17 Oldest Lighthouse in the World

Lighthouses are some of the oldest and most enduring landmarks in human history. Built to guide sailors through treacherous waters, these towers stand as symbols of resilience and skillful engineering. Here, we dive into the fascinating details of some of the oldest lighthouses in the world.

Tower of Hercules

The Tower of Hercules stands as the world’s oldest working lighthouse. Built by the Romans in the 2nd century, it’s located in Galicia, Spain. The tower rises 180 feet above ground, offering a commanding view of the Atlantic Ocean. This lighthouse has survived nearly two millennia, withstanding natural forces and human conflicts. Over the centuries, it has been restored to maintain its structure and significance. The Tower of Hercules continues to operate, guiding ships just as it did in ancient times. Its historical importance earned it a UNESCO World Heritage designation.

Pharos of Alexandria

The Pharos of Alexandria was an ancient wonder located in Egypt. Built around 280 BC, it was once one of the tallest structures in the world, reaching about 330 feet. This lighthouse stood on the small island of Pharos near the city of Alexandria. Known for its unique architecture and strategic location, it guided ships safely to the bustling port. Earthquakes eventually destroyed it between 956 and 1323 AD, leaving only underwater ruins as a reminder. Although no longer standing, its influence on lighthouse design remains strong. The Pharos inspired countless navigational structures throughout history.

Roman Lighthouse

The Roman Lighthouse in Dover, England, is one of Britain’s oldest structures. Built in the early 2nd century, it was a key part of Roman defenses along the coast. Located near Dover Castle, it rises about 80 feet tall and is one of only three surviving Roman lighthouses worldwide. This tower originally served both a navigational and defensive purpose. Over the centuries, it has endured through invasions and wars. Though no longer functional, it remains an impressive sight for visitors. Its historical value is preserved for future generations.

La Lanterna

La Lanterna, situated in Genoa, Italy, is Europe’s oldest lighthouse still in use. It was originally built in 1128, though it was later reconstructed in 1543. The lighthouse stands 249 feet tall, making it one of the tallest masonry lighthouses worldwide. Located at the port of Genoa, it has been a symbol of the city for centuries. La Lanterna’s guiding light has directed ships safely for over 800 years. It continues to serve as an essential landmark for Genoa’s maritime activities. Visitors can explore its history at the nearby museum.

Hook Lighthouse

Hook Lighthouse, located in County Wexford, Ireland, is among the oldest lighthouses still operational today. Built around 1172, it has guided ships for over 800 years. This medieval tower stands 100 feet tall and is made of limestone. Positioned at the tip of Hook Peninsula, it oversees the treacherous waters of the Irish Sea. Despite its age, it remains in remarkable condition due to careful preservation. Hook Lighthouse continues to function, showcasing centuries of Irish maritime heritage. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and enjoy its panoramic coastal views.

Portland Head Light

Portland Head Light, located in Maine, USA, is the oldest lighthouse in the state. Constructed in 1791 under the directive of George Washington, it has served mariners for over 200 years. Standing 80 feet tall, it overlooks the rocky shores of Cape Elizabeth. The lighthouse’s beam reaches up to 24 miles out into the ocean. It remains fully functional, assisting ships navigating through the Gulf of Maine. Portland Head Light has become an iconic symbol of Maine’s coastal history. The adjacent museum highlights its rich past.

Eddystone Lighthouse

The original Eddystone Lighthouse, constructed in 1698, marked the start of England’s maritime safety efforts. Positioned on Eddystone Rocks, it endured some of the UK’s roughest waters. The first lighthouse was destroyed by storms, leading to a series of reconstructions. Today’s version, built in 1882, stands 160 feet high and withstands harsh marine conditions. Located off the coast of Plymouth, it remains a crucial navigational guide. Although not the original structure, its legacy continues on Eddystone Rocks. It’s a landmark of innovation in lighthouse construction.

Smeaton’s Tower

Smeaton’s Tower, completed in 1759, was a breakthrough in lighthouse engineering. Situated originally on Eddystone Rocks off Plymouth, England, it was designed by John Smeaton. Standing 72 feet tall, this lighthouse used interlocking granite blocks, an innovation at the time. It stood for over a century before being relocated to Plymouth Hoe in 1882 due to foundation issues. Though no longer operational, it remains a popular historical site. Smeaton’s Tower represents an early triumph in structural engineering for maritime safety. Visitors can climb its steps for a stunning view of Plymouth Sound.

