Bugio Lighthouse

Bugio Lighthouse stands 14 meters tall on an island at the mouth of the Tagus River, displaying a bright green flashing light visible from 15 nautical miles away. The structure sits within a former fortress complex and forms part of a larger defensive system protecting the river entrance.

Construction started in 1693 as part of the Sao Lourenco fortress complex to guard Lisbon's maritime approaches during the Age of Discovery. The facility evolved over centuries into a key navigation aid and defensive position controlling the Tagus estuary.

This beacon holds status as a Protected Heritage structure and represents centuries of Portuguese maritime tradition and defense. Its presence on the river mouth reflects how people once organized protection for shipping routes.

Visitors can view the lighthouse during boat tours departing from Cascais that last about two hours and offer views of the Tagus estuary and nearby fortifications. Observing the structure from the water is the main way to see this island location.

The facility was upgraded in 2008 with solar panel technology and a Vega VLB44 Beacon system that replaced the original equipment. Despite this modern upgrade, the beacon maintained its traditional role in maritime safety.

Location: Eiras e Mei

GPS coordinates: 41.92742,-8.47429

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:49