Lighthouses

Did you know that in Menorca there are 7 lighthouses?

Throughout history, there have been many shipwrecks on the coast of Menorca that have claimed the lives of thousands of sailors and civilians. The large number of marine accidents caused the need to build large lighthouses that will bring light on darker nights and stormy days.

The Menorca Canal, located between Mallorca and Menorca, is a marine corridor about 36 kilometers wide, and in the past was known for its navigation difficulties. Therefore, of the seven lighthouses, three were built in the Citadel area. The Lighthouse of Punta de Sa Farola is on the seafront of the city of Westeros, to the north we find the Punta Nati Lighthouse and to the south is the Cap d'Artrutx Lighthouse.

At the opposite end of the island, in the port of Mahón, is the Lighthouse of Sant Carles. To the north of Mahón, is the Favaritx Lighthouse. And in the north of the island, there is the Cap de Cavalleria Lighthouse. Finally, on the small island of l'Aire, in the south of Menorca, there is the Lighthouse that bears the same as this island.

Today, the lighthouses have become one of the visits that attract the most the attention of those who spend their holidays in Menorca. Located in the most strategic points of the island, there is none equal, each is unique, and so is the environment that surrounds each lighthouse.

Favaritx Lighthouse

Built in 1922 and taking advantage of local rock, this imposing lighthouse is located in the Natural Park of S'Albufera d'Es Grau, in the northeast of the island, and very close to the beaches Cala Presili and Cala Tortuga. It draws attention to the spectacular slate stone landscape, rugged terrain and little vegetation. Completely different from the rest of the island, you'll feel like you're somewhere else. It is undoubtedly one of the most surprising corners of Menorca.

Cavalleria Lighthouse

Located in the northernmost point of Menorca, near the beach of Cavalleria, the natural port of Sanitja and raised on a cliff, this lighthouse was one of the first to be built on the island. Since the fourteenth century there had been more than 700 shipwrecks in this area, although its construction in 1857 did not prevent the maritime accidents of importance and, therefore, the lighthouses of Favaritx and Punta Nati were built.

Currently, the lighthouse is open to the public and houses a museum space that publicizes the natural environment of Cabo de Cavalleria and the north coast, as well as the history of the lighthouse. It is one of the best places to contemplate the sunset, as the views from there are breathtaking.

Punta Nati Lighthouse

The decision to build this lighthouse was due to the shipwreck of the French steamer Génerál Chanzy in 1910. Located in a dry wall environment and little vegetation, on cliffs that offer wonderful panoramic views, this lighthouse is one of the most fascinating places to enjoy the sunset.

Artrutx Lighthouse

In an urbanization about 7 km from Citadel, this lighthouse built in 1858 has become a restaurant. Although it does not have the same landscape charm as the previous three, its characteristic white and blue striped tower gives the surroundings a very marine air. In addition, on clear days, from the cliff you can glimpse the island of Mallorca.

Sa Punta de Sa Farola Lighthouse

This lighthouse welcomes visitors arriving by boat to the port of Ciutadella. Being located just 21 meters above sea level, many waves entered the lighthouse and a protective wall had to be built. It is the most accessible of all, as it is located just 1km from the center of Citadel and can be reached by taking a walk from the city.

Faro de l'Illa de l'Aire

And the most accessible, the most difficult to access. On a small island in front of Punta Prima, we find this lighthouse that can only be reached by sea. It was inaugurated in 1860 and, with 38 meters is the highest in Menorca. Isla del Aire is just over a nautical mile from Punta Prima and has about 34 hectares, so you can take advantage of a sailing, catamaran or llaut tour to discover this lighthouse and admire the charm of the small island.

Sant Carles Lighthouse

In the port of Mahón is one of the least known lighthouses. It was the first to be built on the island, and was erected on the ruins of Castell de Sant Felip in 1852. However, it hampered military shooting practices and in 1912 the lighthouse was extinguished, replacing it with a mobile fanon attached to a metal fishmont placed on the edge of the cliff. Finally, in 1917 the original building was demolished and much of the material was used for the construction of the Favaritx Lighthouse.

Tall, lonely and facing the Mediterranean Sea, the lighthouses hide mysterious legends about shipwrecks, pirates and adventures. Stories that captivate both the little ones and the older ones.

For its particular legends, for its unique beauty and for the charm of the landscape, it is worth visiting them all.