Name and Location

The Kish Lighthouse stands tall in the picturesque Irish waters at an impressive height of 29 meters (95 feet) with a focal height of 21 meters (69 feet). Located at coordinates 53.310833° N, 5.9257° W, it is one of Ireland's most iconic landmarks.

Construction and History

The Kish Lighthouse was built in 1818 by the Commissioners of Irish Lights, making it one of the earliest lighthouses on the Irish coast. The tower is constructed from limestone with a distinctive red color that serves as a beacon to mariners at night. Initially lit by candle, it was later upgraded to an electric light in 1925.

Architecture and Materials

The Kish Lighthouse is constructed from limestone, with a height of 29 meters (95 feet) and a focal height of 21 meters (69 feet).

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse emits a white light with a characteristic of Fl (3) W 15s, indicating a flash every 15 seconds for three periods. This unique pattern helps distinguish the lighthouse from others along the coast.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the Kish Lighthouse via a small island connected by a causeway. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged coastlines, rocky shores, and an abundance of marine life.

Notable Views and Landscape

The area is also rich in history, with evidence of ancient human habitation dating back to the Mesolithic period. Locals have shared stories of former keepers who lived on the island with their families, highlighting the importance of this lighthouse to maritime trade and commerce.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Locals have shared stories of former keepers who lived on the island with their families, highlighting the importance of this lighthouse to maritime trade and commerce. The Kish Lighthouse has been featured prominently in several notable photographs and publications, capturing its dramatic red color against the Irish Sea's waves.

Technical and Operational Details

The Kish Lighthouse was automated in 1996, marking an end to the era of manual operation by keepers. Today, it remains an active aid to navigation, with a range of approximately 22 nautical miles (40 kilometers).

Further Information