A passionate visual journey highlighting 230 of the greatest light-houses in Scotland, Ireland, England, France, Spain, Portugal, and ending at the gates of Africa. Lighthouses have fired the imagination for more than 200 years. They represent daring, knowledge, a ray of hope, and the first hint of a port of call.Lighthouses of Europe captures not only the mystical structures of over 230 great lighthouses, but also salutes a way of life that may soon cease to exist. The book starts with a historical overview of Europe's greatest lighthouses and the myths and legends surrounding them. For each geographical region, the author recreates the fascinating, age-old history of the lighthouses, their beacons, and the fascinating maritime activities they became involved in. Descriptions of each of these historical monuments are followed by spectacular photography, including dramatic views from land, sea, and sky as well as incredible interior shots. Readers will also become enthralled with the passionate tales of the lighthouse keepers who, as automation arrives, are the last set of eyes responsible for the light shining from land. • Only book available in the United States about European lighthouses • Includes stunningly gorgeous photography of over 200 lighthouses on the Atlantic coast of Western Europe, from Scotland to the gates of Africa • Topographical maps illustrate each lighthouse location geographically • Provides detailed information about each lighthouse, including: region, position, year of construction, engineer, height, altitude, and more Read Less