Cordouan Lighthouse

Cordouan Lighthouse, located near Royan, France, is often called the “Versailles of the Sea.” Built between 1584 and 1611, it has been in operation for over 400 years. Rising to 223 feet, it stands on a sandbank in the Gironde Estuary. Its elaborate design features Renaissance architecture, making it unique among lighthouses. Cordouan was one of the first lighthouses to be equipped with a rotating lens. Still active today, it continues to guide vessels navigating into the estuary. This lighthouse is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its historical significance.

Kullen Lighthouse

Kullen Lighthouse, located on the Kullen Peninsula in Sweden, is one of Scandinavia’s oldest lighthouses. Built in 1561, this historic tower has helped sailors navigate the treacherous Kattegat waters for centuries. Standing 65 feet tall, it provides a bright guiding light that reaches far out to sea. The lighthouse has undergone several reconstructions, with the current structure dating to 1898. Kullen remains operational, and it continues to be a vital part of Swedish maritime safety. Visitors can explore its rugged surroundings and enjoy panoramic coastal views.

Gibraltar Lighthouse

The Gibraltar Lighthouse, also known as Europa Point Lighthouse, stands at the southern tip of Gibraltar. First constructed in 1841, it was designed to guide ships navigating the busy entrance to the Mediterranean. The tower is 49 feet tall and strategically positioned on the Europa Point cliffs. It was later electrified in 1994, ensuring a powerful beam for passing vessels. Gibraltar Lighthouse still functions today, aiding maritime traffic along one of the world’s busiest shipping routes. Its location offers stunning views across the Strait of Gibraltar toward Morocco.

Jeddah Light

Jeddah Light, located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is the tallest lighthouse in the world. Built in 1990, it towers at an impressive 436 feet, making it a modern architectural marvel. Positioned at the entrance to Jeddah’s seaport, it provides essential navigation assistance for vessels. This lighthouse is equipped with advanced lighting and signaling systems, keeping up with technological advancements. Jeddah Light remains active, guiding maritime traffic in the Red Sea region. Its height and design make it an iconic landmark for the city of Jeddah.

Bell Rock Lighthouse

Bell Rock Lighthouse is one of Scotland’s oldest and most famous lighthouses. Built between 1807 and 1810, it stands on the dangerous Bell Rock, 11 miles off the coast of Angus. At 115 feet tall, it was the first offshore lighthouse in the world. The structure has withstood over 200 years of harsh North Sea conditions. Bell Rock remains fully operational, aiding vessels in one of Scotland’s most treacherous waters. This lighthouse showcases the genius of engineer Robert Stevenson, and it is now a marvel of maritime history.

Lindau Lighthouse

The Lindau Lighthouse, located on Lake Constance in Germany, is a unique inland lighthouse. Built in 1856, it stands at the entrance to Lindau Harbor, guiding boats and ships through the lake’s waters. The tower reaches 108 feet in height and features a large clock face on its exterior. Despite being inland, it has served as a reliable navigational aid for over a century. Lindau Lighthouse remains active and is also a popular tourist attraction. Its charming design and lakeside location make it a landmark of the region.

Punta Penna Lighthouse

Punta Penna Lighthouse is one of Italy’s tallest and oldest operational lighthouses. Built in 1906, it is located near the port of Vasto on Italy’s Adriatic coast. The lighthouse rises to a height of 230 feet, providing a guiding light visible for miles. Positioned on a prominent rocky point, it aids vessels navigating the busy Adriatic Sea. Punta Penna has undergone upgrades to keep up with modern technology. Today, it still functions as a vital part of Italy’s maritime infrastructure.

Fanad Head Lighthouse

Fanad Head Lighthouse sits on the rugged coast of County Donegal, Ireland. Built in 1817, it has been guiding ships along the treacherous North Atlantic coast for over 200 years. The lighthouse stands 89 feet tall and offers a sweeping view of the wild Irish coastline. Its light continues to aid navigation in this remote and scenic part of Ireland. Fanad Head has become a popular destination, with visitors exploring its history and surrounding natural beauty. The lighthouse still operates, combining history with modern functionality.

Montauk Point Lighthouse

Montauk Point Lighthouse, located on Long Island, New York, is the oldest lighthouse in New York State. Constructed in 1796, it was authorized by President George Washington. The lighthouse stands 110 feet tall and offers a crucial guiding light for ships in the Atlantic. Positioned at the eastern tip of Long Island, it has served as a landmark for sailors for over two centuries. Montauk Point remains fully operational, helping vessels navigate the busy northeastern waters. It is also a popular historical site and a symbol of American maritime heritage.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.