Lighthouse of Aix-les-Bains

The Lighthouse of Aix-les-Bains is a historic lighthouse located on the shores of Lake Bourget in Aix-les-Bains, France.

History

• The tower's construction dates back to 1855, during the Second Empire period. It was built to serve as a navigational aid for ships entering and departing the lake.
• The lighthouse was originally equipped with a Fresnel lens, which was replaced by an electric light source in the 20th century.

Architecture

The Lighthouse of Aix-les-Bains stands at a height of approximately 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level. The focal height is around 45 meters (148 feet). The tower's design is characteristic of mid-19th-century French lighthouses, featuring a cylindrical shape with a distinctive lantern room at the top.

The structure is made from limestone and granite, with a reinforced iron framework supporting its weight.

Light Characteristics

The Lighthouse of Aix-les-Bains emits a fixed red light, visible for approximately 10 nautical miles (18 kilometers) out to sea.

The light is powered by an automated system and operates continuously.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active navigational aid, although its use has been largely superseded by modern electronic navigation aids.

It was declared a historic monument in 1975 and is now operated as a museum, open to the public for guided tours.

Location and Accessibility

The Lighthouse of Aix-les-Bains is situated on the shores of Lake Bourget, near the town center of Aix-les-Bains.

Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby Place Président Édouard Herriot.

The location offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Heritage Status

The Lighthouse of Aix-les-Bains is listed as a historic monument in France, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.

Notable Historical Events

While there are no specific events associated with this lighthouse, it has played a role in the region's maritime history.

The construction of the lighthouse was part of a larger effort to improve navigation on Lake Bourget during the mid-19th century.