Faro Punta Torrecilla
Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata
Dominican Republic -> Santo Domingo Attractions
Faro Punta Torrecilla
Faro Punta Torrecilla, also known as Faro San Souci, is a prominent lighthouse situated near the entrance to the port of Santo Domingo at the mouth of the Ozama River on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic. The current black and yellow, pyra... read moremid-like concrete tower stands approximately 125 feet tall, with an overall height of 135 feet including the light. It emits a blinking white light beacon visible up to 13 nautical miles, serving as a crucial navigational aid for vessels entering the Port of Santo Domingo.
The original lighthouse at this location was constructed around 1853 but was deactivated and demolished in 1967. The present structure was built in 1986 and bears a resemblance to the Survivors Lighthouse on the north coast in Puerto Plata. Positioned on coral cliffs approximately 7 meters above sea level, the lighthouse offers expansive views of the Caribbean Sea and the cityscape of Santo Domingo, including Avenida George Washington, commonly known as the Malecón.
The surrounding area, known as Punta Torrecilla Park, once featured well-maintained walkways along the coral cliffs. Over time, these paths have deteriorated, and the park now often contains litter from visitors. Despite the lack of facilities and occasional safety concerns, the park remains a spot for local fishermen and offers a vantage point to observe ships, including cruise liners and the ferry from Puerto Rico, as they navigate to and from the port. While daytime visits are generally safe, it is advisable to avoid the area after dark due to its seclusion.