Faro San Isidro

The Faro San Isidro is a historic lighthouse located on the island of Hornos, off the coast of Chile.

History

The tower was constructed in 1908 as part of a series of lighthouses built to aid navigation along the southern coast of South America.

Architecture and Construction

The Faro San Isidro is a white cylindrical concrete tower with a height of 28 meters (92 feet) above sea level, and a focal height of 46 meters (151 feet).

• The tower's design is characteristic of early 20th-century lighthouses, with a simple and functional structure that prioritizes safety and visibility.
• The building material used for the tower is concrete, while the dwelling is made of white stone.

Light Characteristics

The Faro San Isidro emits a distinctive Fl (first order) light pattern, visible from a range of 9 nautical miles (17 kilometers).

• The light's period is 5 seconds, and its color is white.
• The tower's light characteristics are designed to guide mariners safely through the treacherous waters of the Strait of Magellan.

Current Status

The Faro San Isidro is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated in recent years.

• The lighthouse remains a vital part of Chile's maritime safety infrastructure, providing crucial guidance for ships navigating the southern coast of South America.

Location and Accessibility

The Faro San Isidro is located on the island of Hornos, off the coast of Punta Arenas, Chile.

• The tower can be accessed via the Sendero Monte Tarn trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Punta Arenas, which offers a range of amenities and attractions.

Heritage Status

The Faro San Isidro is listed as a National Monument in Chile, recognizing its historical and cultural significance as a lighthouse and aid to navigation.

Notable Historical Events

The Faro San Isidro played an important role during the early 20th-century maritime trade between Europe and South America.

• The tower's light helped guide ships safely through the treacherous waters of the Strait of Magellan, facilitating the exchange of goods and people between the two continents.