Lighthouses, which have guided mariners for centuries, are not only functional structures; they are also historical monuments that host unique landscapes. Thanks to its geographical location, Turkey has impressive lighthouses on the Black Sea, Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. In this article, we have compiled the most beautiful lighthouses located in different regions of Turkey, which stand out with their historical texture and offer breathtaking views. If you are wondering, “Where are the lighthouses to visit in Turkey?” or “What are the historical lighthouses and their stories in Turkey?”, this list is for you. Let's start exploring Turkey's most special lighthouses!
Discover Turkey’s Most Beautiful Lighthouses with Stunning Views
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1. Cape Yason Lighthouse – Ordu
Situated on Cape Yason between the districts of Fatsa and Perşembe in Ordu, this lighthouse stands in one of the oldest settlements along the Black Sea. The first shipyard on the Black Sea is believed to have been established in this region. There is also a Greek Orthodox church here, which local people rebuilt in 1868. The ruins of this sacred building, dating back 2,700 years, can also be viewed. The area is designated as a first-degree archaeological site and a second-degree natural site.
2. Anadolu Lighthouse – Istanbul
Located on the Anatolian side of the Bosphorus Strait, this historic lighthouse was constructed during the Ottoman period. Anadolu Feneri, part of the Beykoz district, is one of the best spots to enjoy the Bosphorus view in Istanbul. At sunset, the redness of the sky merges with the city lights to create an unforgettable scene.
3. İnceburun Lighthouse – Sinop
Situated 20 km from the city centre of Sinop, at the northernmost point of Turkey, the İnceburun Lighthouse is recognised for its endurance against the rough waters of the Black Sea. Built in 1863 and still operational today, this lighthouse holds a special significance both for its geographical location and its history.
Source: Tripadvisor
4. Kerempe Lighthouse – Kastamonu
Located on Kerempe Burnu, this lighthouse is referenced in Nazım Hikmet's work “Kurtuluş Savaşı Destanı” (The Epic of the War of Independence) as a structure that inspired courage in ammunition-laden ships battling the fierce waves of the Black Sea. The lighthouse is near the Cide district of Kastamonu and frequently features in historical narratives.
5. İğneada Lighthouse – Kırklareli
Situated just 12 kilometres from the Bulgarian border, the İğneada Lighthouse is positioned at the northwestern tip of the Black Sea. While it endures massive waves in winter, it comes alive in summer with the joy of children playing on the beach in front of it. It particularly enchants visitors with its sunrise views.
6. Şile Lighthouse – Istanbul
Constructed in 1856 by order of Sultan Abdülmecid, the Şile Lighthouse is Turkey's largest and longest-range lighthouse. With a range of 60 metres, it continues to guide sailors to this day. The hill on which the lighthouse stands is a popular destination for both local and foreign tourists.
7. Rumeli Lighthouse – Istanbul
Situated in the village of Rumelifeneri in the district of Sarıyer, at the entrance to the Black Sea, the Rumeli Lighthouse is Turkey's tallest lighthouse, standing at 30 metres. It is notable for both its historical and strategic location and is widely recognised among fishermen in the region.
8. Fenerbahçe Lighthouse – Istanbul
Located in the Fenerbahçe neighbourhood of Kadıköy district at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus Strait, this lighthouse is the first maritime lighthouse built during the Ottoman period. It is known to have been constructed following a major maritime accident during the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Although its visibility has diminished due to the modern facilities encircling it today, it has lost none of its grandeur.
9. Ahırkapı Lighthouse – Istanbul
Located on the Sirkeci-Yenikapı coastal road, the Ahırkapı Lighthouse was built in 1755 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Turkey. With a height of 29 metres, it is the second-tallest lighthouse in the country and remains active, witnessing Istanbul's bustling life as the highway passes beneath it.
10. Sivrice Lighthouse – Çanakkale
Situated in the village of Sivrice in the Ayvacık district of Çanakkale, this lighthouse guides ships entering the Gulf of Edremit. Its most notable feature is its status as the world's first and only lighthouse library since 2009. Its collection includes nearly 500 books, stamps, files, and objects.
11. Polente Lighthouse – Çanakkale
Located at the western tip of Bozcaada, the Polente Lighthouse has withstood the island's harsh winds for nearly 150 years. The 17 windmills behind the lighthouse accompany this solitary structure. At sunset, the combination of the windmills and the lighthouse creates a scene reminiscent of a postcard.
12. Sarpıncık Lighthouse – İzmir
Located near the village of Sarpıncık in the Karaburun district, this lighthouse stands at a commanding point overlooking the Aegean Sea, offering a panoramic view extending as far as the islands of Lesbos and Chios. Active for 70 years, the Sarpıncık Lighthouse now operates on solar energy and is particularly popular among photography enthusiasts.
13. Hüseyin Burnu Lighthouse – Muğla
Situated at the western tip of Bodrum, this lighthouse stands out for its proximity to a group of islands off the coast of Güllük Bay. Overlooking Kos Island, Hüseyin Burnu Lighthouse guides sailors at night with its yellow light, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Source: Neredekal
14. Deveboynu Lighthouse – Muğla
Rising above the rocky cliffs at the tip of the Datça Peninsula, this lighthouse is one of the most beautifully situated lighthouses in our country, with the ancient city of Knidos behind it and the sparkling Aegean Sea and Kos Island in front of it. The sunset views it offers are mesmerising.
15. Gelidonya Lighthouse – Antalya
Situated on Gelidonya Cape within the boundaries of Kumluca district, this lighthouse provides one of the most impressive views of the Mediterranean Sea. Standing at a height of 227 metres, Gelidonya Lighthouse is one of the highest sea lighthouses in Turkey. Located on the Lycian Way, the lighthouse is also a popular stop for trekking enthusiasts.
Source: Maya Olympos
16. Bababurnu Lighthouse – Antalya
Located east of Antalya, this lighthouse once stood alone but is now surrounded by buildings. Nevertheless, it draws attention with its location overlooking the Taurus Mountains and the natural beauty of its surroundings. Bababurnu Lighthouse is also renowned as one of the best-maintained lighthouses in Turkey.
17. Alanya Lighthouse – Antalya
Situated within Alanya Castle at the tip of the peninsula, Alanya Lighthouse seems to be hidden among the walls and trees. Standing at 209 metres tall, this structure is the second-tallest lighthouse in the country and remains active due to its historical significance and strategic location.
Source: Summer Homes