Name and Location

The Robben Island Lighthouse is located on Robben Island, off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa. The island is approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) west of Cape Town's city center and is accessible by ferry from the mainland.

Construction and History

The Robben Island Lighthouse was built in 1864 to guide ships safely into Table Bay, one of the busiest ports in South Africa. It was designed by British engineer Captain William F. Halsey and constructed by a team of skilled craftsmen. Initially, the lighthouse was powered by a kerosene lamp, but it was later converted to electric operation in 1925.

Architecture and Materials

The Robben Island Lighthouse stands at an impressive 47 meters (154 feet) tall, with a focal height of 45 meters (148 feet). The structure is made of brick and stone, with a distinctive red-and-white striped tower. The original lantern room was designed to accommodate a first-order Fresnel lens.

Light and Navigation

The Robben Island Lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime navigation for centuries. Initially, the lighthouse provided a light range of approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) using a kerosene lamp. Later, it was converted to electric operation, replacing the original Fresnel lens with modern LED technology.

Accessibility and Visiting

The Robben Island Lighthouse is currently managed by the South African National Parks (SANParks) as part of the Robben Island Museum Complex. Visitors can access the lighthouse's exterior as part of a guided tour on Robben Island. Tours are available daily, with limited hours during peak season.

Notable Views and Landscape

From the lighthouse's vantage point, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Table Bay, the Cape Town skyline, and the surrounding Atlantic Ocean. Robben Island is a natural reserve and national monument, home to various wildlife species, including seabirds, seals, and penguins.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Robben Island has a rich history of shipwrecks, smuggling, and isolation. The lighthouse's location near the infamous Cape of Good Hope has made it a significant landmark for mariners navigating the treacherous seas around Africa. During World War II, the lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships during times of war.

Technical and Operational Details

The Robben Island Lighthouse was automated in the 1980s, replacing its original Fresnel lens with modern LED technology. It is not equipped with AIS (Automatic Identification System) or radar installations. The lighthouse's light range has been reduced over time, but it remains an important cultural and historical landmark.

Further Information

The Robben Island Lighthouse has been featured in various publications and media outlets, including books, articles, and online platforms. It is recognized as a National Heritage Site in South Africa, celebrated for its cultural and historical significance.