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Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse
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Landmark
The Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse, inaugurated on January 24, 1857, is an iconic landmark in the city's historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its construction was ordered following the shipwreck of the vessel 'L'Aigle' in the Río de la Plata in 1855. The tower itself stands 34 meters tall and was built upon the ruins of the old Convent of San Francisco Javier, whose remains can still be seen at its base. Its architecture is a blend of Portuguese and Spanish styles, reflecting the city's turbulent history. The lighthouse's light signal, a white flash every nine seconds, has a range of 7.8 nautical miles and continues to serve as a crucial navigational aid at the mouth of the Río de la Plata. Visitors can climb the 118 steps to the top to enjoy a panoramic view of the historic town, the river, and on clear days, even the skyline of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Its robust, whitewashed cylindrical structure makes it one of the most photographed spots in Uruguay.
- Location: Uruguay
- Top sights: Tile Space · Galeria de los suspiros · lacasa galería
- Nearby: Tarariras (29 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 24 | 22 | 19 | 15 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 17 | 21 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 105 | 122 | 123 | 98 | 74 | 54 | 72 | 71 | 83 | 109 | 101 | 94 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The lighthouse is located in the historic quarter of Colonia del Sacramento and can be viewed from the outside. The interior is occasionally open to visitors but not always accessible.
Typical hours
The exterior is accessible at any time, while the interior is usually open during the museum or adjacent convent hours. Visiting times typically run from morning until late afternoon.
Photography
Photography from outside is allowed at any time, with a particularly pleasant view from the square in front. Inside, photography is usually permitted, but flash should be avoided.
Time needed
A quick walk around the lighthouse and ruins takes 20 to 30 minutes. If you also go inside, allow 45 minutes.
Combine with
The lighthouse is in the heart of Colonia’s historic center, which provides many other sights. Combine your visit with a walk through the old town and along the harbor promenade.
Getting there
The historic quarter is mostly car-free, so the lighthouse is best reached on foot. Parking is available at the edge of the old town, just a few minutes' walk away.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the lighthouse without crowds and to take advantage of the soft light. From the upper level, you get a great view of the Río de la Plata.
Geography
Facts
- Inaugurated in the year 1857.
- The tower stands 34 meters tall.
- Built on the ruins of the San Francisco Javier Convent.
- Its light has a range of 7.8 nautical miles.
- The light signal is one white flash every 9 seconds.
- There are 118 steps to the observation deck.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you climb the lighthouse?
Yes, the Faro de Colonia is open to visitors and has a great view.
What are the opening hours?
It is usually open during the day, but may vary by season.
Is there an entry fee for climbing?
Yes, a small fee is charged for admission to climb.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, climbing is safe, but requires parental supervision for young children.
Is the lighthouse wheelchair accessible?
No, climbing is via a narrow spiral staircase and is not wheelchair accessible.
Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse: where is it located?
Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse is located in Uruguay.
Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tile Space, Galeria de los suspiros, lacasa galería.
Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Nov, Dec.
Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?
The Colonia del Sacramento Lighthouse, inaugurated on January 24, 1857, is an iconic landmark in the city's historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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