Cabo Espichel Lighthouse, Maritime lighthouse in Castelo, Portugal
Cabo Espichel Lighthouse is a hexagonal stone tower standing 32 meters tall on the cliffs at the tip of Cabo Espichel. The structure provides commanding views of the coastline and the waters surrounding the Setubal Peninsula.
Construction of this tower began in 1790 and established one of the first systematic maritime safety measures on the Portuguese coast. The area had earned the name of the black coast due to the many shipwrecks that occurred along these waters.
The lighthouse sits near the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel, forming a place where sailors and pilgrims historically gathered together. Today visitors can experience how these two traditions remain woven into the identity of this coastal location.
Visitors can climb around 150 steps to reach the top and enjoy views from the summit, with guided tours offered in Portuguese. Bring layers since the exposed height and coastal winds make the top much cooler than below.
The tower sends out three white light flashes every 12 seconds that can be seen by vessels up to 26 nautical miles away. This repeating signal pattern has served mariners for generations as a precise way to identify this coastal point.
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