Senhora da Agonia Lighthouse

Senhora da Agonia Lighthouse (Farol da Senhora da Agonia) is a working navigation light in Viana do Castelo, northern Portugal, guarding the mouth of the River Lima. It sits in the Monserrate parish beside the tower of the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Agonia, on high ground overlooking the town and its harbour.

What kind of lighthouse is it?

The light was first lit in 1888 and has guided vessels into Viana do Castelo's port ever since. The tower is a red cylinder with white trim around the openings and a lantern on top. It shows a red occulting light, on for four seconds and off for two, with a range of about 5 nautical miles. It is still active and is run by the Direcção de Faróis, the Portuguese Navy's lighthouse service. The focal height is roughly 33 m above sea level, so it is visible from the lower town and the river mouth.

Where exactly is it?

The coordinates are about 41.693° N, 8.838° W. The lighthouse stands next to the chapel, around 550 m from the town's other light, Farol do Castelo de Santiago, which sits closer to the harbour entrance. From the surroundings you look over the Lima, the fishing and leisure harbour, and the Atlantic.

Can you go inside?

No. Visitors can only reach the grounds around the lighthouse. Treat it as a short photo stop with views rather than a tower you can climb.

What else is nearby?

The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Agonia ties in with Viana do Castelo's biggest celebration, the Romaria da Senhora da Agonia. It takes place in mid-August and brings processions, flower carpets, traditional costumes and parades. Check the dates before booking a room, since the town fills up. In the centre you will find the old town, and on Santa Luzia hill the Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, reached by funicular.

When should you go?

You can see the lighthouse all year, as the grounds are open to everyone. Evening gives the best photo light, and after dark you can watch the red signal. August brings the festival atmosphere, but also crowds and higher prices.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Senhora da Agonia lighthouse still in operation? Yes. It has been an active aid to navigation since 1888.

Can I climb the tower? No, only the area around the lighthouse is open to visitors.

What light does it show? A red light on a six-second cycle: four seconds lit, two seconds dark.

Does Viana do Castelo have another lighthouse? Yes. Farol do Castelo de Santiago stands about 550 m away, nearer to the river mouth.