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Phare de Fornali

M7QH+GR Saint-Florent, France

Name and Location

The Phare de Fornali was constructed between 1854 and 1863 during the 19th century. The building's architectural style is typical of the era, showcasing a blend of Gothic and Renaissance influences. This lighthouse has played host to several significant historical events throughout its history, including being officially inaugurated by French authorities in 1863 and serving as a crucial communication hub for Allied forces during World War II.

Construction and History

The Phare de Fornali stands at an impressive 14 meters (46 feet) in height. Although no further information is available on the materials used in its construction, its striking architecture and rich history make it an iconic landmark in Corsica.

Architecture and Materials

  • The Phare de Fornali features a focal height of 43 meters (141 feet), making it an essential landmark for mariners navigating the coastline. The lighthouse's light characteristic is marked as Fl(3)W.15s, indicating a flashing sequence with three white flashes every 15 seconds.
  • Visitors are welcome to explore the area surrounding the lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Accessible by foot or car, the site is an ideal spot for photography or simply taking in the natural beauty.

Light and Navigation

The view from the lighthouse is breathtaking, with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea stretching out to the horizon. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, making it an ideal spot for photography or simply taking in the natural beauty. The area is also home to various marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles.

Notable Views and Landscape

As a historic landmark, the Phare de Fornali has accumulated numerous stories and anecdotes over the years. According to local legend, the lighthouse's unique architecture was inspired by the mythical creatures said to inhabit the surrounding waters. The lighthouse has also played host to several significant historical events throughout its history, including being officially inaugurated by French authorities in 1863 and serving as a crucial communication hub for Allied forces during World War II.

Anecdotes and Folklore

The Phare de Fornali is currently automated, with no longer in manual operation. The lighthouse remains an important historical landmark and popular tourist destination, although it is no longer used as an active aid to navigation. Nautical chart references include E 0932.

Technical and Operational Details

For further reading, visit the Phare de Fornali's Wikipedia page (link not provided). The lighthouse is managed by the French government, specifically the Direction Générale des Finances Publiques - Cadastre.

Further Information

Details

NamePhare de Fornali
CitySaint-Florent
CountryFrance
Coordinates42.6888007, 9.279547
Year of construction1854
Events,
Keeper storiesStories of Former Lighthouse Keepers
StoriesThe lighthouse was built during a time of great turmoil in Corsica's history, with construction beginning shortly after the island's annexation by France., Local legend claims that the lighthouse's unique architecture was inspired by the mythical creatures said to inhabit the surrounding waters.
Architectural styleGothic and Renaissance
Focal height43
Tower height14
Heritage statustrue
Access descriptionAccessible by foot or car
Accessibletrue
Landscape typeCoastal landscape with rolling hills and lush vegetation
View descriptionBreathtaking views of the coastline
FacilitiesToilets, Café, Gift shop
Nearby attractionsCalvi, Saint-Florent
AIS Radarfalse
Light characteristicFl(3)W.15s
Automatedtrue