Galley Head Lighthouse
G2HX+W2 Gahanive, County Cork, Ireland
Name and Location
The Galley Head Lighthouse is located in Gahanive, County Cork, Ireland (Address: G2HX+W2).
2. Construction and History
The Galley Head Lighthouse was constructed in 1851 to guide mariners through the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Its proximity to the Celtic Sea made it a crucial beacon for ships navigating the region's unpredictable weather patterns.
3. Architecture and Materials
Not applicable (no information available).
4. Light and Navigation
The Galley Head Lighthouse features a characteristic light pattern: Fl(3)W.15s, which means it exhibits three white flashes every 15 seconds. Although the lighthouse was once staffed by keepers, it has since been automated.
5. Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors are welcome to explore the surrounding area, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. However, access to the lighthouse itself is restricted for safety reasons.
6. Notable Views and Landscape
From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding Irish coastline. On a clear day, it's possible to spot ships navigating the waters below. The area is characterized by rugged cliffs, rocky outcroppings, and sandy beaches.
7. Anecdotes and Folklore
According to local lore, the Galley Head Lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships through treacherous waters during the Irish Potato Famine. Its importance as a navigational aid has been recognized by generations of mariners and locals alike.
8. Technical and Operational Details
The lighthouse stands at a height of 53 meters (174 feet) and has a focal plane height of approximately 35 meters (115 feet). For navigational purposes, mariners can reference nautical charts that include the lighthouse's location and characteristics. The Commissioners of Irish Lights are responsible for maintaining the Galley Head Lighthouse and ensuring its continued operation as a vital aid to navigation.
9. Further Information
For further reading and information, visitors can consult the Wikipedia article on the Galley Head Lighthouse: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galley_Head_Lighthouse
Details
| Name | Galley Head Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| City | |
| Country | Ireland |
| Coordinates | 51.5297718, -8.9524796 |
| Year of construction | 1851 |
| Events | shipwrecks; notable visits from naval vessels |
| Historic significance | Recognized as a significant cultural and historical landmark. |
| Keeper stories | Local stories and legends often revolve around the lives and experiences of former lighthouse keepers. |
| Stories | According to local lore, the Galley Head Lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships through treacherous waters during the Irish Potato Famine. |
| Focal height | 35 |
| Tower height | 53 |
| Heritage status | true |
| Access description | Visitors are welcome to explore the surrounding area, but access to the lighthouse itself is restricted for safety reasons. |
| Accessible | false |
| Landscape type | coastal environment |
| View description | From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding Irish coastline. |
| Guided tours | false |
| Facilities | toilets, cafe, gift shop |
| Nearby attractions | ["coastal hiking trails","scenic lookout points","historic sites"] |
| Light characteristic | "Fl(3)W.15s" |
| Automated | true |