The story of one of the symbols of Licata
Let's dispel a myth right away.
The one in Licata is not, officially, the third tallest lighthouse in Italy.
Its 40 meters of height are in fact surpassed by Genoa (77 metres), the Punta Penna lighthouse (70 metres) and the Vittoria lighthouse in Trieste (68 metres).
The one in Licata however remains one of the highest in Europe, given that it is one of the few whose base is at sea level; in fact, many lighthouses were built on high ground in order to increase their "power".
The light emanating from the Licata lighthouse is visible for 21 nautical miles (about 38 km) even if over the years the intensity has been gradually reduced; partial decommissioning of lighthouses and evolution of navigation systems are the main causes.
However, it remains a point of reference for boats that sail the Mediterranean Sea.
Designed by Antonino Davanteri, it was built in 1895.
It takes the name of the "San Giacomo" lighthouse from the castle of the same name that stood nearby, one of the most important castles in Sicily and (absurdly) destroyed between 1870 and 1929 for the construction of the commercial port. The lighthouse has a very simple structure with a cubic shape and covered in white masonry.
The 40 meters of height are reached with a staircase made up of approximately 170 steps, excluding the external ones.
The lighthouse is a sure symbol of the city, visible not only from the sea; for those arriving from Gela it is one of the first "signs" announcing the imminent arrival in Licata.
As in many other circumstances, that of lighthouses today has a more touristic than functional value.
The San Giacomo lighthouse, especially in recent times, has been opened to the public, enjoying great success.
There are many visitors who have been able to admire its unique "views".
The visits do not have a regular frequency but are organized occasionally.
Source: licatainrete.it