Faro de Punta Doncella, lighthouse in Spain
The Faro de Punta Doncella is a stone lighthouse situated on a rocky point in Estepona that rises about 25 meters above the surrounding terrain. It flashes its light in two groups every 15 seconds to guide ships approximately 18 miles out to sea.
The lighthouse was designed by engineer Antonio Molina in 1861 and built between 1861 and 1863 to guide ships safely through the Mediterranean waters near Málaga. In 1922, the original tower was replaced with a new, taller structure featuring an octagonal stone design for greater visibility.
The name Punta Doncella reflects the maritime traditions that shaped this coastline for generations of sailors and traders. The lighthouse marks the edge of the promenade and serves as a visible reminder of how the town's identity remains rooted in sea travel and navigation.
The lighthouse is easily accessible from the promenade and offers good views of the structure and sea from the outside. Visit in early morning or at dusk to see the light beam more clearly, as the beacon turns on automatically when daylight fades.
The lighthouse operates entirely on automation using a photoelectric cell that turns the light on at dusk and off at dawn without human intervention. This system replaced the lighthouse keepers who once lived on site and maintained the beacon through the night.
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