Baron Bliss Lighthouse

The Baron Bliss Lighthouse was constructed in 1906 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners approaching the port of Belize City, Belize.

History

• The lighthouse was built by the British colonial authorities at the behest of Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, a British-born traveller who had spent significant time in the region.
• The lighthouse was constructed during a period of significant economic growth and development in British Honduras (now Belize).

Architecture

The Baron Bliss Lighthouse is a 30-metre-tall (98 ft) tower constructed from limestone and granite.

• The lighthouse features a distinctive octagonal shape with a square base and four smaller squares on each side.
• The structure was designed by the British architectural firm of John Fowler & Partners, who were renowned for their expertise in designing colonial-era buildings.

Light Characteristics

The Baron Bliss Lighthouse emits a fixed white light that can be seen from a distance of approximately 20 nautical miles (37 km).

Current Status

The Baron Bliss Lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation.

The lighthouse remains an important navigational reference point for mariners entering Belize City.

Location and Accessibility

The Baron Bliss Lighthouse is located on Fort Street in Belize City, Belize, at a coordinates of 17.49141, -88.1814169.

The lighthouse is situated near the waterfront and can be accessed via a short walkway from the nearby road.

Heritage Status

The Baron Bliss Lighthouse has been designated as a National Monument by the Government of Belize, recognizing its historical significance as a navigational aid in the region.

Notable Historical Events

• The lighthouse played an important role in facilitating trade and commerce between the British colonial authorities and local merchants.