Cardona, Ponce

The Cardona Island Light, also known as Faro de Isla Cardona, is a historic beacon of maritime navigation located on the small island of Cardona, just off the coast of Ponce, Puerto Rico. This lighthouse, an emblem of the island's rich nautical history, stands as a silent sentinel guiding vessels through the treacherous waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Constructed in 1889 by the Spanish government, the Cardona Island Light was part of a broader network of lighthouses established across the archipelago to ensure safer sea travel. The lighthouse's strategic position near the entrance to the Port of Ponce, Puerto Rico's second-largest port, highlights its importance in facilitating commercial trade and transportation during a time of significant economic expansion.

The structure itself is an exemplary model of the architectural design characteristic of the era's lighthouse construction. It features a cylindrical tower attached to a one-story keeper's house, both constructed with robust masonry to withstand the harsh marine environment. The tower's light, once fuelled by oil, has been modernized over the years but continues to serve its original purpose of aiding in navigation.

Despite the lighthouse's critical role in maritime safety, it is currently inactive and serves primarily as a historical landmark. It is accessible to visitors who wish to explore the island and enjoy the panoramic views of Ponce's coastline and the surrounding sea. The journey to the island is an adventure in itself, requiring a boat trip that adds to the allure of visiting this isolated yet captivating destination.