Guide to the lighthouses that illuminate the coasts of Spain
You can find a large number of lighthouses on the almost 8,000 kilometres of coastline in Spain. Watchers of the sea that stand in front of incredible landscapes, illuminating the darkest nights between cliffs. Get ready to discover the most beautiful lighthouses on our coasts, among dreamy sunsets and views of infinite seas.
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Finisterre Lighthouse, A Coruña.
This lighthouse is located where the Romans believed the end of the known world was, Cape Finisterre, one of the westernmost points in continental Europe and an attraction that is popular amongst visitors. In addition, it is the destination for many pilgrims, who, after finishing the Camino de Santiago, decide to continue their journey a little further to end their trip with the spectacular views that surround this lighthouse.
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Tower of Hercules, A Coruña.
This may be the most important lighthouse in all of Spain, since it dates back to the 1st or early 2nd century, being the oldest in the world that currently operates and the only Roman lighthouse that continues to fulfill its mission. In addition, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in June 2009. A true gem that you must not miss.
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Chipiona Lighthouse, Cadiz.
This is one of the most famous monuments in the area, and it is no surprise, since this lighthouse is the highest in Spain, standing with a height of 69 metres. It is also the third highest in Europe and the fifth in the world. Visitors can climb up to the top to enjoy the views; yes, you will have to climb 344 steps, although there's no doubt that the effort is worth it.
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Orchilla Lighthouse, El Hierro.
This lighthouse is located in a very special place for several reasons. First, this spot was considered to be the end of the world for years before the discovery of America. Second, Cape Orchilla is the westernmost place in the entire Spanish territory and, finally, this was where Claudius Ptolemy located the zero meridian, this being the point of origin of all world cartography.
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Cabo de Gata lighthouse, Almería.
Found in a privileged spot, in the heart of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Reserve, this 18-metre high lighthouse was built due after a large number of shipwrecks occurred in Laja del Cabo reef. In addition, visitors can see the famous Mermaid Reef from here, where in ancient times monk seals lived, which sailors mistook for these mythological creatures.
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Cap de Creus Lighthouse, Girona.
This lighthouse can be found on the easternmost part of Spain, where the mountains merge with the sea, in the Cap de Creus Natural Reserve. Moreover, this is where Catalonia's second oldest lighthouse can be found, which is 11 metres high and is currently used as a tourist office.
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Lighthouse of Santa Ana Castle, Castro Urdiales (Cantabria).
Without a doubt this is one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Spain. It is located in one of the towers of Santa Ana Castle, twelfth century fortress that places this lighthouse almost 50 metres above sea level. These two buildings blend to form a spectacular structure, which is the most visited lighthouse in Spain.
You can gaze at the infinity of the sea from some of Spain's many lighthouses, some with history, others in incredible places, but all with magnificent views. Discover them!
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