Port Said Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

Explore the historic Port Said Lighthouse, the world's first reinforced concrete building, and a symbol of maritime history on the Suez Canal.

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The Lighthouse of Port Said

The Port Said Lighthouse, erected in 1869, stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering and a guiding light for ships navigating the Suez Canal. Designed by François Coignet, it was the first building in the world to be constructed using reinforced concrete. Though no longer operational, it remains an iconic symbol of Port Said.

A brief summary to The Lighthouse of Port Said

7877+M93, El Sharq, Port Said Governorate, EG
+201100080890
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Local tips

Visit during the golden hour (sunset) for the most beautiful lighting and photo opportunities.
Combine your visit with a stroll along Palestine Street to experience the local culture and cuisine.
Check local sources for current access to the lighthouse interior, as it may be undergoing renovations.

Getting There

Walking

From most points in central Port Said, the lighthouse is easily accessible by foot. Head towards Palestine Street (Sharia Falastin), the main thoroughfare along the Suez Canal. The lighthouse is located on the eastern side of the street, in the Al Sharq district. Walking from the Suez Canal Authority building takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no specific costs associated with walking.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Port Said and are a convenient way to reach the lighthouse. Most taxi rides within the city center should cost around 3-5 EGP. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings. From the Port Said Bus Station, a taxi ride to the lighthouse will cost approximately 25 EGP.

Discover more about The Lighthouse of Port Said

The Port Said Lighthouse, or فنار بورسعيد القديم in Arabic, is one of the city's most cherished landmarks, offering a glimpse into its rich maritime history. Constructed in 1869 by François Coignet at the request of Khedive Ismail, it guided ships through the newly constructed Suez Canal. Its significance lies not only in its role as a navigational aid but also in its pioneering use of reinforced concrete, a first for any building worldwide. The lighthouse stands 56 meters (184 ft) tall and features an octagonal tower. Originally, a state-of-the-art electric arc lamp provided a consistent flashing light visible for up to 40 km (25 mi). However, due to silt buildup along the coast, the lighthouse is now inland and was deactivated in 1997. Despite no longer serving its original purpose, the lighthouse was registered as a national monument in Egypt in 2011. Today, visitors can admire the lighthouse's architecture and learn about its history. While access to the interior may be limited due to ongoing renovations, the exterior provides ample opportunity for photographs and appreciation of this historical structure. The surrounding area on Palestine Street offers a chance to soak in the local atmosphere, with cafes and shops nearby. The lighthouse serves as a reminder of Port Said's importance as a global trade hub and its unique blend of cultures.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old Historical buildings

0.2 km

Discover Port Said's architectural gems: historic buildings blending Egyptian and European styles, reflecting a vibrant cosmopolitan past.

نافورة المركب الشراعي ، خلف حديقة فريال

0.5 km

نافورة المركب الشراعي: لمسة من الجمال البحري في قلب بورسعيد، تقع خلف حديقة فريال التاريخية.

Ferdinand De Lesseps statue Base قاعدة تمثال فرديناند ديليسبس

0.6 km

Explore the base of the Ferdinand De Lesseps statue in Port Said, a historical landmark with scenic views of the Suez Canal and Mediterranean Sea.

Ferdinand De Lesseps statue Base قاعدة تمثال فرديناند ديليسبس

طرح البحر

0.7 km

Experience the vibrant coastal charm of Port Said at Tarh El-Bahr, a scenic promenade with stunning sea views, dining, and rich history.

ممشى بورسعيد

0.9 km

استمتع بإطلالات قناة السويس الخلابة وأجواء مدينة بورسعيد النابضة بالحياة في ممشى بورسعيد.

obelisque Plaza

0.9 km

A historical landmark in Port Said, Obelisque Plaza commemorates the city's martyrs with a Pharaonic-style obelisk and nearby Military Museum.

Obelisk of Martyrs

0.9 km

A Pharaonic-style obelisk in Port Fouad commemorating the martyrs of Port Said, a place for reflection and remembrance.

ساحه الحمام بور سعيد

1.0 km

Experience the charm of Port Said at ساحة الحمام, a delightful square where thousands of pigeons create a memorable spectacle.

تمثال عبد المنعم رياض

1.0 km

A tribute to an Egyptian hero, the Statue of Abdul Moniem Riad stands as a symbol of courage and sacrifice in the heart of Port Said.

عرب جنوب بورسعيد

1.0 km

Experience the authentic Egyptian culture and vibrant atmosphere of Arab South in Port Said, a hidden gem with stunning landscapes.

شاطئ بورسعيد

1.0 km

استمتع بأشعة الشمس والرمال والمياه في شاطئ بورسعيد، الوجهة المثالية لقضاء عطلة لا تُنسى على ساحل البحر الأبيض المتوسط.

سهل الطين

1.1 km

Discover the serene beauty of Sahl El-Tin in Port Said, a tranquil garden perfect for relaxation and family outings amidst nature's charm.

مزرعه الحاج محمود جربوع

1.1 km

Discover the essence of rural Egypt at Al-Haj Mahmoud Jarboe's Farm in Al Arab, Port Said Governorate - a unique cultural and agricultural experience.

Hassan.elbasiouny

1.1 km

Experience the heart of Port Said by supporting community initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and social welfare.

مكتبة بور سعيد العائمة

1.1 km

Explore a world of knowledge and culture at Port Said's floating library, a unique experience when the Logos Hope docks!

Unmissable attractions to see

ساحة مصر

0.1 km

Discover the beauty and tranquility of Saharet Misr, a serene park in Port Said offering stunning canal views and a taste of local culture.

Elfayrouz reservation

0.1 km

Experience the rich culture and vibrant atmosphere of Elfayrouz, a premier tourist attraction in Port Said, Egypt.

نافورة الدلافين

0.3 km

Experience the charm and cultural richness of Nafoura Al-Dalafin, a stunning gem in Port Said that beautifully showcases Egypt's heritage.

Ferial Garden

0.4 km

Discover the enchanting Ferial Garden in Port Said, a tranquil haven filled with diverse plants, unique decorations, and serene walking paths.

Al Gomhoriah Squar

0.7 km

Discover the vibrant Al Gomhoriah Square in Port Fouad, where culture, community, and stunning architecture converge in a lively atmosphere.

نافورة طيور النورس - ميدان عدلي منصور

0.7 km

Experience the beauty of نافورة طيور النورس - ميدان عدلي منصور in Port Said, a vibrant hub of culture and community attraction in Egypt.