Favàritx Lighthouse facts for kids
| Location | Cap de Favàritx, Menorca |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 39°59′50″N 4°16′01″E / 39.997190°N 4.266968°E |
| Year first constructed | 1916 |
| Construction | concrete |
| Tower shape | cylindrical tower |
| Markings / pattern | black and white spiral bands |
| Height | 28 metres (92 ft) |
| Focal height | 47 metres (154 ft) |
| Range | 21 nautical miles (39 km; 24 mi) |
| Characteristic | Fl (3) W 15s. |
| Spain number | ES-35900 |
The Favàritx Lighthouse is a famous lighthouse found on the beautiful Spanish island of Menorca. Lighthouses are like giant helpers for ships, guiding them safely along the coast and warning them about dangerous rocks or shallow waters.
This lighthouse stands tall on the rugged Cap de Favàritx, a cape known for its unique, moon-like landscape. It has been shining its light for over a hundred years, helping countless sailors find their way.
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What is the Favàritx Lighthouse?
The Favàritx Lighthouse is an active lighthouse, meaning it still works today! It's located on the eastern side of Menorca, one of the Balearic Islands in Spain. Its job is to help ships navigate the waters around the island, especially at night or in bad weather.
Why was it built?
Before the lighthouse was built, the coastline around Cap de Favàritx was quite dangerous for ships. There were many shipwrecks in this area. To prevent more accidents and make the sea safer, the decision was made to build a lighthouse here.
When was it built?
Construction of the Favàritx Lighthouse began in 1916. It was a big project, and workers had to bring all the building materials to this remote spot. The lighthouse was finished and started shining its light in the same year, 1916.
How does the lighthouse look?
The Favàritx Lighthouse has a very distinctive look. It's a tall, round tower made of concrete.
What are its colors?
The tower is painted with black and white spiral bands. These bold stripes make it easy to spot, even from far away. The colors also help sailors identify it as the Favàritx Lighthouse, distinguishing it from other lighthouses.
How tall is it?
The tower itself stands about 28 meters (92 feet) high. But because it's built on a high point of land, its light shines from about 47 meters (154 feet) above sea level. This height allows its light to be seen from a long distance.
How far can its light be seen?
The powerful light from the Favàritx Lighthouse can reach up to 21 nautical miles (about 39 kilometers or 24 miles) out to sea. This means ships can see its guiding light from far away, giving them plenty of time to adjust their course.
What is its light pattern?
Every lighthouse has a unique "characteristic" or pattern of flashes. This helps sailors know exactly which lighthouse they are seeing. The Favàritx Lighthouse flashes three times (Fl (3)) with white light (W) every 15 seconds (15s). So, it's a sequence of three quick white flashes, followed by a pause, and then it repeats.
Who manages the lighthouse?
The Favàritx Lighthouse, like many others in Spain, is managed by the "Comisión de faros," which means the Lighthouse Commission. This organization makes sure the lighthouse is always working properly and maintained.
See also
- List of lighthouses in Spain
- List of lighthouses in the Balearic Islands
