How tall is the Lantern of Genoa and what makes it significant?

The Genoa Lantern stands at 77 meters, making it the tallest lighthouse in the Mediterranean and the second tallest in Europe. Built in 1543 on the promontory of Capo di Faro, it remains fully operational today and continues to illuminate the harbor with a light period of 20 seconds.

Can you climb the Genoa Lantern and what's at the top?

Yes, visitors can climb 172 steps to reach the top of the Lantern, where you'll be rewarded with stunning views of Genoa's harbor and the historic old city. The climb is part of the official tour route and offers one of the best vantage points in the city.

What is there to see inside the Lantern besides climbing it?

Inside the Lantern, there's a multimedia museum that showcases stories and testimonies about Genoa and its province, providing cultural context and historical insights into the region. This museum complements the physical experience of climbing to the top with educational content about local history.

How do I get to the Genoa Lantern from the city center?

You can reach the Lantern by walking along Genoa's historic walls, which connect it directly to the Ferry Terminal. This scenic route allows you to approach the landmark while enjoying views of the city's fortifications and architecture.

Is the Genoa Lantern still in use today?

Yes, the Genoa Lantern is still fully operational and actively guides ships into the harbor, having served this purpose since its construction in 1543. Despite centuries passing and urban changes around it, the city remains defined as 'the city in the shadow of the Lantern.'

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Lighthouses 📍 Genova, Italy 474 views

The Lantern of Genoa

Photo · Frey L.

The Lantern of Genoa — Genova, Italy.

Location

Genova

Type

Lighthouses

Opening hours

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Weather now

23°C

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About The Lantern of Genoa

The Lantern of Genoa - Genova | Secret World Trip Planner

The iconic Genoa Lantern, at 77 meters, is the tallest lighthouse in the Mediterranean and the second tallest in Europe. It was built in 1543 on the promontory of Capo di Faro, but according to some sources a watchtower of similar structure existed there as early as the 12th century. The Genoa Lantern is still fully in operation today and illuminates the sea indicating the harbor with a period of 20 seconds.Thanks to the tour route, by climbing the 172 steps, one can reach the top of the Lantern and admire the view of the harbor and the old city. In the multimedia museum inside, stories and testimonies about Genoa and its province are collected. To reach the Lantern, it is possible to walk the stretch along Genoa's walls that connects it to the Ferry Terminal.And despite the passage of time and urban transformations, Genoa remains "the city in the shadow of the Lantern."