Faro de Melilla

The Faro de Melilla is a historic lighthouse located on the eastern side of the Cape Three Forks, bordering Morocco and facing the Mediterranean Sea.

History

• Construction of the lighthouse began in 1914, during the Spanish colonial period. The tower was designed to serve as a navigational aid for ships entering the port of Melilla.
• Afters its construction, the Faro de Melilla played a crucial role in guiding vessels through the treacherous waters off the North African coast.

Architecture

The lighthouse is a 40-meter (131-foot) tall tower, with a focal height of 11.9 meters (39 feet). The structure is built from brown-colored limestone and features a distinctive shape, characteristic of Spanish colonial-era lighthouses.

The light source is white, with a period of six seconds and a range of 14 nautical miles.

Location

The Faro de Melilla is situated on the Calle Miguel Acosta in Melilla, an autonomous city of Spain located on the North African coast. The city is accessible by car or public transportation, with regular bus services connecting it to other cities in Spain and Morocco.

Heritage Status

The Faro de Melilla has been recognized as a historic landmark and is listed on various heritage registers.

Its significance extends beyond its functional role as a navigational aid, representing an important part of Spanish colonial history and the cultural identity of Melilla.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Faro de Melilla played a crucial role in guiding Allied ships through the Mediterranean Sea.
• The lighthouse also served as a beacon for refugees fleeing Morocco during the 1950s and 1960s.

Current Status

The Faro de Melilla is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its construction.

Visitors can access the lighthouse by appointment, offering a unique opportunity to explore this historic structure and learn about its rich history.