I am incredibly excited and proud to share the news that the Cap Spartel Lighthouse in Morocco has been named the Heritage Lighthouse of the Year 2023 by the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA). This is a very significant recognition for us and a testament to the hard work and determination of all those involved in promoting and preserving the cultural heritage of our lighthouse.
As the oldest lighthouse in Morocco, the Cap Spartel Lighthouse holds a rich history and significant cultural importance. It has played a vital role in guiding ships through the Strait of Gibraltar, one of the world's most frequented and important maritime passages. Over the years, we have worked tirelessly to ensure the lighthouse remains an important part of Morocco's cultural heritage and a symbol of our maritime history.
This recognition from IALA is a significant achievement for us, and we are thrilled to be the first and only Arab and African lighthouse to receive this honor. We are grateful to the Ports and Maritime Public Domain Directorate for submitting our nomination and to IALA for recognizing our efforts to promote and preserve lighthouse cultural heritage.
Our vision for the Cap Spartel Lighthouse has always been to highlight its rich cultural and architectural significance, and the opening of the National Museum of Lighthouses and Beacons in July 2021 was a significant step in this regard. With this recognition, we look forward to continuing to welcome visitors from around the world to discover the history, culture, and beauty of the Cap Spartel Lighthouse.
We are honored to have received the title of Heritage Lighthouse of the Year 2023, and we will continue to work hard to ensure that the Cap Spartel Lighthouse remains a cultural beacon and significant landmark for years to come.
Sincerely, The Cap Spartel Lighthouse Team