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Located on the northwest coast of Ilha Graciosa, at Ponta da Barca, the Farol da Ponta da Barca is another of the beautiful historic structures in the Azores archipelago, drawing attention with its interesting architectural design, which was first planned in 1883.
History of the Farol da Ponta da Barca
The Farol da Ponta da Barca began operating on 1 February 1930, consisting of a tower 23 metres high, standing at an altitude of 71 metres. To ensure the lighthouse’s full operation and safeguard navigation, a catadioptric dioptric lens apparatus was installed, with a BBT gas-powered eclipsing mechanism as its light source.
The access road to the Farol da Ponta da Barca runs from Santa Cruz da Graciosa, and it underwent a major reconstruction in 1935 to make it easier for tourists to reach. As for the lighthouse keepers’ quarters, they evolved over the years, eventually housing four keepers.
Regarding the electrical system, in 1958 the lighthouse had a 3000W 110V light source with a range of 41 miles. However, in 1980, the source was replaced with a 1000W 120V one, reducing its range to 20 miles.
In 1978, the Farol da Ponta da Barca suffered some structural damage from a severe thunderstorm. However, the lighthouse was restored and has maintained its current appearance ever since. It is owned by the Marinha Portuguesa.
The 80th-anniversary celebration of the Farol da Ponta da Barca took place in March 2010 and featured an exhibition dedicated to maritime signalling and the lighthouse’s history. In addition, the director of the Museu da Graciosa, the Harbour Master, and the head lighthouse keeper gave an important presentation to all who attended the event.
If you’re planning a visit to Ilha Graciosa, don’t miss the Farol da Ponta da Barca! It’s a tourist spot of great historical value, with remarkable architecture and a view that makes for excellent photographs!
Fotografia de Manuela Juliano
Visiting the Farol da Ponta da Barca
The Farol da Ponta da Barca is open for visits every Wednesday afternoon, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
It has a museum that tells the story of over 80 years of the science of light. An interesting fact: for many years, the lighthouse served as a kind of clock, as its light turning on signalled the end of a hard day’s work in the region’s fields.
Location on the Map
And be prepared: despite the many steps to reach the highest point (more than 110 steps), you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the entire Ilha Graciosa, filled with natural beauty. The effort is well worth it!
Fotografia de Paulo Branco
Nearby, you’ll also find the Miradouro da Ponta da Barca, which offers visitors a view of the Ilhéu da Baleia, as well as the coastline and the sea, stretching out to a beautiful, endless horizon. A must-see stop!
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Credits and References: AMN
