In 279 B.C.E., the tallest lighthouse in the world was built. This lighthouse, called 'The Pharos,' was constructed in Alexandria, Egypt, on the Mediterranean Sea.
One of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the Pharos lighthouse operated for more than 1,500 years. It had many unique features, too, including a spiral ramp. Horses could carry wood up this ramp to a huge fire at the top of the lighthouse. On top of this structure stood a 20-foot statue of Zeus Soter, said to be pointing at the sun.
Eventually, the lighthouse collapsed due to earthquakes. Archeologists believe it fell into the sea and have since found underwater ruins that they believe are from the Pharos lighthouse.
Alexander's tomb—another notable structure from the ancient world—was memorable, but the Pharos lighthouse was even more so.
[Source:
Simpson Street Free Press Archives
]