Faro Islas Diego Ramirez

The Faro Islas Diego Ramirez is a historic lighthouse located on the island of Diego Ramirez, off the coast of Cape Horn, Chile.

History

• The construction of the lighthouse began in 1975 and was completed in 1976.

Architecture

The tower height of the Faro Islas Diego Ramirez is 108 meters (354 feet), while its focal height is approximately 150 meters (492 feet).

• The lighthouse features a distinctive cylindrical shape, with a white light emitting a Fl (flash) pattern every 15 seconds.
• The light's range extends up to 22 nautical miles.

The Faro Islas Diego Ramirez was designed by the Chilean Navy and constructed using concrete and steel materials.

Current Status

The Faro Islas Diego Ramirez is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its commissioning in 1976.

• The lighthouse remains an important navigational aid for mariners traversing the treacherous waters of the Strait of Magellan.

Location and Accessibility

The Faro Islas Diego Ramirez is situated on the island of Diego Ramirez, which is part of the Chilean territory in Antarctica.

• The lighthouse can be accessed by boat or via a scenic hike from the nearby Estación Meteorológica Caleta Condell.

Heritage Status

The Faro Islas Diego Ramirez has been designated as a protected monument by the Chilean government, recognizing its historical and cultural significance.

Notable Historical Events

• The construction of the Faro Islas Diego Ramirez marked an important milestone in the development of navigation in the Strait of Magellan.
• The lighthouse's commissioning in 1976 coincided with significant advances in maritime technology, including the introduction of automated navigation systems.