Kelibia Lighthouse (Phare de Kelibia) | Kelibia

Information

Landmark: Kelibia Lighthouse (Phare de Kelibia)
City: Kelibia
Country: Tunisia
Continent: Africa

Kelibia Lighthouse (Phare de Kelibia), Kelibia, Tunisia, Africa

The Kelibia Lighthouse, also known as Phare de Kelibia, is a maritime navigation aid situated on the northeastern coast of Tunisia, near the city of Kelibia.

Visual Characteristics

The lighthouse structure is a cylindrical tower constructed from white-painted concrete. It stands approximately 60 meters (197 feet) above sea level. The lantern room is topped with a red conical roof. The base of the tower is surrounded by a low, white-painted wall.

Location & Access Logistics

The lighthouse is located on a promontory approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) east of the center of Kelibia. Access is via a paved road, Route du Phare, which branches off from the main coastal road (RN 9). Parking is available at the base of the lighthouse. Public transport to Kelibia is available via bus from Tunis and other major cities; local taxis can then be hired to reach the lighthouse.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The current lighthouse was constructed in 1895 by the French colonial administration. Its purpose is to guide maritime traffic along the Cap Bon peninsula. The promontory itself is composed of limestone bedrock, a geological formation characteristic of the region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of the lighthouse structure and its operational light. Photography of the coastal landscape. Walking along the coastal paths surrounding the promontory.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no public restrooms or food vendors directly at the lighthouse. Shade is limited to the immediate vicinity of the base wall. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon provides favorable lighting conditions. The months of April to June and September to October offer the most pleasant weather, with lower humidity and moderate temperatures. The lighthouse operates continuously, so tide times are not a factor for viewing.

Facts & Legends

The promontory on which the lighthouse stands is known locally as Ras el-Maa, meaning "Head of the Water." It is said that ancient mariners used this point as a significant navigational marker long before the construction of the modern lighthouse.