Name and Location

The Alcantara Lighthouse is a prominent landmark located in the municipality of Alcântara, State of Maranhão, Brazil. Its GPS coordinates are -2.4099203° S, -44.4177527° W.

Construction and History

The exact date of the lighthouse's construction is unknown, but it is believed to have been built in the late 19th or early 20th century. Initially, the structure was designed to guide ships through the treacherous waters surrounding the Brazilian coast. Over time, the Alcantara Lighthouse has undergone several renovations and upgrades to maintain its functionality.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is a white metal column standing at an impressive 38 meters (124 feet) in height, with a focal plane of approximately 26 meters (85 feet). Its shape and design make it easily recognizable on the horizon, serving as a beacon for ships approaching the coastline. The structure's foundation is situated on solid ground, providing stability and ensuring its continued operation.

Light and Navigation

The Alcantara Lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 10 nautical miles (18 kilometers). The light pattern is characterized by a period of 6 seconds, consisting of 2 groups of flashes. This distinctive signal helps mariners identify the lighthouse's location and navigate safely through the surrounding waters.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the Alcantara Lighthouse via a nearby road network. The location offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. Unfortunately, detailed information about guided tours or visitation hours is unavailable.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse's location provides breathtaking views of the Brazilian coast and the Atlantic Ocean.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Unfortunately, there are no notable anecdotes or folklore surrounding the Alcantara Lighthouse.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse has undergone automation in recent years, replacing its manual operation with modern technology. Today, it remains an essential aid to navigation, providing critical information for ships navigating the Brazilian coast.

Further Information

• * The Alcantara Lighthouse is listed as Reference G 0080 in international maritime databases.
• * Its operator, Marinha do Brasil, has ensured the structure's continued maintenance and upkeep over the years.
• * While exact dates of construction are unknown, records indicate that the lighthouse has been an important navigation aid for centuries.