Faro San Jorge

The Faro San Jorge is situated on Camino al Faro San Jorge, Comodoro Rivadavia, Argentina.

Location and Accessibility

• The lighthouse is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with its proximity to the town center making it a convenient stop for tourists.

History

Construction of the Faro San Jorge began in 1928 and was completed in 1930. The tower's design and construction were overseen by Argentine architect José María Villarreal.

The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime navigation, particularly during World War II when it served as an aid to ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Architecture

The Faro San Jorge stands at a height of 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level, with its focal height reaching 43 meters (141 feet).

The tower's design is characteristic of early 20th-century lighthouses, featuring a cylindrical shape with a distinctive lantern room.

The structure is constructed from stone and concrete, providing stability against the harsh coastal winds.

Light Characteristics

The Faro San Jorge emits a red light with a range of approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 km).

The light's pattern is fixed, with a duration of 3 seconds on each half-minute cycle.

This characteristic has been maintained since the lighthouse's construction to ensure reliable navigation for mariners.

Current Status

The Faro San Jorge remains an active aid to navigation, although it has undergone significant upgrades in recent years to improve its efficiency and reliability.

The lighthouse is now fully automated, with a state-of-the-art optical system that ensures accurate beam projection.

Heritage Status

The Faro San Jorge was declared a National Historic Monument by the Argentine government in 1993, recognizing its cultural significance as an important example of early 20th-century maritime architecture.

Notable Historical Events

During World War II, the Faro San Jorge played a vital role in supporting Allied forces by providing navigation assistance to ships traversing the Atlantic Ocean.

The lighthouse's strategic location made it an essential aid to navigation for convoys and supply vessels.