Centro de Arte Faro de Cabo Mayor
Art centre in the Cabo Mayor lighthouse in Santander, with the Sanz-Villar collection on lighthouses and free admission.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Cabo Mayor lighthouse was first lit on the night of 15 August 1839 and stands at the entrance to the bay of Santander. It is a privileged balcony over the sea and the city, and today is one of the most emblematic buildings for residents and visitors.
The art centre was created to restore the lighthouse facilities for public use and enjoyment, and to display the collection assembled by the artists Eduardo Sanz and Isabel Villar over their careers. Its project focuses on art, the sea and, above all, lighthouses as cultural icons, which makes it unique in Spain and in Europe. In 2026 it celebrates its twentieth anniversary.
The centre's core is the Sanz-Villar collection, which many regard as the most admirable creation of Eduardo Sanz, the fruit of his passion for lighthouses. It is a coherent set of more than two thousand pieces, made up of works by the artists themselves and by others, as well as objects and curiosities with the lighthouse as their theme. The centre's activity is complemented by a programme of temporary art and documentary exhibitions, with particular attention to the maritime landscape and environment. The centre depends on the Santander Port Authority.
Highlights
- Sanz-Villar collection: more than two thousand pieces with the lighthouse as their theme
- Works by Eduardo Sanz and Isabel Villar
- Lighthouse first lit in 1839 at the entrance to the bay of Santander
- Programme of temporary exhibitions on the maritime landscape and environment
- Free admission
Permanent exhibition
- Colección Sanz-Villar – More than two thousand pieces by Eduardo Sanz, Isabel Villar and other artists, along with objects and curiosities, with the lighthouse as the common thread.
- Founded
- 2006
- Operated by
- Autoridad Portuaria de Santander
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Free admission.
Accessibility
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Kids & families
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Getting there & parking
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Amenities & dining
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Events & venue rental
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