The Cape Spartel Lighthouse stands on the headland at the north-western tip of Africa and dates from 1864. Its construction was driven by foreign shipping powers that needed a reliable light at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, and it was run under the Cape Spartel Convention of 1865 by an international committee including the consuls of several nations in Tangier. The arrangement is an example of the international co-operation that later led to the Tangier International Zone. The light still guides ships between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Visitors are not usually admitted to the compound but can walk the headland, look at the white tower and see the sea stretch toward Spain.
| Admission | Adult Free for viewpoints · Child Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | The lighthouse compound is closed to the public; viewpoints open in daylight |
| Address | Route de Cap Spartel, Tangier 90000 |
Why it matters
It shows the international maritime interest in the Strait that shaped Tangier's diplomatic status.
Location
Route de Cap Spartel, Tangier 90000
35.7916, -5.9239 View on map
Highlights
- Lighthouse completed in 1864
- Cape Spartel Convention of 1865
- Headland views
- Link to the later International Zone
Tips for visiting
- Go on a clear morning.
- Bring a windbreaker.
- Take a taxi with waiting time.
- Combine with the Caves of Hercules.
- Respect the fence around the compound.
When to visit
Clear morning.
Frequently asked questions
Can I climb the lighthouse?
The compound is generally closed to visitors.
Why is it historically important?
It was run by an international committee under the Convention of 1865, an early model of foreign co-operation at Tangier.