Lighthouses

Lighthouses on Crete are not only important nautical landmarks, but also fascinating historical structures and popular tourist attractions. The island of Crete has a large number of impressive lighthouses, some of which are still in operation, while others can be visited today as ruins or restored monuments.

Particularly well-known is the Venetian lighthouse in the harbour of Chania, which is one of the oldest lighthouses in the Mediterranean and is considered the city's landmark. The lighthouse of Rethymnon and the remote lighthouse at Cape Sideros in eastern Crete are also worth seeing.

Many of the lighthouses are located in scenic spots on the island, such as on capes, rocky coasts or in small harbour towns.

They offer magnificent views of the sea and are particularly worth visiting at sunset. A visit to these maritime structures is ideal for individual travellers, photographers and anyone who wants to discover Crete away from the classic sights.

Some lighthouses, such as the one on the island of Gavdos south of Crete, even have symbolic significance, as they mark geographical extremes. If you love lighthouses, Crete offers an exciting mix of history, nature and maritime flair.

In our overview, we show you the most important lighthouses in Crete.

• Chania Lighthouse (Venetian Lighthouse)
  – one of the oldest lighthouses in the Mediterranean, originally built in the 16th century, landmark of the port of Chania.
   
• Rethymnon Lighthouse
  – Venetian origin, later rebuilt by the Egyptians, striking landmark of the old town.
   
• Akrotiri Lighthouse (Cape Spatha)
  – northwest of Chania, built in 1864, active again.
   
• Gavdos Lighthouse (Cape Tripiti)
  – Southernmost light source in Europe, on the small island of Gavdos off southern Crete.
   
• Lighthouse at Cape Sideros (northeast, near Vai)
  – Difficult to access, but steeped in history and still in operation.

• Elafonissi Lighthouse (Cape Krios)
  – in southwestern Crete, historically significant, currently inactive.
   
• Kaloi Limenes Lighthouse
  – south of Heraklion, near the town of the same name, operational.
   
• Lighthouse at Cape Lithino (near Matala)
  – in Messara Bay, little known but still standing.
   
• Cape Drepano Lighthouse (near Kokkino Chorio, Apokoronas)
  – overlooking Souda Bay.
   
• Spinalonga Lighthouse
  – on the former island colony (no longer active, but ruins visible).
   

Overview of lighthouses on Crete with coordinates (PDF approx. 3.14 KB)