Name and Location

Le Pignon Lighthouse is located at the entrance to the Seine Bay in Normandy, France. Its coordinates are Latitude: 48.8915382 and Longitude: -1.7225776.

2. Construction and History

Built in 1656, Le Pignon Lighthouse has been guiding mariners for over three centuries. It is one of the oldest lighthouses on the French coast.

3. Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse features a blend of medieval and Renaissance styles, with a sturdy stone base supporting a wooden tower. The tower stands at an impressive height of 10 meters, with a focal height of 23 meters above sea level.

4. Light and Navigation

Le Pignon Lighthouse features two lights: one red, emitting a Fl (0.5+1.5, 0.5+3.5) s signal every 6 seconds within a range of 9 nautical miles, and the other white, with a similar sequence and range. These beacons serve as a vital aid to navigation for mariners entering the Seine Bay.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds, although the tower itself is not open to the public. The surrounding area offers stunning views of the Seine Bay and the nearby town of Granville.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

The surrounding area provides beautiful views of the Seine Bay and the town of Granville.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

Le Pignon Lighthouse has played a significant role in maritime history, with reports of shipwrecks and notable visits from prominent figures. For more information on the lighthouse's rich past, consult Wikipedia.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The operation was initially manual, relying on the diligence of lighthouse keepers. However, the lighthouse has since been automated, ensuring continuous service without human intervention. The French government's IGN (Institut Géographique National) is responsible for maintaining Le Pignon Lighthouse.

9. Further Information

For further reading on the history and significance of Le Pignon Lighthouse, refer to: IGN Cartography and Wikipedia: Le Pignon.