Fernando de Noronha’s highest point is called Morro do Pico. In the past, tourists were allowed to climb it to enjoy a view of the entire island. But then, some morons came up with a “brilliant” idea.

At the top of the hill, there is a lighthouse with a giant lens. This lighthouse is protected (?) by the air force. One day, air force officers noticed that the lighthouse wasn’t giving out as much light as it should. They sent somebody there to find out what was happening.

As he got there, the officer saw that the lens was covered with graffiti. Tourists had left messages on the lighthouse lens, such as: “I’ve been here on (date).” Or: “Joao loves Maria.” Or: “Mommy, here I am.”

The conclusion? Those tourists risked the lives of people aboard vessels. And… from that day on, the air force has forbidden non-authorized people from climbing Morro do Pico.

To find out more about Fernando de Noronha, check out the website maintained by the Government of Pernambuco and the Ilha de Noronha website.