Name and Location

The Forte Tamandaré Lighthouse is located in Urca, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at coordinates -22.9343148° S latitude and -43.1463773° W longitude.

Construction and History

The Forte Tamandaré Lighthouse was constructed during the reign of Emperor Pedro II of Brazil to improve maritime safety in the region. The lighthouse was built in 1867, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners and ships traversing Guanabara Bay.

Architecture and Materials

The Forte Tamandaré Lighthouse is a green truncated pyramidal concrete tower standing at a height of 30 meters (98 feet) with a focal plane of 17 meters (56 feet). The unique design was attributed to French engineer Captain Auguste Marie Louis Guillaume, who drew inspiration from European architectural styles. The concrete structure was chosen for its durability and resistance to harsh marine environments.

Light and Navigation

The Forte Tamandaré Lighthouse features an Iso (isophase) flash of green color, with a period of 2 seconds and a range of 11 nautical miles (20 kilometers). Originally a manual operation lighthouse, the beacon was automated in 1972. This light serves as a crucial reference point for mariners navigating the busy waters of Guanabara Bay.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds, which offer stunning views of Guanabara Bay and the surrounding cityscape.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse grounds provide breathtaking vistas of Guanabara Bay and the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Anecdotes and Folklore

The Forte Tamandaré Lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rio de Janeiro, often featured in local folklore and popular culture.

Technical and Operational Details

Originally a manual operation lighthouse, the beacon was automated in 1972. The original Fresnel lens was replaced with a more modern optic system in 1972.

Further Information

For further reading, consult the official documentation from the Brazilian Navy or the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities.