Farol de Cabo da Roca (Cabo da Roca Lighthouse), Sintra

The Cabo da Roca Lighthouse (Farol do Cabo da Roca) is a historic beacon perched 165 meters (541 feet) above the Atlantic Ocean, marking the westernmost point of continental Europe. Situated in the parish of Colares within the municipality of Sintra, this lighthouse stands on a dramatic promontory of granite and limestone, embodying centuries of maritime heritage.

Constructed in 1772, it was Portugal's first purpose-built lighthouse, distinguishing it from older beacons repurposed from existing structures. Its creation followed an order by the Junta Geral da Fazenda do Reino in 1758, which initiated a plan to build six strategically positioned lighthouses to aid coastal navigation. Cabo da Roca's lighthouse became the third oldest along the Portuguese coastline, solidifying its importance in maritime history.

Over the centuries, the lighthouse saw many upgrades. In 1843, Gaudêncio Fontana introduced a rotational platform with Argand lamps and reflectors. By 1865, inefficiencies led to innovations like a blow-horn signal and electric-powered machinery in 1897, featuring a fourth-order optical unit with a petroleum lamp backup. In 1917, acetylene gas powered a new lamp, followed by a compressed air blow-horn in 1932 and radio communication in 1937. Post-WWII updates added a third-order optical system and public utilities. The 1980s brought electrical grid access, and automation in 1990 ended acetylene production. By 2001, the radio system was retired, simplifying operations.

Standing 22 meters tall, the lighthouse commands an impressive beam visible from 165 meters above sea level. The complex includes nine buildings, originally designed to house staff and equipment necessary for its operation before electrification. Today, it is manned by a team of three lighthouse keepers responsible for maintaining the lamp, monitoring signals, and ensuring communication between Cabo da Roca and Ericeira.