In Madeira Archipelago there are 13 major lighthouses, 7 in Madeira island, 2 in Porto Santo, 2 in Desertas islands and 2 in Selvagens islands.

The first lighthouse established in Madeira is the one in Ponta de São Lourenço, at the top of the islet. With a 10 meters high tower, its construction begun in 1867 and ended in 1870. Since 1983 this lighthouse does not need anyone full-time, as it is remotely controlled and since 2000 it is powered by solar power and its light can reach 20 miles distance.

The São Lourenço lighthouse is considered Cultural Heritage by the Portuguese Navy.

Photo by Hugo Romano