PAST AND PRESENT: Gibraltar Lighthouse

by RYAN ASQUEZ
The Lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks in Gibraltar, a picture-perfect site which commands the attention of tourists and locals alike.

It is also a defining feature of Europa Point, so much so that the local name for the structure – ‘la Farola’ – has come to be synonymous with the whole area itself.
OUR LADY OF EUROPE
This is not the first lighthouse at Europa Point. During the Spanish period (1462-1704), a light was kept at the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe (then known as la Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Europa). This was likely fuelled by oil, and seafarers would often venerate Our Lady of Europe at the Shrine and leave gifts such as oil and lamps. It is also known that passing ships would pay homage to Our Lady by firing salvoes; there was a small gun at the Shrine where an attendant would respond in kind.

MORE IN PANORAMA PRINT EDITION

22-02-22 PANORAMAdailyGIBRALTAR