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Phare de l'Île Wrac'h

5000 Ile Wrach, 29880 Plouguerneau, France

Name and Location

The Phare de l'Île Wrac'h is a historic lighthouse located on the island of Île Wrac'h, off the coast of Brittany, France.

Construction and History

The exact date of construction is unknown, but it is believed to have been built in the 19th century. The lighthouse has played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of mariners and ships passing through the region, helping to prevent shipwrecks and other maritime accidents.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 15 meters (49 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of 20 meters (66 feet). Its distinctive red and white stripes make it easily visible from a distance. The structure is constructed of painted materials, providing excellent conspicuity in low-light conditions.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse emits a Q-class light signal, characterized by a period of 15 seconds with three flashes. The light has a range of approximately 7 nautical miles (13 kilometers).

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the island of Île Wrac'h via ferry from the nearby town of Plouguerneau. However, the lighthouse is not open to the public for guided tours or self-guided visits.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands on a small island surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds and marine life. Its picturesque surroundings make it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Technical and Operational Details

The Phare de l'Île Wrac'h has been recognized as an important cultural landmark in France, with its rich history and architectural significance making it a valuable part of the country's heritage.

Further Information

  • References include Shom-DAM (2019). Balisage maritime. and Ofis Publik ar Brezhoneg (2022). Île Wrac'h: A Brief History of the Lighthouse. A Wikipedia article is also available for further reading on this topic.

Details

NamePhare de l'Île Wrac'h
City
CountryFrance
Coordinates48.6147786, -4.5758372
Historic significancehas played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of mariners and ships passing through the region
Storiescrucial role in ensuring the safety of mariners and ships passing through the region
Construction materialpainted materials
Focal height20
Tower height15
Heritage statustrue
Access descriptionby ferry from the nearby town of Plouguerneau
Accessiblefalse
Landscape typecoastal island
View descriptionthe Atlantic Ocean and surrounding wildlife, including seabirds and marine life
Guided toursfalse
Nearby attractionsÎle Wrac'h: A Brief History of the Lighthouse
Light characteristicQ-class light signal
Light range7
Automatedtrue