About Lighthouse of Chania - The Icon of the City

The Egyptian Lighthouse of Chania is one of the most iconic landmarks in Crete and undeniably the most recognisable symbol of the old Venetian harbour. It is also considered one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, with its unique silhouette standing proudly against the backdrop of the White Mountains and the endless blue of the sea. More than just a tourist attraction, the lighthouse embodies the essence of Chania’s identity.

A Monument with Timeless Presence

The lighthouse of Chania stands at the edge of the harbour’s long breakwater. It is 21 metres tall and has a focal height of 26 metres above sea level. The light is visible from seven nautical miles (approximately 13 kilometres).

Architecturally, the lighthouse of Chania is composed of three distinct sections: an octagonal base, a hexadecagonal middle section, and a circular top. Inside, a spiral stone staircase ascends to the glass lantern at the top.

From the Venetians to the Egyptians

The Venetians built the lighthouse between 1595 and 1601 as part of the port’s fortifications in response to the increasing threat from the Ottoman Empire. The entire harbour, including the lighthouse, was constructed using sandstone quarried from Stavros, a coastal area located to the northeast.

During the Ottoman occupation of Crete (1645–1830), the authorities largely neglected the port, and over time, the lighthouse deteriorated due to abandonment and poor maintenance.

1830, after the Treaty of London, Crete was temporarily handed over to Mohamed Ali of Egypt as a gesture of gratitude for his role in crushing the Greek uprising in 1821. The rule change signalled a new era for the port and its lighthouse.

Rebirth of the Egyptian Lighthouse

In 1838, under the direction of Mustapha Pasha, the lighthouse was rebuilt on its original Venetian base. Islamic architecture heavily influenced its new form, resembling a minaret externally and in its interior stone staircase.

In 1853, the Egyptian administration installed a reflector to enhance visibility. A decade later, in 1864, the lighthouse was placed under the control of the French Company of Ottoman Lighthouses.

World War II and Postwar Challenges

During World War II, the lighthouse of Chania was once again damaged. German forces destroyed its lighting mechanism in 1941, but Greek authorities repaired it and brought it back into use by 1945.

In 1962, a significant incident occurred when the cargo ship “Afovos” collided with the northwest corner of the lighthouse base, causing structural damage to its stone foundation.

Following the collision, a significant debate emerged: should the damaged lighthouse be torn down and rebuilt, or should efforts focus on its preservation and restoration?

Between 1968 and 1970, as part of the restoration works, the Greek Ministry of Culture added a metal framework to reinforce the upper section of the lighthouse. However, over time, the structure began to deteriorate due to corrosion, resulting in a slight tilt at the top.

As a result, a significant renovation project took place between 2003 and 2006, which restored the lighthouse to its current form and ensured its long-term preservation.

Visiting the Chania Lighthouse

Reaching the lighthouse is a small adventure in itself. Visitors must walk the entire length of the Venetian breakwater, starting from the entrance of the old harbour. After passing the bastion of Saint Nicholas of the Mole, the path continues over uneven rocks, requiring caution, especially in windy or wet weather.

The total distance from the start of the breakwater to the lighthouse is about 600 metres, and the walk takes roughly 8 to 10 minutes.

Because local authorities have not installed lighting along the breakwater, walking there after dark is not advisable.

Unfortunately, due to the terrain, visitors with mobility difficulties cannot access the lighthouse. Moreover, entry inside the lighthouse itself is strictly prohibited

A Must-See in Chania

The Lighthouse of Chania is a photo opportunity and a living monument connecting the island’s Venetian, Ottoman, and Egyptian past. Whether you view it from the waterfront cafés of the old town or stand at its base, the experience is unforgettable.

Its architectural beauty, historic significance, and dramatic setting have made it one of the top Chania tourist attractions—and a true must-see.

Don’t leave Chania without walking the breakwater and admiring this majestic landmark up close. It’s more than a lighthouse – a journey through centuries of history, carved in stone and shaped by sea winds

Take a look at Municipality of Chania – Historical sites & Landmarks – Wikipedia.

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Glyn Shaw
2 weeks ago

Very picturesque. Lovely bay with lots of seafront tavernas. The town was very busy with tourists, just before noon. It put me in mind of the port area at Dubrovnik after the liners have all docked.
Banjong Strandman
a week ago

So beautiful couture and so amazing old town so many ruins of many history . Lighthouse the best early morning for visit , it so hot on stone road 12-15:00
Edmark Policarpio Pineda
a week ago

Stunning lighthouse. Very picturesque. And nice place to view the harbour. Love it!
Mark Carlton
2 weeks ago

Worth the hike out to the lighthouse. Although you cannot get into the lighthouse, the walk along the wall makes up for it. Great way to walk your lunch off . A must do in Chania , the views are great
Anastasiia R
a month ago

Very nice view on the Venetian harbour and sea on the other side . Just you have to walk from harbour approximately 20 minutes to reach the building of lighthouse but it worthy.

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Lighthouse of Chania

About Lighthouse of Chania - The Icon of the City

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Google Reviews

Glyn Shaw

Banjong Strandman

Edmark Policarpio Pineda

Mark Carlton

Anastasiia R