Akrotiri Lighthouse Tainaro
Description
The Aged Guard of Cape Matapas with Historic Architecture and Nautical Intelligence
The Lighthouse of Cape Tainaro(or Matapas Lighthouse) is one of the most imposing, historical and timeless monuments of Greek maritime history. It is located at the southernmost tip of mainland Greece and Eastern Europe in Mani. It occupies a steep, natural plateau of rocks at an altitude of 40-50 meters above sea level, "spearing" the point where the dangerous sea currents of the Mediterranean meet. Its great advantage is that it is one of the most emblematic stone-built lighthouses of the Greek network, having been built in 1882 by a French Company and starting its operation in 1887 to safely guide ships through one of the most difficult passages of our seas.
- Fortification type: An authentic, rectangular stone building (dimensions 14x19 meters) with absolute symmetry, designed to withstand the most extreme and adverse weather conditions of the sea. In the middle of its southern side is built a strong square tower 16 meters high, which is crowned by the lighting mechanism. The building stands out for its construction structure with well-worked corner stones, marble in the arched window openings and a perimeter parapet.
- Suitable for: Nature lovers, hikers, nautical history buffs and travelers seeking the feeling of being at the "edge of the world". The site is renowned for its historical and functional ingenuity. During World War II it suffered serious damage from the occupying forces, but was fully reconstructed post-war. In 1982 it was converted into an automatic solar lighthouse, while in 2008 it was restored to its original form at the sole expense of the Aikaterini Laskaridis Foundation.
- Infrastructure: The lighthouse belongs to the network of the Hellenic Navy Lighthouse Service. Its interior is not open to the public, but the external surrounding area with the stone plateau is free and accessible 24 hours a day. It offers a breathtaking, 360-degree panoramic view of Myrtoo and the Ionian Sea, while the basic tourist infrastructure (taverns and parking lots) is located at the starting point of the trail, in the settlement of Kokkinogeia.
- Access: Requires a beautiful and accessible hiking trail. After leaving your vehicle at the parking lot at Kokkinogeia (about 40 minutes from Areopoli), follow the marked rocky path. The hike takes about 45 to 50 minutes (about 2 kilometers). Due to the uneven terrain and the lack of shade, it is necessary to wear closed-toe sports or hiking shoes, as well as carry water.
Information