El Faro

Built between 1885 and 1891 on the site of an earlier lighthouse, today’s 40-meter (131-foot) faro (lighthouse) was originally lit with kerosene. It was converted to electricity in 1923; a 1,000-watt light bulb and a backup generator ensure there’s always light to lead sailors through the shallow Gulf waters into Progreso [1]. It’s not officially open to tourists, but lighthouse buffs may be able to finagle a visit by asking for permission at the tourist office.