Phare de la Mortella

The Phare de la Mortella is a historic lighthouse located on the French island of Corsica.

History

• The construction began in 1847 and was completed by 1850, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in France.
• Its construction began in 1847 and was completed by 1850, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in France.

Architecture

The tower height of the Phare de la Mortella stands at approximately 43 meters (141 feet).

• The focal height, which is the distance from the base of the lens to the center of the light, reaches 63 meters (207 feet) above sea level.

Light Characteristics

The Phare de la Mortella features a green glass Fresnel lens that emits a characteristic "Oc" sequence, indicating an occulting light.

• The light has a range of 8 nautical miles and operates on a period of 4 minutes.

Current Status

The Phare de la Mortella remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation.

• In recent years, the lighthouse has undergone significant restoration work to ensure its continued operation and preservation as a historic landmark.

Location and Accessibility

Located on the western coast of Corsica, the Phare de la Mortella is situated near the town of Saint-Florent.

• The lighthouse can be accessed via the Route de Fornali, which provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Heritage Status

The Phare de la Mortella is listed as a historic monument in France, recognizing its importance as a navigational aid and cultural landmark.

• The lighthouse has been designated as a "Monument Historique" since 1993, ensuring its protection and preservation for future generations.

Notable Historical Events

During World War II, the Phare de la Mortella played a significant role in guiding Allied forces through the Mediterranean Sea.

• The lighthouse's location made it an ideal spot for monitoring enemy movements and providing navigation assistance to troops.