Name and Location

The Faro de Punta Caldera is located in the picturesque town of Caldera, Atacama Region, Chile. The official address is W4XX+G7 Caldera, Chile (GPS Coordinates: -27.0511352° S, -70.8517848° W).

Construction and History

The Faro de Punta Caldera was built in 1924, standing at a height of 38 meters (124 feet) with a focal plane height of approximately 45 meters (148 feet). The lighthouse is constructed from traditional materials such as concrete and steel.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse showcases a blend of modernist and Art Deco architectural styles.

Light and Navigation

The light characteristic of the Faro de Punta Caldera is Fl(3)W.15s, indicating that it emits white light every 12 seconds, with a range of approximately 15 nautical miles (28 kilometers). The lighthouse was initially manually operated but has since been automated to ensure continuous guidance for mariners.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse area through a guided tour or by visiting the nearby town of Caldera. The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Atacama Desert, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts alike.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse is situated near the Pacific coast, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding desert landscape. The area is known for its unique geological formations and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Local folklore tells tales of former keepers and their heroic actions during severe weather conditions. Stories of the brave men and women who once manned the Faro de Punta Caldera are a testament to their dedication and courage in the face of harsh weather conditions and isolation.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse is no longer actively guiding mariners as a primary function, but remains a popular tourist attraction and cultural landmark in Chile. Mariners can reference nautical charts such as G 1924 to navigate the area safely.

Further Information

For more information on the Faro de Punta Caldera, please refer to the Wikipedia article in Spanish: [es:Faro de Punta Caldera]. The Armada de Chile is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the lighthouse.