The Expanded Narrative
A maritime landmark over 1,200 years old that guided ships to the port of Aden with lanterns.
Historical value
The Aden Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the Arab world. Historical sources date its construction to the early Islamic era, specifically the reign of the Umayyad caliph Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz in the second century AH (c. 718 CE). For centuries it played a vital role in guiding commercial and naval ships arriving at the port of Aden, one of the world’s most important ports on the trade route between East and West.
Architectural description
- A cylindrical stone tower about 21 metres high.
- Six storeys; the base measures about 8 metres across.
- A spiral staircase leads to the top.
- In the past it was lit with oil or fire lanterns to guide ships at night.
- Overlooks the Gulf of Aden from a strategic height in Crater.
Visitor information
- Climbing to the top is currently closed to visitors for safety reasons.
- It can be admired from outside, with photos from the surrounding square.
- Located in old Crater, reachable on foot from the main souqs.
- A wonderful backdrop for photography, especially at sunset.
Among the oldest lighthouses in the Arab worldAttributed to the era of Caliph Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz (c. 718 CE)A cylindrical stone tower about 21 metres highOnce lit with oil lanterns at night
