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Getxo Contradique de Algorta Lighthouse

Fl Red 5s🇪🇸Getxo, ESOperational

Location & Light Range

About Getxo Contradique de Algorta Lighthouse

Also known as: Getxo Contradique de Algorta (East Breakwater)

A cylindrical granite tower, 15 meters high, was erected in 1904 at the end of the Contradique de Algorta breakwater. This structure, topped with a lantern and gallery, stands 18 meters above sea level. Its white-painted exterior contrasts with the red light it emits, displaying a single flash every 5 seconds. The lighthouse guards the narrow entrance to the inner harbor of the port of Bilbao, situated in Getxo. The breakwater itself was completed between 1893 and 1901, forming a sheltered port.

Why it matters: This lighthouse is indispensable for maritime traffic navigating the busy waters of Getxo, the primary port for Bilbao. It specifically delineates the critical, narrow passage into the inner harbor, preventing groundings and ensuring the safe transit of countless ships.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl Red 5s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
Red
Interval
5s
Raw Code
Fl R 5s
Focal Height
18m
Geographic Range
12.7NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1904

Significant events: Breakwater built (1893-1901), Lighthouse activated (1904)

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
15m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
white
Material
granite

Structure: round cylindrical granite tower with lantern and gallery

Location

City
Getxo
Country
🇪🇸Spain
Region
Autonomous Community of the Basque Country
Sea Region
Located at the end of the Contradique de Algorta breakwater in Getxo, the port of Bilbao, guarding the narrow entrance to the inner harbor.
Latitude
43.3420°
Longitude
-3.0277°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Santurce(2.3 km)
ARLHS No.
SPA-094
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Getxo Contradique de Algorta Lighthouse at night?+
Getxo Contradique de Algorta displays the characteristic Fl Red 5s. 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 Getxo Contradique de Algorta Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Getxo Contradique de Algorta Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Santurce at 0.6 NM to the SSW. Other ports served include Algorta (0.7 NM NE), Santurtz (1.6 NM SSE), Bilbao (1.9 NM WNW), Munguía (8.5 NM E). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Getxo Contradique de Algorta Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Getxo Contradique de Algorta 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.
What shipping routes pass near Getxo Contradique de Algorta Lighthouse?+
Getxo Contradique de Algorta Lighthouse is located within the Mediterranean East-West corridor — a major trade route spanning the Mediterranean from Gibraltar to the Suez Canal. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near Getxo Contradique de Algorta Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Getxo Contradique de Algorta 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.