Name and Location

Cape Point Lighthouse Located at the southernmost tip of Africa, Cape Point Lighthouse is situated within the beautiful Cape Peninsula, South Africa.

Construction and History

The Cape Point Lighthouse was constructed between 1896 and 1897 to replace an earlier lighthouse that stood at the same location. The original tower was 46 meters (151 feet) tall, but it was later extended in 1935 to its current height of 87 meters (285 feet).

Architecture and Materials

The Cape Point Lighthouse is a striking example of Victorian-era architecture, with a distinctive tower featuring a square base and a tapering cylindrical shape. The lighthouse's structure is made of sandstone and concrete.

Light and Navigation

The Cape Point Lighthouse emits a characteristic Fl(3)W.15s light pattern, which flashes every 30 seconds for 10 seconds, followed by an eclipse for 20 seconds. The beam has a range of approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles), illuminating the waters around the Cape Peninsula.

Accessibility and Visiting

The lighthouse was originally operated manually by a keeper until it was automated in 1970. Today, visitors can climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline. The lighthouse is situated within the Table Mountain National Park, making it an integral part of South Africa's rich cultural and natural heritage.

Notable Views and Landscape

The surrounding landscape features unique fynbos vegetation and a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors can access the lighthouse and its surroundings by car or on foot via the Cape Point Nature Reserve.

Anecdotes and Folklore

One notable event in the history of the Cape Point Lighthouse was the wreck of the HMS Birkenhead in 1852, which led to the establishment of a new lighthouse at the location.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse has been designated as a National Monument by the South African government. It is managed by the Table Mountain National Park, a protected area under the jurisdiction of the South African National Parks (SANParks) organization.

Further Information

Visitors can access the lighthouse and its surroundings by car or on foot via the Cape Point Nature Reserve. Opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with guided tours available. On-site facilities include a gift shop, picnic areas, and walking trails.