Faro de Punta del Este, Maritime lighthouse in Punta del Este, Uruguay.
The Faro de Punta del Este is a cylindrical stone tower on the Atlantic coast crowned with a white and red dome. The structure stands on a base and creates a strong visual statement through its simple, functional form that contrasts with the surrounding landscape.
The lighthouse was built in 1860 using volcanic stone imported from Italy for its durable construction. From the start, the structure served to guide ships navigating the Atlantic coast and Rio de la Plata waters.
The lighthouse is a symbol of maritime identity for Punta del Este and has shaped the city's character for generations. Visitors recognize it immediately by its distinctive white and red stripes, which make it an emblematic landmark along the coast.
The structure is visible from the shore and easily accessible for visitors who want to view it up close. If you plan to climb the interior stairs, wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for multiple levels.
Climbing the interior stairs reveals a perspective that only a few visitors experience. For decades, guests recorded their names and thoughts in a visitor book carefully maintained by the lighthouse keepers.
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