events

During World War II, the Farol da Nazaré played a significant role in supporting Allied forces by providing navigation assistance to ships approaching the Portuguese coast.

The lighthouse also served as a key location for military operations, with its strategic position allowing for surveillance and communication between naval vessels.

Address and Contact Information

Estrada do Farol Nazaré, Portugal