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Figueira da Foz Lighthouse

Fl Red 4s🇵🇹Figueira da Foz, PTOperational

Location & Light Range

About Figueira da Foz Lighthouse

Also known as: Figueira da Foz (Forte de Santa Catarina)

Completed in 1886, this lighthouse stands within the walls of the Forte de Santa Catarina, a fortification dating from the late 16th century. The structure is a 10-meter-tall, round, cylindrical cast iron tower, painted red and topped with a lantern and gallery. It emits a single green flash every 4 seconds. For many years, its light marked the north side of the entrance to the Rio Mondego, guiding vessels to the nearby port of Figueira da Foz. Although it ceased active service in 1968, it may continue to function as a daybeacon.

Why it matters: Its unique placement within an older military fort and its construction as a French prefabricated cast iron tower highlight specific aspects of maritime and architectural history.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl Red 4s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
Red
Interval
4s
Raw Code
Fl G 4s
Light Range
4NM (7.4 km)

Construction & History

Year Built
1886

Significant events: Inactive since 1968

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
10m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
red
Material
cast iron

Structure: round cylindrical cast iron tower with lantern and gallery, painted red

Location

City
Figueira da Foz
Country
🇵🇹Portugal
Region
Coimbra
Sea Region
Located within the walls of the late 16th century Forte de Santa Catarina, on the north side of the entrance to the Rio Mondego at Figueira da Foz.
Latitude
40.1480°
Longitude
-8.8664°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Figueira da Foz(0.5 km)
ARLHS No.
POR-073
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Figueira da Foz Lighthouse at night?+
Figueira da Foz displays the characteristic Fl Red 4s. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area. The red color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Figueira da Foz Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Figueira da Foz Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Figueira da Foz at 1 NM to the ESE. Other ports served include Bustos (24.4 NM NNE), Vagueira (24.7 NM NNE), Amoreira da Gândara (25.3 NM NE), Nariz (26.2 NM NNE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Figueira da Foz Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Figueira da Foz Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
How can I track vessels near Figueira da Foz Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Figueira da Foz Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.