Faro Isla Malliña

Faro Isla Malliña, located on the island of Malliña off the coast of Chile, has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1884.

History

• The Faro Isla Malliña was built by the Chilean government to serve as a navigational aid for ships traversing the treacherous waters of the Pacific Ocean.
• The lighthouse has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1884.

Architecture

The Faro Isla Malliña is a classic example of a 19th-century lighthouse, with a sturdy stone tower that stands at an impressive height. The tower's architecture is characterized by its cylindrical shape and distinctive lantern room, which houses the Fresnel lens that projects the light beam out to sea.

Tower Height and Focal Height

The Faro Isla Malliña stands at a total height of 25 meters (82 feet), with its focal height reaching an impressive 30 meters (98 feet) above the surrounding terrain. This allows the lighthouse to cast a powerful beam of light out to sea, guiding mariners safely through the area.

Light Characteristics

The Faro Isla Malliña is equipped with a distinctive rotating light that flashes at a frequency of one second every five seconds. The light's range is estimated to be around 10 nautical miles (18 kilometers), making it an essential aid for navigation in this busy shipping lane.

Current Status

The Faro Isla Malliña is currently not in active use as a navigational aid, having been automated in the mid-20th century. However, the lighthouse remains an important part of Chile's maritime heritage and is now operated as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history.

Location and Accessibility

The Faro Isla Malliña is located on the island of Malliña, off the coast of Calbuco in southern Chile. The lighthouse can be accessed via Ruta V-827, a scenic road that winds its way through the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also reach the lighthouse by boat, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Heritage Status

The Faro Isla Malliña is listed as a National Historic Monument in Chile, recognizing its importance as a cultural and historical landmark. The lighthouse has been recognized for its well-preserved state and its role in the country's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

The Faro Isla Malliña played an important role during World War II, serving as a key navigational aid for Allied ships passing through the area. In 1943, the lighthouse was used to guide the USS Enterprise, the world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, on its way to the Pacific Theater.