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Phare des Roches Douvres

8CXV454P+29

Name and Location

The Phare des Roches Douvres lighthouse is located at 8CXV454P+29 in Brittany, France. It is also known locally as Tour-tan Roc'h an Douvez.

Construction and History

Built in 1859 during the Romantic era, the Phare des Roches Douvres marks a significant milestone in maritime history. This magnificent structure was built to serve as a vital aid to navigation for sailors and ships.

Architecture and Materials

Designed in the Neoclassical architectural style, the lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 60 meters (197 feet). Its sturdy construction is made from local stone and features a striking white tower with a red lantern room. The unique design makes it a prominent landmark on the Brittany coast.

Light and Navigation

The original function of the Phare des Roches Douvres was to guide mariners through the treacherous coastal waters of Brittany. It featured a Fresnel lens, producing a light characteristic of Fl(3)W.15s (three flashes every 15 seconds). Although it is no longer an active aid to navigation, its historic significance remains unchanged.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can enter the lighthouse and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The best way to reach the Phare des Roches Douvres is by car or public transportation. Parking is available nearby. Opening hours, entrance fees, guided tours, and on-site facilities are subject to change; it's recommended to check with the managing authority before visiting.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse is situated near the rocky coastline of Brittany, surrounded by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and scenic coves. The area is renowned for its natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Locals whisper tales of shipwrecks and heroic rescues, adding to the lighthouse's rich cultural heritage. The Phare des Roches Douvres has played a crucial role in maritime history, serving as a vital aid to navigation during times of war and peace.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was initially operated manually before being automated in the early 20th century to improve efficiency.

Further Information

  • * [Wikipedia Article](insert link)
  • * [Heritage France Website](insert link)

Details

NamePhare des Roches Douvres
City
CountryFrance
Coordinates49.1050242, -2.814116
Year of construction1859
Eventstimes of war and peace
Historic significancevital aid to navigation for sailors and ships
Storiesshipwrecks and heroic rescues
Architectural styleNeoclassical
Construction materiallocal stone
Tower height60
Heritage statustrue
Renovationsautomated in the early 20th century
Access descriptionby car or public transportation
Accessibletrue
Landscape typerocky coastline, sandy beaches, and scenic coves
View descriptionstunning views of the surrounding landscape
Guided toursfalse
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop (subject to change)
Opening hourssubject to change; check with the managing authority
AIS Radarfalse
Light characteristicFl(3)W.15s
Automatedtrue