Forte do Cavalo Lighthouse

Forte do Cavalo Lighthouse stands on the western edge of Sesimbra, inside a 17th-century fort on a hill above the bay. The tower is modest, only 7 metres tall, but its light sits 35 metres above the sea and has been guiding ships since the 1890s.

What is Forte do Cavalo?

The name covers both the fort and the lighthouse built inside it. Formally the fortress is the Fort of São Teodósio da Ponta do Cavalo, named after Prince Teodósio, heir to the Portuguese crown. Locals shortened it to Forte do Cavalo, after the nearby beach and stream. It lies in the Setúbal District, on the Cerro da Assenta rise at the western end of Sesimbra Bay.

How was the fort built?

Work ran from 1648 to 1652 on the orders of King John IV, during the war to restore Portuguese independence from Spain. The military engineer Sebastião Pereira de Frias is credited with the design. The fort strengthened the defence of Setúbal and formed part of a coastal line stretching from Albarquel to Sesimbra. The 1755 earthquake damaged it badly, yet it stayed strategically useful. It remained in military use until 1834.

When did the light start working?

In 1895 part of the fort was converted for navigation, with work beginning that November. The lamp was first lit on 15 September 1896, showing a fixed red light. It was switched off between 1916 and 1918 because of the First World War. In 1927 the signal changed to a fixed white light with regular occultations. The station was later automated and now uses an LED optic with a range of 14 nautical miles. The Portuguese Navy looks after the site, and it is classed as Immovable Cultural Heritage of Public Interest.

What else is nearby?

Sesimbra is a fishing town on the coast of the Setúbal District, so the lighthouse fits easily into a walk around the bay and its beaches, including Cavalo beach, which gave the fort its everyday name. The hilltop gives a view over the bay and the coastline. Look for the small tower set into the walls of the old battery.

When should you go?

The lighthouse can be seen all year, and the surroundings are most pleasant in daylight with good visibility. After dusk you can watch the light at work. Sesimbra is liveliest in summer and calmer in spring and autumn.

Frequently asked questions

Is Forte do Cavalo a fort or a lighthouse?

Both. The fort of São Teodósio da Ponta do Cavalo dates from the 17th century, and the lighthouse was built into its old high battery in the late 19th century.

How tall is the lighthouse?

The tower is 7 metres tall, and the light is at a focal height of 35 metres above sea level.

Who runs the lighthouse?

The Portuguese Navy, which has administered it since the site was converted.

When did the lighthouse begin operating?

On 15 September 1896, with a fixed red light. Today it shines white through an LED optic.