Cabo de Ajo lighthouse, Lighthouse in Bareyo, Spain
Cabo de Ajo lighthouse is a cylindrical tower standing on the cliffs overlooking the Cantabrian Sea near Bareyo. The structure rises roughly 16 meters from the cliff top, sitting at about 71 meters above sea level, with an observation platform where visitors can survey the shoreline.
The structure was built in 1930 as a navigation aid for ships along the Cantabrian coast. A major renovation in 1980 updated its systems and restored it for continued maritime use.
Artist Okuda San Miguel painted the exterior with bold, colorful designs in 2020, turning it into a striking blend of maritime function and public art. The vibrant walls have made this an informal gathering spot where visitors come to admire both the views and the creative work.
The site is easily accessible from Bareyo and offers free access to the observation platform overlooking the coast. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the pathways to the cliffs can be uneven, and coastal weather can change quickly.
This location marks the northernmost point of Cantabria, making it a geographic landmark worth noting on coastal walks. Few visitors realize that beneath the colorful artist paint lies a still-operational beacon continuing its original maritime mission.
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