Cabo San Antonio Lighthouse, Maritime navigation point on Guanahacabibes Peninsula, Cuba.
Cabo San Antonio Lighthouse is a cylindrical tower on the Guanahacabibes Peninsula with a white exterior and grey lantern crowning its top. The structure sits on a natural rocky formation and serves as a prominent landmark at the westernmost point of the island.
Construction began in 1846 under Governor General O'Donnell and finished in 1850 under Federico de Roncali's administration. This lighthouse was part of the early effort to establish navigation aids along the dangerous western coast.
The structure stands as one of 17 first-category maritime beacons in Cuba, directing thousands of vessels through Caribbean waters annually.
The tower is reached by climbing an iron staircase with 72 steps spread across six levels, which requires reasonable physical fitness. Visitors should prepare for strong winds at this exposed western point of the peninsula.
The lighthouse was built 10 meters above sea level on a natural rocky outcrop, providing extra protection against storm surge. This elevated position also extends the range of its light signal, which flashes every 10 seconds across the Caribbean waters.
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