Santa Marta Lighthouse, Cascais (must see)

The Santa Marta Lighthouse stands as a guardian over the estuary of the River Tagus. Its primary mission is to provide a guiding light for ships in the Cascais Bay and the town's modern marina. This lighthouse is a distinctive maritime landmark, instantly recognizable by its unique appearance.

The Santa Marta Lighthouse is constructed as a quadrangular tower, built with sturdy masonry and adorned with pristine white tiles. To make it even more visually striking, the tower features horizontal blue stripes that give it a distinct character. At its zenith, you'll find a vibrant red lantern that emits the crucial beacon of light, ensuring the safety of vessels navigating the waters in this region.

The history of the lighthouse is intimately intertwined with that of the Santa Marta Fort, on whose grounds it was erected. As the 20th century progressed, both the Santa Marta Fort and its accompanying lighthouse began to fall into disrepair. Recognizing the importance of preserving this significant cultural and maritime heritage, efforts were made to revitalize and restore the space. The fruits of these endeavors came to fruition in July 2007, with the reopening of the renovated fort and the inauguration of the Lighthouse Museum.

What sets the Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum apart is its unique combination of a functional working lighthouse alongside a comprehensive museum, a rarity in Portugal. Inside the museum, visitors can explore two distinct exhibition spaces, located within the former residences of the lighthouse keepers:

Room 1 - Portuguese Lighthouses: This section of the museum delves into the history of lighthouses in Portugal, offering insights into the technology and innovations that have been integral to maritime safety. Notable highlights include large Fresnel lenses, with a special focus on the optical apparatus of the Berlenga Lighthouse, an impressive 3.70 meters in height.

Room 2 - Santa Marta, from Fort to Lighthouse and The Craft of the Lighthouseman: Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of the Santa Marta Lighthouse, tracing its evolution over the years. The room showcases a lighthouse keeper's diary, providing meticulous records of foggy days and illuminated nights, giving a unique glimpse into the life of those who tended to the lighthouse.

Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to explore the fort's batteries, enjoying panoramic views of the sea and the picturesque Bay of Cascais.