Capo Mele Lighthouse

Capo Mele Lighthouse stands on a rocky headland between Andora and Laigueglia, on the boundary of the two coastal towns in the province of Savona, in western Liguria. Geographers mark this exact point as the western edge of the Gulf of Genoa, which explains why the lighthouse has guided ships along this stretch of the Ligurian Riviera since the mid-19th century.

When was the lighthouse built?

The tower was raised between 1852 and 1856 by the Royal Corps of Civil Engineers of Genoa, under the reign of Victor Emmanuel II, as part of a broader lighting scheme for the Ligurian coast that had first been outlined during the Napoleonic era. Over the following decades the light source changed several times: petroleum fuelled it until 1909, then acetylene took over until 1936. The structure suffered heavy damage during the Second World War and was rebuilt between 1947 and 1948. Electrification followed in 1949, after which the lighthouse was reclassified as an aero-maritime beacon.

What will you see there?

The tower is a round masonry structure 25 metres tall, with a diameter of 3.82 metres at lantern level. Its original twelve-sided lantern room, glazed with three tiers of flat glass panes, is reached by a 74-step staircase. A three-storey brick building next to the tower once housed the keepers. The light itself flashes three times in white every 15 seconds, a signal visible far out at sea.

Can you go inside?

Capo Mele Lighthouse is still active and operated by the Italian Navy, under the Lighthouse Zone Command based in La Spezia. As a military-run facility, the interior is not open for casual visits. The headland itself, however, is freely accessible and popular as a viewpoint over the coast between Andora and Laigueglia, with wide views across the Ligurian Riviera and open sea. For most visitors, the lighthouse's silhouette against the rocks and water is reason enough to make the trip.

When should you visit?

Capo Mele is an easy walking or cycling destination from the centres of both Andora and Laigueglia, making it a natural stop on a coastal afternoon out. Late afternoon and early evening offer the best light, with the sun setting over the water just as the beacon starts flashing. Combine the visit with a stroll through Andora itself and along the seafront promenade toward Laigueglia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Capo Mele Lighthouse located? On the Capo Mele headland, on the border between Andora and Laigueglia, in the province of Savona, Liguria.

When was the lighthouse built? It was constructed between 1852 and 1856, during the reign of Victor Emmanuel II.

How tall is the tower? The tower is 25 metres high and is reached by a 74-step staircase.

Is the inside of the lighthouse open to visitors? No — it is an active facility run by the Italian Navy, so the interior is closed to the public, though the surrounding headland is freely accessible.