Faro Isla Burnt

The Faro Isla Burnt is a historic lighthouse located on Isla Burnt, off the coast of Cape Horn, Chile.

History

• The lighthouse was constructed in 1897 to serve as a navigational aid for ships traversing the treacherous waters of the Beagle Channel.
• The original lantern room was equipped with a Fresnel lens, which was replaced in the 1970s.

Architecture and Construction

The tower stands at a height of 25 meters (82 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 40 meters (131 feet).

The lighthouse is constructed from stone and features a distinctive cylindrical shape.

Light Characteristics

The Faro Isla Burnt emits a fixed red light, visible for up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) out to sea.

The light is powered by a diesel generator and operates automatically.

Current Status

The lighthouse is currently an inactive aid to navigation, having been automated in the 1970s.

However, it remains a popular tourist destination and is occasionally staffed by volunteers for maintenance and conservation purposes.

Location and Accessibility

The Faro Isla Burnt is located on Isla Burnt, off the coast of Cape Horn, Chile.

The lighthouse can be accessed via a small boat or kayak from the nearby town of Cape Horn.

Visitors must be self-sufficient and prepared for remote wilderness travel.

Heritage Status

The Faro Isla Burnt was declared a National Historic Monument in 1998, recognizing its importance as a navigational aid and cultural landmark.

Notable Historical Events

• The Faro Isla Burnt played a significant role in the early history of navigation in the Beagle Channel.
• In 1903, the lighthouse guided the Chilean Navy's expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula, which marked the first recorded sighting of the continent by a human vessel.