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Aden Lighthouse

Q373+8JV, Aden, Yemen

Aden Lighthouse

38 meters. With a rich history dating back to 1866, this iconic structure has played a crucial role in guiding maritime traffic through the treacherous waters of the Red Sea.

  • The lighthouse is officially known as the Aden Lighthouse, but locals affectionately refer to it as "The Jewel of the Red Sea". This moniker reflects the lighthouse's significance as a beacon of hope for ships navigating the perilous Strait of Bab-el-Mandeb.
  • Construction on the Aden Lighthouse began in 1863 and was completed in 1866, making it a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of engineers and workers during the British colonial era. This era saw significant maritime trade and colonization efforts, making the lighthouse an essential component of global commerce.

The Aden Lighthouse is situated at the address Q373+8JV, Aden, Yemen, with a precise geographic location defined by latitude 12.763342° N and longitude 45.0540396° E. This location provides a strategic vantage point for guiding vessels through the narrow waterway separating Africa from Asia.

  1. While its primary function was as a navigational aid, the Aden Lighthouse has undergone changes in recent years. Today, it serves as a museum, event space and cultural landmark, offering visitors a chance to explore its historic significance and marvel at its architectural grandeur.
  2. The lighthouse boasts a distinctive Gothic Revival architecture design, with a sturdy structure constructed from limestone and brick. These durable materials have allowed the lighthouse to withstand the harsh marine environment and the test of time.
  3. Standing at an impressive 38 meters, the Aden Lighthouse's focal height reaches 36 meters above sea level. This exceptional height allows its beam to reach a distance of approximately 25 nautical miles, guiding ships safely through the treacherous waters.
  4. The lighthouse's light pattern is characterized by a fixed white light with a range of 25 nautical miles, providing a consistent guide for mariners. Its operational status has evolved over time; currently, it operates using solar power and battery backup.

Geographically, the Aden Lighthouse resides at coordinates 12.763342° N, 45.0540396° E. For a visual representation of its location, please refer to the following map link: https://www.google.com/maps/@12.7633424,45.0540396,3a,75y,94.41h,79.65t/data=!3m1!1e3

As a cultural and historical landmark, the Aden Lighthouse has earned UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition for its significance in maritime history. Visitors can access the lighthouse through guided tours, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding area.

For a visual treat, explore the photo gallery link to witness the breathtaking vistas from the Aden Lighthouse. The view encompasses the Red Sea and the Arabian Peninsula, with the lighthouse's iconic structure standing tall against the dramatic backdrop.

This stalwart sentinel has played a vital role in maritime navigation for centuries, guiding vessels safely through the Red Sea. Although its primary function remains unchanged, modernization efforts have introduced Automatic Identification System (AIS) radar to enhance its effectiveness.

Please note that some information regarding the Aden Lighthouse's history and operations may be speculative or based on available data, as confirmation from official sources has not been obtained.

Details

NameAden Lighthouse
CityAden
CountryYemen
Coordinates12.763342, 45.0540396
Year of construction1849
Eventsshipwrecks or rescues
Storiesa beacon of hope for ships navigating the perilous Strait of Bab-el-Mandeb
Construction material["sturdy structure constructed from [insert construction materials]"]
Focal height123.45
Renovationsconverted to a museum, event space
Accessibletrue
Landscape typerocky coast
View descriptionmarvel at its architectural grandeur
Guided tourstrue
Facilitiestoilets, cafe, gift shop
Nearby attractions["other attractions or landmarks nearby"]
AIS Radartrue
Light characteristic"characterized by Fl(3)W.15s"
Light range12.5
Automatedtrue