Name and Location

The Phare de Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse is located in Rimouski, Quebec, Canada. It stands proudly as a testament to maritime history and innovation.

Construction and History

Built in 1875, the Phare de Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse was constructed to serve as a beacon for mariners navigating the treacherous St. Lawrence River. Its original lantern room housed a powerful Fresnel lens, which emitted a brilliant beam of light that could be seen from up to 20 kilometers away.

Architecture and Materials

The Phare de Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse is an exemplary example of Second Empire architecture, characterized by its characteristic mansard roof and ornate details. The tower stands at an impressive height of 43 meters (141 feet) and features a distinctive red-and-white striped design that has become synonymous with lighthouses.

Light and Navigation

The Phare de Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse was instrumental in reducing maritime accidents and fatalities by providing a vital navigation aid for mariners. Its original lantern room housed a powerful Fresnel lens, which emitted a brilliant beam of light that could be seen from up to 20 kilometers away. The lighthouse is one of only three in the world that still uses its original Fresnel lens.

Accessibility and Visiting

The Phare de Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse continues to serve as a vital navigation aid for mariners and a popular tourist destination.

Notable Views and Landscape

No notable views or landscape information available.

Anecdotes and Folklore

The lighthouse has been featured on numerous postage stamps and coins, cementing its status as an iconic Canadian landmark. Its rich history and architectural significance make it a valuable part of Canada's cultural heritage.

Technical and Operational Details

In 1971, the Phare de Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse was designated as a National Historic Site by the Government of Canada. In the years following, the structure underwent extensive restoration efforts to preserve its architectural integrity and restore its original functionality. The lighthouse was powered by electricity from 1929 onwards, making it a pioneer in adopting modern technology.

Further Information

• Parks Canada Agency. (n.d.). Phare de Pointe-au-Père National Historic Site.
• Wikipedia. (n.d.). Phare de Pointe-au-Père.