Audio GuideGuia Lighthouse

Welcome to Guia Lighthouse, a historic beacon of maritime heritage positioned two kilometres west of Cascais, Portugal. This white octagonal stone tower, standing twenty-eight metres tall, has been guiding sailors since the eighteenth century. Picture yourself drawing closer to the lighthouse, the cool sea breeze in the air as the sunlight dances off its robust masonry against the vastness of the Atlantic.

Márcio Santos

Originally founded by the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Guia in the year fifteen twenty-three, the lighthouse was a vital navigational aid, employing oil lamps to safely steer ships away from treacherous rocks. It withstood the catastrophic earthquake of seventeen fifty-five and was reconstructed in seventeen fifty-eight under the guidance of the Marquis of Pombal, symbolising resilience and progress. Back then, sixteen Argand lamps lit up the night, casting a glow that reached twelve nautical miles into the sea.

Mike Lee

Nowadays, the Guia Lighthouse utilises modern technology with a third-order Fresnel lens, expanding its reach to eighteen nautical miles. Automated since nineteen eighty-two, it no longer requires an onsite keeper. Instead, a sophisticated monitoring system provides remote notifications of any problems, ensuring its continued role in safeguarding vessels approaching Lisbon's port.

Aside from its practical importance, the lighthouse holds cultural and religious significance. Nossa Senhora da Guia, the patron saint of sailors, is honoured with lively festivals in places such as Vila do Conde in Portugal and Salvador in Brazil. These celebrations pay tribute to her legacy and the lighthouse's lasting presence.

When you visit Guia Lighthouse, sense the connection between Portugal's rich maritime history and its ongoing dedication to safety and navigation. This historic site not only lights up the coast but also stands as a symbol of the country's resilient spirit and cultural legacy.