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In The Photos of the Readers of La Vanguardia we can see how the lighthouse of Vilanova i la Geltrú, the Lighthouse of Sant Cristòfol, continues to light up at night to guide navigators.
But, the popular Farola is much more, as it houses the Espai FAR, a museum equipment that shows the rich maritime heritage of Vilanova.
It has three spaces with permanent exhibitions: the Vilanova i la Geltrú Sea Museum, the Víctor Rojas Space and the Roig Toqués Marine Curiosities Museum, which places special emphasis on its famous Carpa Juanita.
The first maritime signal was installed in Vilanova in 1834, but it was very limited in height and light projection. In 1865, the first lighthouse and a house for the lighthouse keeper were installed. It lasted until 1905, when it was demolished, and the current Lighthouse was built, which was lit on May 1 of that same year. The operation of the lighthouse was only interrupted during the Civil War.
La Farola has a height of 21 meters, with a spiral staircase of 98 steps. The reflective focus is composed of three optical complexes, to which a clockwork machine gives a rotary movement. The Lighthouse delivers its message with a group of three white lightning bolts every 8 seconds and has a nominal range of 19 miles (35,188 km).
In the months of July and August, the Espai FAR is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free every first Sunday of the month.
