The Genoa Lighthouse

The landmark of the city of Genoa, the Lighthouse of Genoa, also known as Lanterna, is open for visits from Friday through Sunday. On top of Capo di Faro (Lighthouse Cape), where people once lit bonfires to aid in navigation for sailors, Genoa's Lighthouse was constructed in 1128. The Lighthouse operated as both a fortification and a warning beacon. It was separate from the city walls during the Middle Ages, and it wasn't until the 17th Century that it joined the protective walls. The city's coat of arms, a red cross on a white background, was painted on the tower's lower portion in 1340.

The Lanterna, the official lighthouse of the Port of Genoa, has been in operation for nearly nine centuries. The only lighthouse in Italy with a lighthouse keeper, it is also the most significant. Its light is seen from 50 kilometers away. It is the tallest lighthouse in the Mediterranean at 249 feet (76 meters). Its height is 383 feet when taken into account along with the natural rock it rests on in its entirety (117 m). Additionally, it is the third-oldest active lighthouse in the world. Each of its two square sections is built with a terrace, and the entire thing is topped with a lantern that shines light.

Only the first 172 steps are open to the public. It is not possible to reach the top of the lighthouse because its upper part is under military control. The Lanterna can be reached only on foot through the “Lanterna promenade”, a 800-meter path, in part on the 17th Century walls. Lanterna promenade is part of Lanterna Park and is open to the public every day.

Location: Italy