Cape Vilán Lighthouse, Maritime beacon on Costa da Morte, Camariñas, Spain
Cape Vilán Lighthouse is a stone tower standing 25 meters tall on a rocky peninsula along the Galician coast. It features exhibition rooms and an interpretation center describing the shipwreck history of this dangerous coastline.
The current structure was built after the HMS Serpent sank in 1890 and became Spain's first electric lighthouse in 1896. Its light could be seen up to 60 nautical miles away, marking an important shift in navigation technology for this region.
The nearby English Cemetery holds graves of sailors lost in maritime disasters, reflecting how this dangerous coast connected different nations. The site shows how people remember those who died far from home.
Access to the lantern room is through a covered tunnel with about 250 steps, making it a strenuous but protected climb. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for windy weather, as this coastal location is frequently exposed to strong winds.
On clear days, visitors can observe a rare optical phenomenon called the Green Flash from the lighthouse viewing points. This natural effect occurs just as the sun dips below the horizon and creates a striking moment for those watching from the sea.
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