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Historical places #5 in Sanlúcar de Barrameda

Monumento de la Luz

4.4 · 1,448 reviews
A functional maritime landmark with a windswept, historical coastal feel.
Monumento de la Luz, P.º Costa de la Luz, 49, 11550 Chipiona, Cádiz, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The lighthouse emits a flash every 5 seconds that can be seen from a distance of up to 25 nautical miles.

2

It sits on a site that has been used for signaling since the Roman era, originally known as 'Turris Caepionis'.

3

To reach the lantern room, visitors must climb 344 steps.

4

The structure features a unique design meant to withstand the intense Atlantic winds and salt corrosion of the Cádiz coast.

5

It is categorized as an 'Aeromaritime' light because its beam is visible to both ships at sea and aircraft.

Overview

The Monumento de la Luz, also known as the Faro de Chipiona, is the tallest lighthouse in Spain and the 17th tallest in the world. Located at Punta del Perro, it marks the mouth of the Guadalquivir River on the Atlantic coast. The current stone tower was completed in 1867, designed by engineer Jaime Font to replace earlier warning structures. It stands 69 meters high and features a focal plane that elevates the light 72 meters above sea level. The lighthouse remains an active navigational aid, utilizing a modern LED optical system. Its construction incorporates a base of reinforced masonry and a distinctive white-painted shaft. The site historically served as a critical waypoint for maritime traffic entering the Gulf of Cádiz.

Photo spot

From the base of the lighthouse looking upward to capture the tower against the sky, or from the adjacent beach during golden hour.

Insider tips

Reserve your guided ascent in advance, as group sizes for the internal staircase are strictly limited.

Wear closed-toe, flat-soled shoes to navigate the narrow spiral staircase safely.

Check local weather forecasts, as the top gallery can be extremely windy and access is restricted during high-wind events.

What to avoid

Do not attempt the climb if you have mobility issues, claustrophobia, or respiratory conditions, as the stairs are steep and tight.

Good to know

Guided tours are mandatory for ascending the tower and are subject to availability; the site may close during severe weather warnings.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet volume within the stairwell and keep hands off the interior masonry to prevent degradation.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45-60 minutes
Best time to visit
Sunset, as the vantage point offers panoramic views of the Atlantic horizon and the coastline toward Rota.
Address
Monumento de la Luz, P.º Costa de la Luz, 49, 11550 Chipiona, Cádiz, Spain
36.733, -6.440
Get directions
Details
Architectural Style19th-century Neo-classical engineering
Height69 meters

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45-60 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Sunset, as the vantage point offers panoramic views of the Atlantic horizon and the coastline toward Rota..

From the base of the lighthouse looking upward to capture the tower against the sky, or from the adjacent beach during golden hour.

Close by you'll find Santuario De Regla, Rocio Jurado monument, Parque Blas Infante.