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PhrasesAt the PortDov'è il faro?
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Dov'è il faro?

Where is the lighthouse?

Pronunciation

'Faro' — FA-ro. Two syllables; 'fa' as in 'far', 'ro' as in 'row'. Also means headlight of a car.

When to use it

Ask when exploring a port town and want to visit the lighthouse as a tourist attraction. Lighthouses in Italian ports are often historic landmarks with panoramic views.

What it means

'Faro' means lighthouse. It is also the word for car headlight — the same word with two very different meanings depending on context. Port-related vocabulary: 'banchina' (quay), 'molo' (pier), 'faro' (lighthouse), 'capitaneria' (port authority), 'darsena' (marina).

Variations

Il faro è visitabile?

Is the lighthouse open to visitors?

Checks whether it's accessible as a tourist site.

Si può salire fino in cima?

Can you go up to the top?

Asks about climbing to the top for the view.

Da quanto tempo esiste questo faro?

How long has this lighthouse existed?

Historical question; Italian lighthouses are often centuries old.

Mini Dialogue

— Dov'è il faro? — In cima alla scogliera, si vede da qui. — Si può salire? — Sì, è aperto la domenica mattina dalle nove alle dodici.

— Where is the lighthouse? — At the top of the cliff, you can see it from here. — Can you go up? — Yes, it's open on Sunday mornings from nine to twelve.

Cultural Note

Italy has hundreds of historic lighthouses, many dating from the 19th century Unification era. The lighthouse network is managed by the Marina Militare. Some are open to tourists and have been converted into museums or even holiday accommodations.