David Ross's latest book, "Lighthouses," offers a fascinating glimpse into some of the world's most breathtaking and awe-inspiring lighthouses.
Ross documents how these remarkable structures, which have braved the most extreme weather, have guided countless sailors from perilous seas to safety, ultimately saving countless lives.
Lighthouses are tall, tower-shaped buildings with lighting equipment installed at the top. They are typically located in prominent spots and designed with a specific architectural shape that is easily distinguishable by ships.
The tower must be sufficiently high so that the light can be seen by ships from a distance of 15-25 nautical miles, but not so high that it is obscured by high clouds. Depending on the size and location of the lighthouse, it may be guarded or unguarded, with important lighthouses typically requiring a guard.
The earliest known lighthouse dates back to 270 B.C. when King Ptolemy II of Egypt commissioned the world's first lighthouse to be built at the eastern end of the island of Pharos to guide ships entering Alexandria harbor.
This lighthouse, known as the Alexandria Lighthouse, was one of the Seven Wonders of the World, standing for 1,500 years before two earthquakes severely damaged it, causing it to sink to the bottom of the sea in 1480.
Ancient lighthouses are often accompanied by beautiful legends and stories, and their appearance in movies adds to their enduring romantic allure. So which lighthouses around the world are worth visiting?
1. Hercules Lighthouse, Galicia, Spain
Unlike traditional lighthouses, the Hercules Lighthouse is situated on a peninsula in the Galicia region of northwestern Spain. Built during the Roman period, it is the oldest Roman lighthouse still in use today, with a history spanning over 1,900 years.
The lighthouse stands 55 meters tall and was renovated in 1791, continuing to guide ships along the Spanish coast of the Atlantic Ocean. There is a beautiful saying about the Hercules Lighthouse that promises anyone who becomes separated there will surely be reunited.
2. Tierra del Fuego Lighthouse, Ushuaia, Argentina
Countless literary enthusiasts dream of visiting the end of the world, which is said to be Ushuaia, Argentina. Visitors claim that sitting quietly for a while under this lighthouse helps them let go of things that they can't seem to shake.
Located approximately 9 kilometers from Ushuaia, and across the sea from Antarctica, the lighthouse has been in use since 1920 and continues to guide ships passing through the Beagle Channel. Although it is automated and not open to the public, it remains a symbol of the end of the world and the hope of starting anew.
3. Pigeon Point Lighthouse, California Highway 1, USA
California Highway 1 is a popular destination for road-trippers, particularly the section connecting Los Angeles to San Francisco, where stunning scenery awaits. Dubbed a "pearl necklace," California Highway 1 is a string of world-renowned tourist attractions, and Pigeon Point Lighthouse is one of its jewels.
Built-in 1871, it is the tallest lighthouse on the west coast of the United States and is a must-see for driving tourists from around the world who are visiting California.
