The Lighthouse of Port Said: A Guiding Light Through History

Explore the historical Port Said Lighthouse, a 19th-century architectural marvel and a symbol of the city's maritime past and engineering innovation.

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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 city's maritime heritage. Designed by François Coignet and completed in 1869, it was one of the first buildings in the world to utilize reinforced concrete. Though no longer operational since 1997, it remains an iconic symbol of Port Said and a reminder of the city's importance to the Suez Canal.

A brief summary to The Lighthouse of Port Said

7877+M96, El Sharq, Port Said Governorate, EG
+201100080890
Visit website

Local tips

Visit during the golden hour for stunning photos as the setting sun casts a warm glow on the lighthouse.
Take a stroll around the surrounding area to soak in the local culture and vibrant atmosphere of Port Said.
Combine your visit with a trip to other nearby attractions like the Suez Canal Authority Building or the Port Said National Museum.

Getting There

Walking

The Port Said Lighthouse is located in El Sharq, easily accessible from most parts of central Port Said. From Palestine Street (Sharia Falastin), head east; the lighthouse will be visible. It's a short walk from landmarks like the Suez Canal Authority Building. There are no entrance fees to reach the lighthouse's perimeter.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Port Said and are a convenient way to reach the lighthouse. A short taxi ride from the Port Said train station or the bus station to the lighthouse area will typically cost around 3-5 EGP. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings.

Discover more about The Lighthouse of Port Said

The Port Said Lighthouse, or فنار بورسعيد القديم, is more than just a historical landmark; 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, who chose to use reinforced concrete, an innovative technique at the time, due to the lack of local stone. This octagonal tower, standing 56 meters (184 feet) high, guided ships through the newly constructed Suez Canal, marking Port Said as a vital international trade hub. For over a century, the lighthouse faithfully served its purpose, guiding countless ships through the canal. However, as silt built up along the coast, the lighthouse found itself inland, rendering it obsolete. It ceased operations in 1997, but its legacy remains. In 2011, it was registered as a national monument in Egypt, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Today, visitors can admire this historical structure and reflect on its significance. While the lighthouse is often fenced off, its elegant design and historical importance make it a worthwhile stop for any traveler exploring Port Said. The surrounding area offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant atmosphere, with local vendors and cafes adding to the experience. A comprehensive plan was launched in April 2025 to develop the lighthouse and the surrounding area, focusing on preserving its historical architectural character and improving the infrastructure.

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

0.3 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.