The Lighthouse of Port Said: A Guiding Light Through History

Explore the historic Port Said Lighthouse, a 19th-century architectural marvel and a symbol of Egypt's maritime heritage.

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The Lighthouse of Port Said

The Port Said Lighthouse, a historical landmark in Egypt, stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering and the strategic importance of the Suez Canal. Built in 1869, it was designed by François Coignet and is considered the first building in the world to be made of reinforced concrete. Though no longer operational since 1997, it remains an iconic symbol of the city.

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 (sunrise or sunset) for stunning photo opportunities with the warm light enhancing the lighthouse's beauty.
Take a stroll along Palestine Street to view the lighthouse from the east, or Memphis Street from the west, for different perspectives.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like the Suez Canal Authority Building or the Port Said Military Museum to explore more of the city's history.

Getting There

Walking

From most points in central Port Said, the lighthouse is accessible by walking. From the Port Said train station, head east on Mustafa Kamal Street, then turn left onto Palestine Street. Continue north; the lighthouse will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. There are many shops and cafes along the way.
Public Transport

Local microbuses are a cost-effective way to reach the lighthouse from further points in Port Said. Look for microbuses heading north along Palestine Street (Sharia Falastin). The fare is typically around E£0.50. Ask the driver to stop near the 'Fanar' (lighthouse).
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Port Said. A short taxi ride from the Port Said train station or other central locations to the lighthouse should cost approximately E£3-5. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about The Lighthouse of Port Said

The Port Said Lighthouse is more than just a structure; it's a symbol of Port Said's rich maritime history and a pioneering feat of engineering. Constructed in 1869, just before the inauguration of the Suez Canal, the lighthouse was designed by French engineer François Coignet. Its purpose was to guide ships safely through the newly constructed canal, serving as a crucial navigational aid for over a century. The lighthouse holds the distinction of being the first building in the world to be constructed using reinforced concrete, a novel technique at the time. This innovative approach was chosen due to the lack of readily available stone quarries and the high cost of importing stone. The structure is an octagonal tower, rising to a height of 56 meters (184 ft). While the lighthouse ceased operations in 1997 due to silt buildup along the coast, it remains a prominent landmark and a reminder of Port Said's significance in global trade and navigation. In 2011, it was officially registered as a national monument in Egypt. Today, visitors can admire its architecture, learn about its history, and appreciate its role in shaping Port Said into the vibrant port city it is today.

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.