Cape St. Vincent, Rocky headland in Algarve, Portugal
Cabo de São Vicente is a rocky headland in southwestern Portugal where steep limestone cliffs rise about 75 meters above the Atlantic. The lighthouse stands near the edge and overlooks the ocean, which here is often rough and windy.
The current lighthouse was built in 1846 and replaced a small structure from 1520. Larger renovations followed in 1897 to increase the reach of its light.
Ancient Greeks named this place Ophiussa, meaning Land of Serpents, while Romans designated it as Promontorium Sacrum, considering it the edge of their known world.
The lighthouse houses a small maritime museum and remains under the management of the Portuguese Navy. Parking is available nearby and free to access.
Several naval battles took place near here, including an engagement in 1797 when Admiral John Jervis led his English fleet to defeat Spanish ships. Today the waters are calmer, yet seabirds still circle above the cliffs.
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