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Currently, the Jeddah Light in Saudi Arabia holds the title of the world's tallest operational lighthouse, standing impressively at 133 meters, offering a sweeping view of the vast open sea.
Summer marks the season for coastal travel, and no beach trip is complete without experiencing a visit to the majestic lighthouses amidst the vast ocean. The tallest lighthouses globally not only aid ships offshore and guide airplanes but also serve as destinations for travelers to marvel at architectural wonders and enjoy panoramic views from above.
From the oldest lighthouse in the United States to the intricate design of France's Cordouan Lighthouse, here are the stopping points for history and architecture enthusiasts, showcasing the creativity and spirit of humanity.
1. Explore the top 10 tallest lighthouses in the world
1.1. Jeddah Lighthouse
Get up close to the world's tallest lighthouse, Jeaddal Light. Photo: shipspotting
The port city of Jeddah in arid Saudi Arabia is home to the world's tallest operational lighthouse, standing at a measured height of nearly 133 meters. Unlike conventional lighthouses, Jeddah Light, built in 1990, serves as the control tower for the city's port. However, visitors can only admire this colossal lighthouse and check in from a distance as access to the site is restricted.
1.2. International Peace Memorial and Perry's Victory Monument
International Peace Memorial and Perry's Victory Monument in Ohio, USA. Photo: toledoblade
Situated at Put-in-Bay, Ohio, USA, the Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial is a historically significant structure built to commemorate those who sacrificed in the Battle of Lake Erie and symbolize peaceful relations among nations. The world-renowned lighthouse stands as the most iconic landmark of Put-in-Bay, towering at a height of 107 meters.
Visitors can opt to ascend this observation tower at a cost of $10 per person aged 16 and above. Children under 15 receive free admission and must be accompanied by an adult.
1.3. Yokohama Tower
Yokohama Marine Tower is one of the tallest lighthouses globally. Photo: Expedia
Situated in Yokohama, the Yokohama Marine Tower was built in 1961 and has been in operation for 50 years. Renovated and renamed, it stands today as the renowned Yokohama Tower, soaring at a height of 106 meters.
A top attraction in Japan, standing on the observation deck of this world-class lighthouse provides visitors with a spectacular view of Honmoku Wharf, Minato Mirai 21 district, and Yokohama Bay Bridge.
1.4. Barolo Lighthouse Palace
Barolo Lighthouse Palace serves as a unique lighthouse. Photo: maxibuono
Barolo Lighthouse Palace, the world's only lighthouse in Argentina with a journey that takes you through 'The Divine Comedy.' While starting the tour in Hell might sound intimidating, in reality, the Palace is inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy, divided into three parts: Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise.
Witness panoramic views of Buenos Aires from above. Photo: tripadvisor
When visiting Barolo Lighthouse, travelers are treated to a heavenly view of Buenos Aires from a height of 100 meters.
1.5. Statue of Liberty
Icon of the United States. Photo: foxnews
More than just a famous symbol of New York City, the Statue of Liberty is also one of the tallest lighthouses globally. Illuminated in 1886, although not designed primarily for navigation and lacking the standards of traditional lighthouses, it is now recognized as an emblem of New York rather than a functional lighthouse.
The Statue of Liberty once played the role of a lighthouse. Photo: fashiontravelrepeat
1.6. Île Vierge Lighthouse
Embarking on the journey to experience the world's most beautiful lighthouses can be more intriguing than you think, and Île Vierge is one of the destinations that will make for an excellent short trip. Travelers wishing to explore this lighthouse must take a boat, with tickets priced at around $7.66 per adult; for a family, tickets will cost $24.08 for 5 people. Children under 4 years old have free admission.
Path leading to Île Vierge – one of the tallest lighthouses in the world. Photo: orangesmile
Crafted from granite, the interior of Île Vierge standing at 82 meters boasts walls clad in translucent white tiles, providing the perfect backdrop. Visitors should undoubtedly capture some photos from both below and atop the spiral staircase, offering a unique optical illusion experience.
1.7. Genoa Lighthouse
Genoa Lighthouse. Photo: telegraph
Soaring at nearly 76 meters, the Genoa Lighthouse in Italy is constructed with 365 steps to the highest peak and 172 steps to the observation terrace. The journey to conquer it may be challenging, but it's entirely worthwhile as you get to marvel at the panoramic view of Genoa from above. Moreover, visitors to one of the world's tallest lighthouses can also explore the outdoor museum on-site.
1.8. Phare de Gatteville Lighthouse
Situated in Gatteville-le-Phare, France, the Phare de Gatteville (Gatteville Lighthouse), also known as Pointe de Barfleur Lighthouse, was built in the late 17th century and continues to shine to this day. This renowned European lighthouse, crafted from granite, challenges visitors with 365 steps, taking about 10 minutes to ascend to its highest point.
The world's tallest lighthouse in France. Photo: normandie
If you prefer not to climb, you can still capture stunning photos below the lighthouse, as the flat terrain provides a scenic backdrop of the vast seascape and sky, creating an incredibly chill atmosphere.
1.9. Lesnoy Mole Lighthouse
Lesnoy Mole stands out with its red and white hues. Photo: lightphotos
Known for its vibrant red and white design, this may not be the world's tallest lighthouse, but it holds a special place in Saint Petersburg, Russia, serving as a key navigational point. The red light at the lighthouse's highest point flashes every 4 seconds, aiding ships in easily determining their location when entering the Saint Petersburg harbor.
1.10. Moc Lan Dao Lighthouse
Mulantou – Moc Lan Dao Lighthouse. Photo: thetravel
Located in Hainan, Mulantou – Moc Lan Dao is the tallest lighthouse in China. Boasting an impressive height of over 72 meters, built in 1995, Moc Lan Dao features a modern design with its exterior clad in stone, making it stand out, especially when illuminated by the evening sun. The lighthouse emits two beams of light spaced 15 seconds apart, aiding ships and planes in navigating through this area.
2. Tips for photographing with lighthouses
To capture the most beautiful check-in photos with the world's tallest lighthouses, choose daytime moments with ample sunlight, natural light, and a clear blue sky. Alternatively, the enchanting backdrop during sunset will also provide a perfect setting for a mesmerizing check-in shot.
Besides standing below to capture the panoramic view of the lighthouse, you can also stand on the observation deck railing, extending your gaze far and wide to capture a photo with a 'so deep' connection amidst the natural beauty of land and sky.
Moc Nhien
As reported by Vietnam Sports Newspaper
Posted by: Le Yen Mai
Keywords: Admiring breathtaking seascapes from the world's tallest lighthouses
