Castletownbere Lighthouse
J3WV+GV Castletown-Bearhaven, County Cork, Ireland
Name and Location
The Castletownbere Lighthouse is located at J3WV+GV, Castletown-Bearhaven, County Cork, Ireland.
Construction and History
The Castletownbere Lighthouse was constructed in 1875 during the Victorian era. Its original purpose was to mark the entrance to Bantry Bay, one of Ireland's most prominent natural harbors.
Architecture and Materials
The lighthouse stands 20 meters (65 feet) tall, with a focal height of approximately 15 meters (49 feet). Its cylindrical shape is made from rugged grey stone, topped with a distinctive red roof and a characteristic white lantern room. The architectural style can be attributed to the era in which it was built, showcasing a blend of Victorian and Gothic Revival influences.
Light and Navigation
The lighthouse features three light sequences: a green light with an occulting period of 5 seconds, visible within a range of 11 nautical miles; a white light with an occulting period of 5 seconds, visible within a range of 14 nautical miles; and a red light with an occulting period of 5 seconds, visible within a range of 11 nautical miles.
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can explore the lighthouse's exterior and surrounding area. Access to the interior is restricted due to safety concerns. The site offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape.
Notable Views and Landscape
The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, with the rugged coastline stretching out towards the horizon. The area is known for its natural beauty, with nearby attractions such as the Bantry Bay and the Beara Peninsula.
Anecdotes and Folklore
Local folklore suggests that the lighthouse has played a crucial role in maritime safety throughout its history.
Technical and Operational Details
The Castletownbere Lighthouse was automated in the early 1990s, replacing its former manual operation. Today, it serves as an active aid to navigation, providing critical guidance for mariners navigating the waters off Ireland's west coast.
Further Information
For further reading and more detailed information about the Castletownbere Lighthouse, visit Wikipedia: <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castletownbere_Lighthouse>.
Details
| Name | Castletownbere Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| City | Castletown-Bearhaven |
| Country | Ireland |
| Coordinates | 51.64629, -9.9052697 |
| Year of construction | 1875 |
| Historic significance | Recognized as a significant heritage site in Ireland's rich maritime history. |
| Stories | local folklore suggests that the lighthouse has played a crucial role in maritime safety throughout its history. |
| Architectural style | Victorian and Gothic Revival |
| Construction material | "grey stone" |
| Focal height | 15 |
| Tower height | 20 |
| Heritage status | true |
| Access description | Explore the exterior of the lighthouse and surrounding area. |
| Accessible | true |
| Landscape type | rocky coast |
| View description | Breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscape. |
| Guided tours | true |
| Facilities | toilets, cafe, gift shop |
| Opening hours | subject to change; please check with local authorities |
| Nearby attractions | ["Bantry Bay","Beara Peninsula"] |
| Light characteristic | [{"sequence":1,"color":"green","occulting period":5,"range":11},{"sequence":2,"color":"white","occulting period":5,"range":14},{"sequence":3,"color":"red","occulting period":5,"range":11}] |
| Light range | [{"nautical miles":11,"sequence":1},{"nautical miles":14,"sequence":2},{"nautical miles":11,"sequence":3}] |
| Automated | true |