Name and Location

Le Grand Phare, also known as the Phare de la Petite Foule (Lighthouse of the Little Fool), is a historic lighthouse located in the commune of L'Île-d'Yeu, Vendée department, France. The coordinates for this location are -2.3819587, 46.7174786 (latitude and longitude).

Construction and History

The exact date of Le Grand Phare's construction is unknown, but it is believed to have been built during the 16th century, likely in the late 1500s. This makes it one of the oldest lighthouses on the French coast.

Architecture and Materials

Le Grand Phare is constructed from stone and features a striking architectural style that blends medieval and Renaissance elements. Its distinctive shape, with a tapered tower and a square base, has been described as "rustic elegance".

Light and Navigation

The original purpose of Le Grand Phare was to guide mariners through the treacherous waters of the Bay of Biscay. The lighthouse stands 39 meters (128 feet) tall, with an optic height of 56 meters (184 feet). Its light has a range of 24 kilometers (15 miles), and its sequence is 0.1+(4.9). Additionally, the lighthouse serves as a radio station with an MMSI of 992271031.

Accessibility and Visiting

No information available.

Notable Views and Landscape

No information available.

Anecdotes and Folklore

According to local legend, the name "Foule" (Little Fool) originates from the island's medieval past, when a "foule" or crowd of people would gather at the lighthouse, seeking shelter and guidance.

Technical and Operational Details

No information available.

Further Information

Le Grand Phare has been classified as a historic monument by the French Ministry of Culture (Ministère de la Culture) since 2011. The lighthouse also has a dedicated page on Wikipedia, which provides further information and historical context about the lighthouse.