Phare de Makemo

The Phare de Makemo, also known as Pouheva, is a historic lighthouse located on the island of Makemo in the Tuamotu-Gambier archipelago of French Polynesia.

History

• The construction of this lighthouse dates back to 1908.
• The Phare de Makemo played a significant role in the early 20th-century maritime trade between Europe and the Pacific Islands.
• During World War II, the lighthouse was used as a military outpost to monitor enemy movements in the region.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The tower height of the Phare de Makemo stands at 25 meters, while its focal height reaches an additional 20 meters above sea level. The light characteristics include a white light with a range of 18 nautical miles and a period of 5 seconds.

The lighthouse is constructed from traditional materials, including stone and wood.

Light Characteristics

The Phare de Makemo emits a Fl (first order) light, which serves as an important aid to navigation for mariners in the region.

Current Status

The Phare de Makemo remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated. The lighthouse is no longer used as a primary navigational aid due to advances in technology and modern aids to navigation.

Location and Accessibility

The Phare de Makemo is situated on the island of Makemo in the Tuamotu-Gambier archipelago, French Polynesia. Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby village of Makemo.

Heritage Status

The Phare de Makemo has been recognized as an important cultural and historical landmark by the French government. The lighthouse is listed on the French national inventory of historic monuments.

Notable Historical Events

• The Phare de Makemo played a significant role in the early 20th-century maritime trade between Europe and the Pacific Islands.
• During World War II, the lighthouse was used as a military outpost to monitor enemy movements in the region.