Name and Location

The Victoria Lighthouse is located at 660 Montreal St, Victoria, BC V8V 1Z8, Canada.

Construction and History

The Victoria Lighthouse was constructed in 1860 as part of a series of lighthouses built along the British Columbia coast to aid navigation. The original structure was designed by architect William Armstrong and built using local stone and wood. Over the years, the lighthouse has undergone several renovations, including a major restoration project in the 1990s.

Architecture and Materials

The Victoria Lighthouse is an excellent example of Victorian-era architecture, characterized by its square tower with a conical roof, flanking wings, and a distinctive lantern room. The structure's design was influenced by the British Isles' lighthouses, with a nod to the region's unique coastal landscape.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse stands at an impressive 24 meters (79 feet) tall, with a focal height of approximately 21 meters (69 feet). This height allowed for a range of over 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), providing mariners with a vital beacon in the busy waters of Victoria's harbor. The original light characteristic was a fixed white beam, which was later replaced by an occulting light pattern to improve visibility and reduce fog-related accidents.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse grounds through a pedestrian path that runs along the waterfront promenade. While the tower itself is not open to the public due to safety concerns, a small museum located within the lighthouse complex offers exhibits on maritime history and local lore.

Notable Views and Landscape

The Victoria Lighthouse is situated in a scenic area surrounded by parks, beaches, and historic buildings. Nearby attractions include the Fairmont Empress Hotel, Government Street, and the Inner Harbour.

Heritage Status

As a significant cultural and historical landmark, the Victoria Lighthouse has been recognized for its importance to the region's maritime heritage. In 2011, it was designated as a National Historic Site of Canada by the Canadian government.

Technical and Operational Details

In 1986, the Victoria Lighthouse became fully automated, eliminating the need for human keepers. Today, the lighthouse is maintained by the Canadian Coast Guard, ensuring its continued reliability as a vital aid to navigation. The coordinates are -123.3772492, 48.4245091 (WGS84), and a map link is available at unknown.