Name and Location

The Phare d'Ar-Men lighthouse is located on the picturesque Île de Sein in the Finistère department of Brittany, France. Its official address is 3222+2W Île de Sein, France, and it can be found at a latitude of 48.05012° N and longitude of -4.997733° W.

Construction and History

The Phare d'Ar-Men was built in 1881, designed by French architect Étienne-Jules Marey. The lighthouse has a rich history, serving as a crucial aid to navigation for mariners until its automation in 1984.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is a 29-meter-tall (95 feet) tower built from granite and limestone, characterized by an Art Nouveau architectural style with a distinctive white light characteristic of Fl(3)W.15s.

Light and Navigation

The focal height of the lighthouse is approximately 27 meters (89 feet), and its light range extends up to 23 nautical miles (43 kilometers). The tower's lantern room houses a Fresnel lens that guides ships through the treacherous waters surrounding the island.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can enter the lighthouse and explore its interior, which features exhibits on maritime history and the island's culture. The Phare d'Ar-Men Museum is open from April to October, with guided tours available upon request. On-site facilities include a small café and a gift shop.

Notable Views and Landscape

From its observation deck, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and the picturesque island. The lighthouse is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with the nearby Pointe du Raz offering stunning coastal vistas.

Anecdotes and Folklore

• According to local folklore, the lighthouse was built on an ancient sacred site, making it a unique cultural and historical landmark.
• During World War II, the Phare d'Ar-Men played a crucial role in guiding British ships through treacherous waters, earning it a special place in Brittany's maritime history.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was operated manually by lighthouse keepers until its automation in 1984. Today, it is no longer used for navigation but instead serves as a museum and a popular tourist attraction.