Cap Cerbère Lighthouse, Maritime navigational beacon in Cerbère, France
The Cap Cerbère Lighthouse stands at the southernmost point of France and guides vessels through the challenging waters between France and Spain in the Gulf of León. This roughly 10-meter-tall structure operates independently using solar panels and provides a navigational range of about 15 nautical miles across Mediterranean waters.
The current lighthouse was constructed in 1982 and replaced an earlier structure at a location identified by geographer Pomponius Mela as the boundary of ancient Gaul. This long continuity shows how important this southern point has been for navigation and geography.
The lighthouse displays regional building traditions through its grey stone structure that blends with the surrounding landscape. Visitors can observe how it marks the meeting point of two countries at this southern extremity.
The location is accessible on foot from the village of Cerbère with a short walk along the coast leading to this southern point. Morning visits offer the clearest views and easiest access to the site.
The lighthouse marks the exact location where the Pyrenees mountains meet the Mediterranean Sea, forming a natural border between France and Spain. This geographical junction makes it a remarkable witness to both nature and human navigation at this strategic point.
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