The Cabo de Palos lighthouse is one of the icons of the Murcian coast, a place full of history, beauty and mystery. Do you want to know more about this impressive monument? Visit it and marvel at the views? We invite you to continue reading and discover its secrets.
The lighthouse is located on a rocky promontory, at the end of Cabo de Palos, which is part of the municipality of Cartagena. From its height of 81 meters above sea level, it offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the Hormigas Islands, a paradise for diving lovers.
But the lighthouse wasn't always there. Before its construction, a watchtower stood in the same place to warn of attacks by Barbary pirates, who devastated the Spanish coast in the 16th and 17th centuries. This tower was ordered by Philip II, as part of a defensive system that included other fortifications in the area.
The watchtower was demolished in 1862, and its ashlars were used to build the current lighthouse, according to a project by Leonardo de Tejada. The works were completed in 1864, and the lighthouse was illuminated for the first time in 1865, with an olive oil lamp. Since then, it has witnessed numerous shipwrecks, battles and legends.
One of the most tragic stories related to the lighthouse is that of the Sirius, an Italian ocean liner that sank off its coast in 1906, killing about 300 passengers. Among them, it is said that the zarzuela singer Lola Millanes was traveling, whose body appeared in Torrevieja. It is also said that the ship's safe was found empty, which fueled suspicions of a robbery.
Another of the legends that surround the lighthouse is that of the mermaid of Cabo de Palos, a woman who fell in love with a sailor and who, when she was not reciprocated, threw herself into the sea from the top of the lighthouse. It is said that, since then, his spirit wanders through the waters, and that his song can be heard on full moon nights.
But not all are sad and dark stories. The Cabo de Palos lighthouse is also a place full of life and charm, attracting thousands of visitors every year. In addition to admiring its architecture and its surroundings, you can access its interior and climb up to the lantern, where you can enjoy an unparalleled panoramic view.
To go up to the lighthouse, enter https://visitaelfaro.com/ and choose the day and time that best suits you.
As you can see, the Cabo de Palos lighthouse is a great destination to spend an unforgettable day, full of history, culture and nature. What are you waiting for to visit it?