Capo Gallo Lighthouse, Palermo
The Capo Gallo Lighthouse (Faro di Capo Gallo) is a prominent and historic beacon situated at the northern tip of Monte Pellegrino on the Tyrrhenian Sea, effectively marking the western entrance to the Gulf of Palermo in Sicily. This location, known as the northern extremity of the mount, is characterized by its rugged, arid terrain which rises 600 meters above sea level, evoking historical tales of Hannibal who supposedly rested here with his army under the cover of vast trees.
Constructed in 1854, the lighthouse features a cylindrical tower that stands 7 meters (23 feet) tall, complete with a balcony and lantern. The structure is attached to a one-story keeper’s house, which faces the sea. The tower and the lantern are painted white, while the lantern’s dome is a grey metallic color. Positioned at an altitude of 40 meters (130 feet) above sea level, the lighthouse’s lantern emits two long white flashes every 15 seconds, which are visible up to 16 nautical miles (18 miles) away, aiding in maritime navigation.
The lighthouse became fully automated and is currently managed by the Marina Militare. This shift towards automation led to the decline and eventual ruin of the keeper's house. Recognizing the cultural and historical significance of this site, the Municipality of Palermo has proposed plans to transform the lighthouse into a museum. This initiative is part of a broader effort to preserve the natural beauty and heritage of the area, which also includes the Nature Reserve of Capo Gallo. This reserve surrounds the lighthouse and is known for its magnificent limestone cliffs and diverse wildlife, offering a scenic blend of historical and natural allure.
Constructed in 1854, the lighthouse features a cylindrical tower that stands 7 meters (23 feet) tall, complete with a balcony and lantern. The structure is attached to a one-story keeper’s house, which faces the sea. The tower and the lantern are painted white, while the lantern’s dome is a grey metallic color. Positioned at an altitude of 40 meters (130 feet) above sea level, the lighthouse’s lantern emits two long white flashes every 15 seconds, which are visible up to 16 nautical miles (18 miles) away, aiding in maritime navigation.
The lighthouse became fully automated and is currently managed by the Marina Militare. This shift towards automation led to the decline and eventual ruin of the keeper's house. Recognizing the cultural and historical significance of this site, the Municipality of Palermo has proposed plans to transform the lighthouse into a museum. This initiative is part of a broader effort to preserve the natural beauty and heritage of the area, which also includes the Nature Reserve of Capo Gallo. This reserve surrounds the lighthouse and is known for its magnificent limestone cliffs and diverse wildlife, offering a scenic blend of historical and natural allure.
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Capo Gallo Lighthouse on Map
Sight Name: Capo Gallo Lighthouse
Sight Location: Palermo, Italy (See walking tours in Palermo)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Palermo, Italy (See walking tours in Palermo)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Walking Tours in Palermo, Italy
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