Penedo da Saudade Lighthouse

Category: Civil Architecture > Lighthouse

District: Leiria > Marinha Grande > São Pedro de Moel > Penedo da Saudade

Location

The Penedo da Saudade Lighthouse stands imposingly in the Penedo da Saudade area, part of the locality of São Pedro de Moel, in the municipality of Marinha Grande. It is situated atop a cliff which gives it a prominent position on the Portuguese coastline.

From this elevated point, at about 55 meters above sea level, the lighthouse offers a vast horizon over the Atlantic Ocean. Its main facade is easily accessible by public road, flanked by a promenade and a cycle path that invite a tranquil approach to the site.

Aesthetics and Construction

Inaugurated on February 15, 1912, this lighthouse presents a robust and distinctive architecture. Its quadrangular tower, built from ashlar, reaches 32 meters in height, culminating in a red lantern that marks its presence.

The adjoining building, which complements the tower's structure, is clad in industrial tiles of a reddish-brown hue, giving the ensemble a particular aesthetic. A tile panel in blue and white tones, adorned with floral motifs, highlights the identification of the "Farol do Penedo da Saudade" on the main facade.

Legacy and Operation

Since its inception, the Penedo da Saudade Lighthouse has played a fundamental role in the safety of maritime navigation along this section of the coast. Throughout its history, it has witnessed significant moments, such as the period of World War I, between March 1916 and December 1919, when its light remained extinguished.

From 1980 onwards, the lighthouse was automated, becoming integrated into the public electricity grid for its operation. However, it still maintains a clockwork system for the rotation of its optics, which serves as a valuable safety mechanism in case of power supply interruption.

Interior and Details

The journey to the lighthouse's lantern room is made via a spiral staircase, allowing appreciation of the internal structure. In the main vestibule, visitors will find an environment marked by a high ashlar skirting board, topped by white industrial tiles with a polychrome white and green frame, adorned with vegetal elements.

Upon accessing the tower, a landing reveals a marble floor where an eight-pointed star made of red marble stands out, centrally positioned. In the lantern room, the glass-enclosed area is protected by curtains during the day, an essential conservation measure for the delicate materials of the optics.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt