Phare de l'Ilette

Located on the French Riviera, the Phare de l'Ilette is a historic lighthouse situated in Antibes, a charming town in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France.

Overview

• The Phare de l'Ilette was constructed in 1858 to serve as a navigational aid for ships entering the port of Antibes.
• The tower's strategic location on the rocky outcrop known as Ilette provides an ideal vantage point for monitoring maritime traffic and warning vessels of potential hazards.

History

The Phare de l'Ilette is a classic example of 19th-century French lighthouse design, featuring a cylindrical tower with a distinctive lantern room at its summit.

The structure is built from limestone and granite, with a sturdy foundation that has withstood the test of time.

The tower's height is approximately 25 meters (82 feet), while the focal height reaches an impressive 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level.

Light Characteristics

The Phare de l'Ilette emits a distinctive pattern of two red flashes every 60 seconds, visible from a distance of up to 20 nautical miles.

The light's range is sufficient to guide vessels safely into the port of Antibes, even in low-visibility conditions.

Current Status

The Phare de l'Ilette remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been largely automated over the years.

While still operational, the lighthouse no longer serves as a primary navigational aid due to advances in modern technology.

Location and Accessibility

The Phare de l'Ilette is situated on the Chemin de la Mosquée in Antibes, near the town's historic center.

Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby beach or by public transportation.

Heritage Status

The Phare de l'Ilette has been recognized as an important cultural and historical landmark in France, with its designation as a "Monument Historique" (Historic Monument) reflecting its significance to the country's rich maritime heritage.

Notable Historical Events

During World War II, the Phare de l'Ilette played a crucial role in guiding Allied forces into the port of Antibes.

The lighthouse's strategic location also made it an important site for French resistance fighters, who used the tower as a hiding place and observation post.