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Phare de Kribi

WWQ3+RG5, Kribi, Cameroon

Name and Location

The Phare de Kribi, also known as the Kribi Lighthouse, is a prominent landmark located in Kribi, Cameroon, situated on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea.

Construction and History

The Phare de Kribi was built in 1923 by the French colonial authorities to aid navigation along the Cameroon coastline. The structure was designed by architects who drew inspiration from traditional African and European styles, blending these influences to create a unique architectural style.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 25 meters (82 feet) and features a distinctive tower with a white-and-red striped pattern.

Light and Navigation

The Phare de Kribi is equipped with a Fresnel lens, which emits a light characteristic of Fl(3)W.15s. This means that the lighthouse produces three white flashes every 15 seconds, providing a beacon for mariners to navigate through treacherous waters.

Accessibility and Visiting

Located in the heart of Kribi town, the Phare de Kribi is easily accessible by road or water. Visitors can reach the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby harbor.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse overlooks the picturesque Gulf of Guinea, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Cameroonian coast. The surrounding landscape features lush vegetation, sandy beaches, and a diverse array of marine life.

Heritage Status and Current Use

Although the Phare de Kribi is no longer an active aid to navigation, it has been designated as a historic landmark by the Cameroon government. Today, the lighthouse serves as a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Cameroonian maritime heritage.

Technical and Operational Details

N/A

Further Information

Details

NamePhare de Kribi
City
CountryCameroon
Coordinates2.9395549, 9.9039818
Year of construction1923
Eventsshipwrecks; rescues
Tower height25
Landscape typecoastal
View descriptionlush vegetation, sandy beaches, and a diverse array of marine life
Guided toursfalse
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
Nearby attractions["Cameroon Tourist Board: Phare de Kribi"]
AIS Radarfalse
Light characteristic"Fl(3)W.15s"
Automatedfalse