From Paros and Zakynthos to Gytheio and Loutraki, 18 lighthouses across Greece will be open to the public marking International Lighthouse Day, the Hellenic Navy announced this week.

More specifically, the lighthouses of Megalo Emvolo (Thessaloniki), Akrotiri (Santorini), Arkitsa (Central Greece), Mudari (Kythira), Gourouni (Skopelos), Keri (Zakynthos), Kranai (Gytheio), Melagavi (Loutraki), Plaka (Limnos), Koraka (Paros), Alexandroupolis, Tainaro (Laconia), Kaki Kefali (Halkida), Vasilina (Evia), Dukato (Lefkada), Katakolo (Ilia), Drepano (Patra), and Antirrio Castle (Nafpaktos) will be open to the public on August 18 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free of charge.

The Hellenic Navy and the National Lighthouse Service observe International Lighthouse Day every year aiming to introduce visitors to the importance of lighthouses in Greek naval history and of their contribution to the safety of crews, sailors, ships and boats.

Additionally, most of the lighthouses, situated in some of Greece’s most spectacular settings, are also a valuable part of Greek cultural heritage.