Discover lighthouse icons and architectural treasures from Ireland, Europe, the USA, and beyond.
Portland Head
Located at the entrance to Casco Bay, Portland Head Lighthouse is Maine’s oldest lighthouse, first illuminated in 1791 under the guidance of President George Washington. Constructed from locally sourced rubblestone, this classic white tower reflects the region’s New England charm. Washington’s decision to use native materials, which could easily be transported by oxen, was a cost-saving measure that helped complete the lighthouse efficiently.
For more than two centuries, Portland Head Lighthouse has stood resilient against the fierce storms of the Atlantic, guiding sailors along Maine’s rugged coastline. As one of the most photographed and well-known lighthouses in the United States, it remains a significant symbol of maritime history, offering sweeping views of the picturesque shoreline.