Lighthouse of Cefalù

The Capo Cefalù Lighthouse (Faro di Capo Cefalù) sits on a rocky headland right beneath La Rocca, the steep limestone ridge that rises over 280 metres above Cefalù on Sicily's Tyrrhenian coast. The draw here isn't the tower itself so much as its setting, perched above the sea with the old town spread out below the cliff.

How do you get to the lighthouse?

The lighthouse stands on the Capo Cefalù promontory, at the eastern edge of town. It's reached on foot along a coastal path, which is the best way to take in both the sea views and the rising bulk of La Rocca along the way. Wear sturdy shoes, since the ground is rocky and uneven in places.

What does the lighthouse look like?

The lighthouse was built in 1900, and its light was electrified in 1930. The octagonal tower, topped with a balcony and lantern, stands roughly 8 metres tall and rises from a two-storey building that once housed the lighthouse keepers. The tower itself is left in bare, unpainted masonry, while the lantern has a white housing under a grey metal dome.

The light sits 80 metres above sea level and shows a single white flash every 5 seconds, visible from up to 25 nautical miles away. The lighthouse is fully automated today and is operated by the Italian Navy (Marina Militare), which lists it under the identification number 3261 E.F.

What else is there to see nearby?

The setting is the main attraction: the headland sits almost directly beneath La Rocca, the rocky ridge that dominates Cefalù's skyline and is a popular hiking destination in its own right. From the viewpoint by the lighthouse, you get open views across the Tyrrhenian coastline and down onto the old town's rooftops. It's a good spot for sunset photos, weather and light permitting.

When is the best time to visit?

Early morning or late afternoon works best, when the sun isn't directly overhead — the coastal path is far more pleasant then, and the views of the lighthouse and sea are clearer. This is a working navigational light, not a museum, so there's no interior to visit; the appeal is the exterior and the surrounding scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside the lighthouse? No. The Capo Cefalù Lighthouse is an active, automated navigation aid run by the Marina Militare, and it isn't open to the public for interior visits.

When was the lighthouse built? It was built in 1900, and its light was electrified in 1930.

How far can the light be seen? The light, mounted 80 metres above sea level, is visible from up to 25 nautical miles out at sea.

What's near the lighthouse? The lighthouse stands at the foot of La Rocca, the rocky hill towering over Cefalù, with views over the town and the Tyrrhenian coast.