Maspalomas Lighthouse, Lighthouse and monument in San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Spain.
Maspalomas Lighthouse is a stone tower standing 56 meters tall on Gran Canaria's southern coast, positioned next to the region's famous dune system. The structure features a white exterior and sits within a developed area filled with restaurants, cafes, and promenades where people gather throughout the day.
The lighthouse was designed and built in 1890 by engineer Juan León y Castillo to guide ships navigating the southern coast of the Canary Islands. Since its construction, the building has maintained its original function and was later designated as a protected cultural monument.
The lighthouse serves as a visual anchor for both locals and visitors walking along the southern coast. It marks the boundary where developed areas meet the vast dune landscape that stretches toward the Atlantic.
The lighthouse sits in a busy area with many shops and restaurants, drawing visitors throughout the day who want to explore the surroundings. The best time to visit is late afternoon or early evening when crowds thin out and lighting improves for photography.
The beacon has operated continuously for over 130 years and remains active in guiding ships while connected to the protection of nearby natural reserves. Few visitors realize that this active status makes it one of the region's oldest continuously operating lighthouses.
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