NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale

The Bizerte Lighthouses are two distinct navigational aids located in the city of Bizerte, Tunisia, marking the entrance to the Bizerte Canal.

Visual Characteristics

The older lighthouse, known as the Bizerte Old Lighthouse or Phare de Bizerte, is a cylindrical stone tower with a white facade. It stands approximately 30 meters (98 feet) tall and features a black lantern room. The newer lighthouse, the Bizerte New Lighthouse, is a more modern, slender concrete structure, also painted white, with a red band near its top. It is taller than the old lighthouse.

Location & Access Logistics

The Bizerte Lighthouses are situated at the northernmost point of the Bizerte Canal, on the eastern side of the channel leading into the port. Access is via the coastal road that runs along the canal. Parking is available in designated areas near the port facilities. Public transport within Bizerte includes local buses that serve the port area.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Bizerte Old Lighthouse was constructed in 1894 by the French colonial administration to guide ships into the strategically important port of Bizerte. Its purpose was to facilitate maritime traffic and naval operations. The Bizerte New Lighthouse was built later to supplement the older structure and improve navigational safety, particularly for larger vessels. The geological context is coastal sedimentary rock formations.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of the lighthouse structures from the exterior is the primary activity. Photography of the lighthouses and the port entrance is possible. Walking along the canal promenade offers views of maritime activity.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in the vicinity of the port. Shade is limited in the immediate lighthouse areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors and cafes are located within the port and city center.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon offers favorable lighting conditions as the sun sets over the western side of the city. The best months for visiting are generally from April to October, offering drier weather. Tidal conditions do not significantly impact access to the lighthouse viewing areas.

Facts & Legends

The Bizerte Canal, which the lighthouses guard, is one of the oldest artificial waterways in the world, with origins dating back to ancient Carthaginian times. The strategic importance of Bizerte's port has led to its involvement in numerous historical conflicts.

Nearby Landmarks

• Bizerte Old Town (0.8km West)
• Fort d'Agimont (1.2km Southwest)
• Bizerte Naval Base (1.5km South)
• Ichkeul National Park (15km Southwest)