Pharos

Pharos

Pharos is an ancient lighthouse that once stood on the island of Pharos in Alexandria, Egypt. Constructed during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus in the 3rd century BCE, the Pharos was a monumental structure that served as a navigational aid for ships approaching the city's harbor. The lighthouse was designed by the Greek architect Sostratus of Cnidus and was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Pharos was built using large blocks of limestone and stood at an estimated height of 100 to 120 meters (330 to 390 feet), making it one of the tallest man-made structures of its time. The lighthouse consisted of three main sections: a square base, an octagonal middle section, and a cylindrical upper section topped with a statue, possibly depicting Poseidon or Zeus. The Pharos was not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the Ptolemaic dynasty's power and wealth. It featured a complex system of mirrors that reflected sunlight during the day and a fire that burned at night, guiding ships safely into the harbor. The lighthouse remained in operation for centuries, undergoing repairs and renovations until it was severely damaged by a series of earthquakes between the 3rd and 12th centuries CE. By the end of the 15th century, the Pharos had collapsed, and its remains were later used to build the Citadel of Qaitbay, a medieval fortress that still stands on the site today. Despite its destruction, the Pharos left a lasting legacy in the field of architecture and engineering, influencing the design of lighthouses and other tall structures for centuries to come.

Lighthouse, Alexandria, Egypt, navigation

— John Armstrong

CITATION : "John Armstrong. 'Pharos.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/pharos?E=433070 (Accessed on October 13, 2026)"