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Teach Solais Thoraigh

7QF2+37 West Town, County Donegal, Ireland

Name and Location

Teach Solais Thoraigh, also known as Tory Island Lighthouse, is located on Tory Island, County Donegal, Ireland. The coordinates of this historic lighthouse are 55.2727308° N, -8.2493729° W.

Construction and History

Although the exact year of construction is unknown, historical records suggest that Teach Solais Thoraigh was built during the 19th century, likely between 1830 and 1850. The lighthouse has been guiding mariners for centuries and is a testament to maritime heritage.

Architecture and Materials

The Teach Solais Thoraigh lighthouse is a classic example of a Victorian-era tower, standing at approximately 40 meters (131 feet) tall with a focal height of around 27 meters (89 feet). Its construction materials include stone and brickwork.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse features a white light with a range of approximately 27 kilometers (17 miles), flashing every 30 seconds. The pattern is described as "Fl(3)W.15s", indicating three flashes followed by a 15-second pause.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds, although entering the tower itself is not possible due to safety concerns. The nearest town is Glenties, approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Tory Island. For those interested in exploring the island, guided tours are available during peak season.

Notable Views and Landscape

Tory Island is a small, rugged island located off the west coast of Ireland. Its wild Atlantic landscape, with towering cliffs and sandy beaches, makes it an ideal location for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Anecdotes and Folklore

No notable anecdotes or folklore are available about Teach Solais Thoraigh.

Technical and Operational Details

In the early 20th century, the lighthouse was automated, replacing its original manual operation. Today, it no longer serves as an active aid to navigation but has been preserved as a historic landmark.

Further Information

Details

NameTeach Solais Thoraigh
CityGlenties
CountryIreland
Coordinates55.2727308, -8.2493729
Year of construction1830, 1850
Eventsshipwrecks, rescues
Architectural styleVictorian-era tower
Construction materialstone, brickwork
Focal height27
Tower height40
Heritage statustrue
Renovationsautomated
Access descriptionGuided tours are available during peak season.
Accessibletrue
Landscape typerocky coast
View descriptionWild Atlantic landscape, with towering cliffs and sandy beaches.
Guided tourstrue
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
Light characteristicFl(3)W.15s
Light range17
Automatedtrue