The best known lighthouse in Gran Canaria, a unique place to enjoy the impressive landscape and the good atmosphere of the south of the island has generated a lot of activity around it thanks to the impressive sunsets that are contemplated from there. The lighthouses have always been mentioned in Homer's Iliad and there are many stories and legends that have been created around these buildings and their inhabitants. Before GPS was incorporated into navigation, maritime signals were essential to prevent accidents and guide navigation. The lonely job of the lighthouse keeper has been an inspiration for countless legends of overseas guardians. Its light guides sailors for over 100 years and the 58 meters high make it a striking monument. It is one of the symbols of Gran Canaria and has been recognized as a Cultural Interest monument. It is also the third tallest lighthouse in Spanish territory.

The Faro de Maspalomas went into operation on February 1, 1980, in a strategic place in the south of the island. Its structure next to the Dunes of Maspalomas has become an icon of the island, the icon that serves to recognize the Maspalomas Costa Canaria brand.

History of Maspalomas Lighthouse

Like most lighthouses, the Maspalomas lighthouse was conceived as a set formed by the lighthouse tower and the torrero house. The house of the torrero is rectangular, inspired by the typical Canarian patio, a local architectural feature. It is attached to the lighthouse tower and adds strength to counteract the tower's thrusts in the event of inclement weather. Faro de Maspalomas was born so that steamboats arriving from Africa and America could stop and have a goos view of the coastline.

Visit to the Faro de Maspalomas

The lighthouse reopened to the public in February 2019, arousing great interest as it had been closed for 10 years. Everyday objects of artisan crafts are exhibited at the Maspalomas lighthouse while the project is finished to create a museum. Both touristsand inhabitants of the island, visit the lighthouse frequently for the peace that emanates from the immensity of the sea. Some prefer the day visit but others at night, because of the lighting. Spend a day at the beach or rest by the lighthouse at theend of a walk through the natural park and the lagoon.