Cabo da Roca Lighthouse, Lighthouse at continental Europe's westernmost point in Colares, Portugal.
Description
Cabo da Roca Lighthouse is a white-tiled tower with a red walkway situated on granite cliffs at continental Europe's westernmost edge. The structure rises roughly 160 meters above the Atlantic and contains basic navigation equipment within.
History
This lighthouse began operating in 1772 following an order from the Marquis of Pombal and was Portugal's first purpose-built navigation structure. It marked a turning point in Portuguese maritime history.
Culture
A stone monument nearby displays verses from Luís de Camões' Os Lusíadas, referencing what Romans called Promontorium Magnum. This spot holds deep meaning in Portuguese identity as the continent's western edge.
Practical
The best way to reach it is by train from Lisbon to Sintra, then bus number 1253 directly to the site. The location is accessible during most daylight and evening hours, with parking available nearby.
Did you know?
The tower received electric-powered machinery in 1897 and achieved full automation in 1990, eliminating the need for lighthouse keepers. This technology allowed it to operate remotely from that point forward.
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Lighthouses tell the history of sailing with their shapes and building styles. Some go back to Roman times, like the Tower of Hercules in Galicia, a structure from the second century still working today. Others are from the Middle Ages, such as the Hook Lighthouse in Ireland, with its...
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