Logo

lighthouse-index

Rotten Island Lighthouse

JH75+RR Roshine Hill, County Donegal, Ireland

Name and Location

The Rotten Island Lighthouse is located on the picturesque Rotten Island, off the coast of County Donegal, Ireland.

Construction and History

Built in 1853 during the Victorian era, the lighthouse has a rich history. Its architectural style is attributed to renowned Irish architect [Name].

Architecture and Materials

The structure's foundation is rooted in local limestone, while its white exterior is rendered with a smooth, impermeable coating. The tower measures 20 meters (65 feet) in height, with a focal plane at an elevation of approximately 35 meters (115 feet).

Light and Navigation

The primary light emits a Fl(3)W.15s pattern, comprising three flashes every 15 seconds. The secondary light is marked by a Fl red light.

Accessibility and Visiting

Although no longer in operation as a navigational aid, the lighthouse now serves as a heritage monument, managed by the Commissioners of Irish Lights. Visitors can access the lighthouse, but it is not open to the general public due to its remote location and potential environmental concerns. Opening hours are by appointment only, with limited parking and basic amenities available.

Notable Views and Landscape

Rotten Island, a 30-acre (12-hectare) plot of land, is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. The island's unique ecosystem supports various flora and fauna.

Anecdotes and Folklore

  • The lighthouse has been involved in various shipwrecks throughout its operational period.
  • In 1872, a severe storm severely damaged the lighthouse, leading to its eventual reconstruction.
  • Few records remain of the lighthouse's former keepers, but stories and legends surrounding these individuals have been passed down through local oral tradition.

Technical and Operational Details

Current use: Heritage monument

Automation status: Unknown

Further Information

For further reading, refer to the Wikipedia article on Rotten Island Lighthouse.

Details

NameRotten Island Lighthouse
City
CountryIreland
Coordinates54.6145082, -8.4404578
Year of construction1853
Events1872 severe storm; various shipwrecks
Architectural styleVictorian
Architect[Name]
Construction material"Limestone and white render"
Focal height35
Tower height20
Heritage statustrue
Renovationssevere storm in 1872
Access descriptionBy appointment only
Accessiblefalse
Landscape typeIsland
View descriptionAtlantic Ocean
Guided toursfalse
FacilitiesBasic amenities
Opening hoursBy appointment only
Nearby attractions["Roshine Hill coastal towns"]
AIS Radarfalse
Light characteristic"Fl(3)W.15s"