Cap Ténès Lighthouse, lighthouse in Cap Ténès, Ténès, Algeria
The Cap Ténès Lighthouse is a 31-meter-high concrete structure on a rocky coastal outcrop near Sidi Marouane, painted white to be visible from far offshore. The tower sits close to the water's edge with rough, windswept terrain surrounding it, where low shrubs and grass struggle in the salty air.
Built in 1861 during French control of Algeria, this is the oldest lighthouse on the Algerian coast and has guided ships for over 150 years. It remains a historic marker of the region's maritime importance and the era when seafarers relied entirely on such structures for safe passage.
The lighthouse has been part of the local identity in Ténès for generations, serving as a familiar landmark for fishermen and residents. Local people recognize it as a symbol of maritime safety and a constant presence that connects the town to its seafaring traditions.
The lighthouse can be visited during daylight hours from the outside and is easily reached with a short walk from the nearby town over rough, rocky terrain. Wear sturdy footwear as the ground is uneven, and be prepared for windy and salty conditions, especially on damp days.
The lighthouse produces a distinctive light pattern that flashes twice every 10 seconds, allowing sailors to identify it from other towers along the coast. This reliable signal operates on mains electricity and can be spotted from up to 31 nautical miles away in clear conditions.
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