Maspalomas Lighthouse facts for kids
| Location | Maspalomas Gran Canaria Canary Islands |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 27°44′06″N 15°35′56″W / 27.735121°N 15.598934°W |
| Year first constructed | 1890 |
| Construction | stone tower |
| Tower shape | cylindrical |
| Height | 56 metres (184 ft) |
| Focal height | 60 metres (200 ft) |
| Range | 19 nautical miles (35 km; 22 mi) |
| Characteristic | Fl (1+2) W 13s. |
| Spain number | ES-12520 |
The Maspalomas Lighthouse (Spanish: Faro de Maspalomas) is an old lighthouse on the island of Gran Canaria, Spain. It stands at the southern tip of the island, right by Maspalomas beach. You can also find it near the famous Maspalomas Dunes.
This lighthouse is a very famous landmark in the area. It is the tallest stone lighthouse in the Canary Islands. It stands about 56 m (184 ft) tall. Only the newer Morro Jable lighthouse on Fuerteventura is taller.
The light from the Maspalomas Lighthouse shines from 60 m (197 ft) above the sea. Its light can be seen up to 19 nautical miles away. The light flashes three times in a special pattern every thirteen seconds.
Contents
Building the Maspalomas Lighthouse
The Maspalomas Lighthouse was designed by an engineer named Juan León y Castillo. It has two main parts: the lighthouse keeper's house and the tall tower. The house has a rectangular shape and a traditional Canarian patio inside. Its design mixes different styles popular at the time it was built.
The idea to build a lighthouse here came about in 1861. But the actual plans were not drawn up until 1884. Construction began soon after and finished in 1889. The lighthouse first shone its light on February 1, 1890.
The tower itself is shaped like a tall, narrow cone. It is about 54.70 meters tall. At the very top is the lantern, which holds the light. This makes the whole structure about 60 meters high. The tower has a classic design, getting slightly narrower towards the top. It has long, vertical windows that let light into the staircase. The tower's color is blue-grey, matching the stone it is made from.
The lantern at the top is a glass dome, about 3.7 meters wide. Inside, you'll find the special lenses and reflectors. A powerful 1000-watt halogen lamp creates the light. This lamp sends out white flashes in a specific sequence. The light can be seen for 19 nautical miles at night.
Location and Importance
The lighthouse is located at Punta de Maspalomas. This spot is at the end of Maspalomas beach. It is also next to the famous sand dunes and the Maspalomas oasis. This area is a very popular tourist spot in southern Gran Canaria.
The Maspalomas Lighthouse is the most well-known lighthouse in the Canary Islands. It is a symbol and one of the most famous monuments in Gran Canaria. It is also one of the oldest lighthouses in the Canary Islands that is still working.
The lighthouse is now fully automated. It runs on electricity from the public power grid. There is a two-story building attached to the base of the tower. This building used to house the lighthouse keeper. It also contains rooms for storage and a generator. The generator and batteries ensure the light keeps working if the main power goes out.
The Lighthouse as a Landmark
In 2005, the Maspalomas Lighthouse was officially named a "Property of Cultural Interest." This means it is an important historical monument. Its protected area covers over 5,000 square meters.
For Christmas in 2005, the lighthouse was decorated with festive lights for the first time. Small bulbs were placed all along the tower. This made it look even more impressive from a distance.
In February 2019, the Maspalomas Lighthouse reopened to visitors. It had been closed for ten years. Now, you can visit it and see exhibitions inside. These exhibitions show traditional crafts from Gran Canaria. They also display everyday objects from the early 20th century. There is even a doll's house from 1930 with seventeen rooms.
See also
In Spanish: Faro de Maspalomas para niños
- List of lighthouses in Spain
- List of lighthouses in the Canary Islands
- List of tallest lighthouses in the world
