Lighthouse of Didimi

The stone lighthouse in Didimi Island or Gaïdouronisi is located exactly opposite to the port of Ermoupoli and it still stands as a symbol of the wealth and splendour of this merchant port. This lighthouse was built by J. Erlacher in 1834 and it was the first one to have a rotating mechanism in the Aegean Sea. On the lower part of the lighthouse, there were the keeper's living quarters.

The history of the lighthouse is connected to king Otto's visit to the Aegean Islands in 1833 and the desire of Ermoupoli's citizens to establish the presence and the importance of the port of this marine city. 29,5 m / 96 ft high and with a focal length of 68,3 m / 224 ft, this tall, potent lighthouse has inspired for many years the local folklore with stories. It was said that its light could be seen even from Smyrna.