Logo

lighthouse-index

Cabo Frio Lighthouse

XXPX+JP Arraial do Cabo - State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Name and Location

The Cabo Frio Lighthouse stands tall in the picturesque town of Arraial do Cabo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Construction and History

Built in 1843 during the reign of Emperor Pedro II, the Cabo Frio Lighthouse marks an era of significant maritime development in Brazil. The tower was constructed using local materials, including limestone and granite.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse's architectural style is typical of Brazilian lighthouses during this period, with a mix of colonial and Baroque elements. Its design is characterized by a white truncated round shape, standing 140 meters (459 feet) tall.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse emits a powerful white light, flashing every 10 seconds over a range of approximately 49 kilometers (30 miles). The light's sector is bounded by azimuths 118° and 231°, providing critical guidance for vessels navigating the treacherous waters off the coast of Rio de Janeiro.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse and surrounding area through guided tours, which provide insight into the site's history and significance. On-site facilities include a small museum and gift shop.

Notable Views and Landscape

Arraial do Cabo is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can explore the town's charming colonial architecture, enjoy water sports, or take a boat tour to nearby islands.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its original Fresnel lens has been replaced by modern technology. The tower is now automated, allowing for continuous operation without the need for manual maintenance or intervention.

Further Information

Details

NameCabo Frio Lighthouse
CityArraial do Cabo
CountryBrazil
Coordinates-23.0134133, -42.0007454
Year of construction1843
Eventsshipwrecks or rescues
Historic significancevital aid to navigation for mariners and sailors since its construction in the mid-19th century
Storiesanecdotes, myths, or legends related to the lighthouse
Architectural stylecolonial and Baroque
Construction materiallimestone, granite
Focal height52
Tower height140
Renovationsreplacement of original Fresnel lens with modern technology
Access descriptionGuided tours available
Accessibletrue
Landscape typerocky coast, dunes, island
View descriptionstunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and scenic hiking trails
Guided tourstrue
Facilitiessmall museum, gift shop
Opening hoursGuided tours available
Nearby attractionsstunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and scenic hiking trails
Light characteristicpowerful white light, flashing every 10 seconds over a range of approximately 49 kilometers
Light range30
Automatedtrue