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- Tourist Objects
- Portugal
- Cascais
- Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum
The Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum (Farol Museu de Santa Marta) is a unique historical and cultural landmark located in Cascais, Portugal. It is situated within the grounds of the former Santa Marta Fort and is one of the most picturesque sites along the coastline.
The lighthouse was built in 1867 and became operational in 1868, replacing an earlier signal post that had helped ships navigate the waters at the mouth of the Tagus River. Architecturally, it features a white quadrangular tower with blue horizontal stripes and a red lantern, making it a distinctive maritime landmark in the region.
In 2007, following extensive restoration, the lighthouse was transformed into a lighthouse museum, dedicated to the history of Portuguese navigation, lighthouse illumination technology, and the daily lives of lighthouse keepers. The exhibition showcases antique optical systems, maps, photographs, and documents illustrating the evolution of Portugal's navigational system.
Visitors to the museum can climb the tower for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastal landscape of Cascais. Inside the complex, there is also an interactive exhibit and multimedia displays, providing deeper insight into the role of lighthouses in maritime history.
The Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum is part of the Cascais Museum Quarter and serves as both an important cultural institution and a popular tourist destination, offering a fascinating look into Portugal’s maritime heritage and stunning coastal scenery.
