Phare de l'Île rouge

The Phare de l'Île rouge, located on La Haute-Côte-Nord in Côte-Nord, Quebec, Canada, has a rich history dating back to its construction in the late 19th century. The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for ships traversing the treacherous waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

History

• The Phare de l'Île rouge is a classic example of a Victorian-era lighthouse, characterized by its distinctive square tower and red-and-white striped paintwork. The structure was designed by architect Étienne-Jean Bélanger, who was renowned for his expertise in designing navigational aids.
• The tower itself stands at 32 meters (105 feet) tall, with a focal height of 54 meters (177 feet). This allows the light to be seen from an impressive distance, making it an essential aid for mariners navigating the area.

Light Characteristics

• The Phare de l'Île rouge is equipped with a Fresnel lens, which produces a distinctive pattern of red and white lights. The primary light source is a 1,000-watt lamp, which emits a beam that can be seen up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) away.

Current Status

The Phare de l'Île rouge remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the 1990s. The lighthouse is now managed by the Canadian Coast Guard, which ensures its continued operation and maintenance.

Location and Accessibility

The Phare de l'Île rouge is situated on a rocky outcropping overlooking the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby parking area. The surrounding area offers stunning views of the coastline and the opportunity to explore the rich natural history of the region.

Heritage Status

The Phare de l'Île rouge is listed as a historic site under the Canadian Historic Sites Act, recognizing its importance as a navigational aid and its contribution to the country's maritime heritage.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Phare de l'Île rouge played an important role in the war effort. The lighthouse was used as a communication station for Allied forces, and its location made it an ideal spot for monitoring enemy ships.