The lighthouse was activated in 1932 and consists of a lantern mounted atop an octagonal tower, 22 metres (72 ft) high, dedicated to San Giovanni, built in 1565 by Charles V. The front of the massive tower is painted in a bold black and white checkerboard pattern. The lantern, painted in grey metallic, is positioned at 24 metres (79 ft) above sea level and emits white or red isophase flash in a 4 seconds period, visible up to a distance of 15 nautical miles (28 km; 17 mi). The lighthouse is completely automated and is managed by the Marina Militare with the identification code number 3310 E.F.[2]