Punta Sardina Lighthouse facts for kids
| Location | Gáldar Gran Canaria Canary Islands Spain |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 28°09′53″N 15°42′28″W / 28.164712°N 15.707848°W |
| Year first constructed | 1891 (first) |
| Year first lit | 1985 (current) |
| Construction | masonry tower |
| Tower shape | cylindrical tower with double balcony and lantern |
| Markings / pattern | tower with red and white bands, grey metallic lantern dome |
| Height | 24 metres (79 ft) |
| Focal height | 47 metres (154 ft) |
| Range | 20 nautical miles (37 km; 23 mi) |
| Characteristic | Fl (4) W 20s. |
| Spain number | ES-12610 |
The Punta Sardina Lighthouse (which means Faro de Punta Sardina in Spanish) is an important lighthouse on the island of Gran Canaria. This island is part of the Canary Islands in Spain.
The lighthouse is located north of a small town called Sardina. It is in the area known as Gáldar. The light from this lighthouse helps ships know where the north-western tip of Gran Canaria is. It is one of several lighthouses that guide ships around the Canary Islands.
History of the Lighthouse
The Punta Sardina Lighthouse stands on a rocky point called Punta Sardina, which means "Sardine Point." This spot looks out over the Atlantic Ocean. The first lighthouse here was built a long time ago, in 1891. It was part of a big plan to add lights to help ships all around the Canary Islands.
That first lighthouse worked for many years. But in the 1980s, it was taken down. This made space for a new, more modern lighthouse.
What the Lighthouse Looks Like
The new lighthouse started working in 1985. It is a tall, cylinder-shaped tower. The tower is white and has four bright red bands around it. It is about 24 meters (79 feet) tall.
At the top, there are two balconies and a lantern room. The lantern room has a grey dome. The light itself is 47 meters (154 feet) above the sea. This means its light can be seen from far away, up to 20 nautical miles (about 37 kilometers or 23 miles).
The lighthouse sends out a special signal. It flashes white light four times every twenty seconds. This unique pattern helps sailors know it's the Punta Sardina Lighthouse.
Who Takes Care of It
The lighthouse is looked after by the Port authority of Las Palmas. A port authority is a group that manages ports and harbors. They make sure that lighthouses and other navigation aids work correctly. This helps keep ships safe as they travel near the coast.
See also
- In Spanish: Faro de Punta Sardina para niños
- List of lighthouses in Spain
- List of lighthouses in the Canary Islands
