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Faro de los Ahorcados / Far des Penjats

Camí de sa Torreta

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Faro de los Ahorcados / Far des Penjats

The Faro de los Ahorcados, also known as Far des Penjats, is a historic lighthouse located on the island of Formentera, Spain.

Introduction

The Faro de los Ahorcados was built in 1852 to serve as a navigational aid for ships traversing the busy shipping lanes of the Balearic Islands.

History

  • Built in 1852, the Faro de los Ahorcados was constructed to serve as a navigational aid for ships traversing the busy shipping lanes of the Balearic Islands.
  • The lighthouse's strategic location on the southern coast of Formentera made it an essential component of the maritime infrastructure of the region.

Architecture

The Faro de los Ahorcados is a traditional Spanish lighthouse, characterized by its sturdy stone foundation and imposing tower.

Light Characteristics

The Faro de los Ahorcads features a first-order Fresnel lens, which emits a powerful beam of light that can be seen up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) out to sea.

Current Status

The Faro de los Ahorcados remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the 1980s.

Location and Accessibility

Located on the Camí de sa Torreta in Formentera, the Faro de los Ahorcads is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Heritage Status

The Faro de los Ahorcads has been designated as a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC) by the Spanish government, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.

Notable Historical Events

  • During the Spanish Civil War, the Faro de los Ahorcads played an important role in the conflict.
  • In 1937, the lighthouse was occupied by Republican forces, who used it as a strategic location to monitor enemy movements.

Conclusion

The Faro de los Ahorcads / Far des Penjats is an iconic landmark that has stood watch over the Mediterranean Sea for generations.

Details

NameFaro de los Ahorcados / Far des Penjats
CityFormentera
CountrySpain
Coordinates38.814518, 1.4117877
ArchitectJosé María Cánovas del Castillo
Current usemuseum and aid to navigation