Phare de la Jetée Saint-Nicolas

The Phare de la Jetée Saint-Nicolas is situated on the Jetée Saint-Nicolas, located in Les Sables-d'Olonne, France. The lighthouse can be accessed by road or on foot from the nearby town.

Location and Accessibility

• The Phare de la Jetée Saint-Nicolas is situated on the Jetée Saint-Nicolas, located in Les Sables-d'Olonne, France.
• The lighthouse can be accessed by road or on foot from the nearby town.

History

1. The Phare de la Jetée Saint-Nicolas was constructed in 1855 as part of a series of coastal defenses to protect the port of Les Sables-d'Olonne from naval threats.
2. The lighthouse has undergone several restorations and renovations over the years, with the most recent being in the early 20th century.

Architecture

The Phare de la Jetée Saint-Nicolas is a single-level, red-roofed tower with a distinctive dome-shaped roof. The structure is made of stone and features a striking red coloration that can be seen from a distance.

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse emits a red light with a range of 8 nautical miles (15 km) and a focal height of 16 meters (52 feet). The light's pattern is horizontal, indicating its orientation towards the sea.

Current Status

The Phare de la Jetée Saint-Nicolas is no longer an active aid to navigation. However, it has been preserved as a historic landmark and can be visited by the public.

Heritage Status

The Phare de la Jetée Saint-Nicolas is listed as a protected historical monument in France, recognizing its significance as a coastal defense structure and iconic lighthouse.

Notable Historical Events

1. During World War II, the Phare de la Jetée Saint-Nicolas played an important role as a lookout point for French naval forces. The lighthouse's strategic location allowed it to monitor enemy ships approaching the port of Les Sables-d'Olonne.