Punta Penna Lighthouse

Punta Penna Lighthouse is one of the tallest lighthouses in Italy, standing on a rocky headland by the port of Vasto in the Abruzzo region. This active lighthouse reaches a height of 70 metres, making it the eighth tallest traditional lighthouse in the world and the second tallest in Italy, surpassed only by the Lantern of Genoa. It stands on Via Madonna della Penna, at a strategically important spot guarding the entrance to the port of Vasto.

Where is it located?

The lighthouse sits on the Adriatic coast, on the Punta Penna headland that juts out into the sea right beside the port of Vasto. Its coordinates place it at roughly 42.171°N, 14.715°E, on one of the more distinctive stretches of coastline in central Abruzzo. The headland itself has long served as a natural landmark for ships and fishermen navigating this part of the Adriatic.

How do you get there?

Punta Penna falls within the municipal boundaries of Vasto, a port town that is easy to reach from the main roads running along the Abruzzo coast. Vasto is a popular base for exploring central Italy's Adriatic shoreline, and the lighthouse itself stands right next to the harbour, making it an easy short walk or drive from the town centre.

What can you see there?

The main draw here is simply the lighthouse itself — its striking height makes it visible from a considerable distance, and the tall white tower stands out sharply against the blue of the Adriatic and the rocky edge of the headland. It's the kind of structure that instantly conjures the classic image of an Italian lighthouse watching over a harbour entrance. It's also worth taking in the surroundings from a bit further away: the Punta Penna headland offers a natural vantage point over the coastline and the ship traffic moving in and out of Vasto's port.

When is the best time to visit?

The lighthouse can be seen year-round, but spring and early autumn tend to offer the best conditions for viewing and photography, with softer light than in the height of summer and fewer crowds along the coast. Sunset over the Adriatic near the headland can be particularly striking, with the white tower silhouetted against the glowing sky.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Punta Penna Lighthouse? It stands 70 metres tall, making it the eighth tallest traditional lighthouse in the world.

Is it the tallest lighthouse in Italy? No — it ranks second in the country, behind only the Lantern of Genoa.

Where exactly does the lighthouse stand? On Via Madonna della Penna, on the Punta Penna headland at the port of Vasto, in the Abruzzo region.

Is the lighthouse still in operation? Yes, Punta Penna is an active lighthouse that continues to support navigation at the entrance to Vasto's port.