Phare de Port-Navalo

The Phare de Port-Navalo, also known as the Tour-tan Porzh Noaloù, has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1857.

History

• The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering the port of Port Navalo, located on the coast of Brittany.
• The Phare de Port-Navalo has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1857.

Architecture

The Phare de Port-Navalo is a distinctive tower structure with a total height of 25 meters (82 feet). Its focal height, which is the distance from the base of the lens to the center of the light source, reaches an impressive 30 meters (98 feet).

• The lighthouse's architecture is characteristic of the mid-19th century, featuring a cylindrical shape with a distinctive lantern room at its top.
• The tower is constructed from limestone and granite blocks, which were chosen for their durability and resistance to the harsh marine environment.

Light Characteristics

The Phare de Port-Navalo is equipped with a powerful light source that emits a characteristic pattern of red and green flashes.

• The light has a range of approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 km), making it an essential aid for mariners navigating the coast of Brittany.

Current Status

The Phare de Port-Navalo remains an active aid to navigation, although its role has been supplemented by more modern aids such as radar and electronic navigation systems.

• The lighthouse is still maintained by the French authorities and continues to serve as a vital part of the country's maritime infrastructure.

Location and Accessibility

The Phare de Port-Navalo is located on the coast of Brittany, in the town of Port Navalo.

• The lighthouse can be accessed via a short walk from the nearby Rue du Phare, which is marked with a distinctive sign bearing the name "Phare de Port-Navalo".
• Visitors can view the lighthouse from the outside and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

Heritage Status

The Phare de Port-Navalo has been designated as a historic monument by the French authorities, recognizing its importance as a navigational aid and its contribution to the country's maritime heritage.

• The lighthouse is also listed on the National Inventory of Historic Monuments (Inventaire des Monuments Historiques), which provides further recognition of its cultural significance.

Notable Historical Events

The Phare de Port-Navalo played an important role in the history of navigation in Brittany, serving as a vital aid for mariners during World War II.

• The lighthouse was also used as a reference point by Allied forces during the war, and its location is still marked on some maps from that period.

Today

The Phare de Port-Navalo remains an important part of the region's maritime heritage, attracting visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its stunning architecture and rich history.