Logo

lighthouse-index

Phares de l'Île du Pilier

2JVR+22 Noirmoutier-en-l'Île, France

Name and Location

The Phares de l'Île du Pilier is a historic lighthouse located on the Île du Pilier, an island off the coast of Noirmoutier-en-l'Île, France.

2. Construction and History

The Phares de l'Île du Pilier was constructed in the 19th century and has been in operation ever since. It serves as an important aid to navigation for mariners and has a rich history dating back to its construction.

3. Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is constructed in the traditional French style, with a white stone tower topped with a red lantern room. The architecture reflects its original purpose as an aid to navigation, with a prominent light source and a robust structure designed to withstand harsh marine conditions.

4. Light and Navigation

The Phares de l'Île du Pilier exhibits a light characteristic pattern of Fl(3)W.15s, indicating a flashing white light with a period of 20 seconds. The light is visible for a range of 29 kilometers (18 miles), serving as an important aid to navigation for mariners.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

The lighthouse is located on the Île du Pilier, which can be accessed by ferry or private boat. Unfortunately, the lighthouse is not open to the public for guided tours or self-guided visits.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

From the vantage point of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and the French coastline. The island's unique geography and ecosystem provide a fascinating opportunity to observe marine life and study the area's natural history.

7. (No anecdotes or folklore available)

(No anecdotes or folklore available)

8. Technical and Operational Details

The Phares de l'Île du Pilier has been automated since its construction in the 19th century, with an auxiliary light serving as a backup in case of technical issues. The lighthouse currently operates as an active aid to navigation for mariners, providing vital support for safe passage.

9. Further Information

  • * ANFR (2019). Phares de l'Île du Pilier. Retrieved from <https://www.anfr.fr/>
  • * US NGA Pub. 113 (2010-10-22). Lighthouses of France.
  • * data.gouv.fr, Ministère de la Culture - 2016. Monument historique.

The managing authority responsible for the Phares de l'Île du Pilier is the French Ministry of Culture and its various regional offices.

Details

NamePhares de l'Île du Pilier
CityNoirmoutier-en-l'Île
CountryFrance
Coordinates47.0426116, -2.3599818
Architectural styletraditional French style
Construction materialstone
Focal height33
Tower height29
Access descriptionby ferry or private boat
Accessiblefalse
View descriptionbreathtaking views of the surrounding waters and the French coastline
Guided toursfalse
Nearby attractionsFrench coastline
AIS Radarfalse
Light characteristicFl(3)W.15s
Light range18
Automatedtrue