Kranai Lighthouse

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Gythio’s Iconic Lighthouse with a Legendary Past

The Kranai Lighthouse, a striking 22-meter (72 ft) octagonal tower built from Tainaro marble, has stood at the edge of Kranai islet since 1859. According to legend, this is the place where Paris and Helen of Troy spent their final night in Greece before setting sail for Troy.

Originally powered by kerosene, the lighthouse was deactivated during World War II, like most lighthouses in Greece, and was restored in 1945 as part of the country’s maritime network reorganization. Until 2002, it operated with an acetylene beacon, flashing three white signals every 18 seconds, with a range of 9 nautical miles. It was later automated and converted to solar power, and since 2004, it has been a monitored lighthouse.

The lighthouse complex includes a single-story keeper’s residence featuring a living room, two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a bathroom. The circular tower, with a diameter of 1.6 meters (5.2 ft) and a focal height of 25 meters (82 ft), houses a spiral staircase of 93 wedge-shaped marble steps leading to the lantern room.

Located just 500 meters (0.3 miles) from the port of Gythio, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the town and the Laconian Gulf. Though not open to the public, it remains a popular photography spot. The site is well-maintained and houses the Mani Naval Museum, established in 2004, showcasing maritime artifacts and the region’s rich seafaring history. The surrounding area has also been developed with outdoor recreational spaces for visitors.

Recognized as a Historical Preserved Monument (Government Gazette 342/B/10-4-1998), the Kranai Lighthouse is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers exploring Gythio and the Mani Peninsula.

Getting There: Park at the entrance of Kranai islet and take a short scenic walk to the lighthouse

Photo: Hellenic War Navy