Loop Head Lighthouse
Loop Head Lighthouse, Kilbaha South, Co. Clare, Ireland
Name and Location
The Loop Head Lighthouse is located in Kilbaha South, County Clare, Ireland.
Construction and History
The Loop Head Lighthouse was constructed in 1879 during the Victorian era. It has a rich history of guiding mariners for centuries.
Architecture and Materials
The lighthouse stands at an impressive 84 feet (25.6 meters) tall, with a characteristic mansard roof shape. Its unique architectural style reflects the era's industrial and technological advancements.
Light and Navigation
The lighthouse's light is characterized by a distinctive Fl(3)W.15s pattern, which has been in operation since its construction. With a range of 23 nautical miles (42 kilometers), this light plays a crucial role in guiding vessels safely through the treacherous waters surrounding Loop Head.
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. Guided tours are available during certain times of the year, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the lighthouse's history and operation.
Notable Views and Landscape
The area is also home to various marine life, including seals and seabirds. The lighthouse is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by rugged cliffs and scenic coastal views.
Anecdotes and Folklore
The Loop Head Lighthouse has been associated with local folklore and stories of shipwrecks and heroic rescue efforts. These tales add to the lighthouse's mystique and cultural significance.
Technical and Operational Details
The Loop Head Lighthouse is an automated lighthouse, with no longer requiring manual maintenance or operation. This automation has allowed for increased efficiency and reduced risks associated with human error.
Further Information
For those interested in learning more about the Loop Head Lighthouse, several publications and online resources are available: Commissioners of Irish Lights, Wikipedia, Maritime Museum of Ireland. The lighthouse is managed by the Commissioners of Irish Lights, an organization dedicated to ensuring maritime safety and promoting awareness of lighthouses throughout Ireland.
Details
Name | Loop Head Lighthouse |
---|---|
City | Kilbaha South |
Country | Ireland |
Coordinates | 52.5608919, -9.9321803 |
Year of construction | 1879 |
Events | shipwrecks and heroic rescue efforts |
Historic significance | maritime safety |
Stories | local folklore and stories of shipwrecks and heroic rescue efforts |
Architectural style | mansard roof shape |
Focal height | 42 |
Tower height | 25.6 |
Heritage status | true |
Access description | Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. Guided tours are available during certain times of the year. |
Accessible | true |
Landscape type | rocky coast |
View description | scenic coastal views, rugged cliffs, and marine life |
Guided tours | true |
Facilities | toilets, café, gift shop |
Light characteristic | "Fl(3)W.15s" |
Light range | 23 |
Automated | true |