Phare de Saint-Gervais

The Phare de Saint-Gervais, located on the coast of France, has a rich history dating back to its construction.

History

• The lighthouse was built in 1857 and played a crucial role in maritime navigation during the 19th century.
• The Phare de Saint-Gervais is currently an automated lighthouse, with its light source powered by solar panels and batteries.

Architecture

• The tower height of the Phare de Saint-Gervais is 51 meters (167 feet), while the focal height reaches approximately 63 meters (207 feet) into the air.
• The construction materials used for the Phare de Saint-Gervais include stone, brick, and iron.

Light Characteristics

• The Phare de Saint-Gervais features a first-order Fresnel lens, which provides a powerful beam of light that can be seen from a distance of up to 20 nautical miles.
• The light pattern is a rotating beam, allowing it to be adjusted according to the needs of mariners.

Current Status

The Phare de Saint-Gervais has been recognized as a heritage site by the French government, with its inscription date recorded as 2012-06-21.

Location and Accessibility

• The Phare de Saint-Gervais is located on the coast of Fos-sur-Mer, a town in the Bouches-du-Rhône department of southern France.
• The lighthouse can be accessed via the Chemin du Douanier, which leads to a small parking area near the structure.

Heritage Status

The Phare de Saint-Gervais is listed on the National Register of Historical Monuments (ANFR), with reference number 933475.

Notable Historical Events

• The Phare de Saint-Gervais played an important role in the maritime history of France, particularly during World War II.
• In 1944, the lighthouse was used as a beacon for Allied forces landing on the French coast.

Architecture

• The building's design is characteristic of the mid-19th century French lighthouses, with a focus on functionality and safety.

Light Characteristics

• The light pattern is a rotating beam, allowing it to be adjusted according to the needs of mariners.

Current Status

The Phare de Saint-Gervais features a first-order Fresnel lens, which provides a powerful beam of light that can be seen from a distance of up to 20 nautical miles.

Location and Accessibility

• The lighthouse is located on the coast of Fos-sur-Mer, a town in the Bouches-du-Rhône department of southern France.
• The Phare de Saint-Gervais can be accessed via the Chemin du Douanier, which leads to a small parking area near the structure.

Heritage Status

The Phare de Saint-Gervais has been recognized as a heritage site by the French government, with its inscription date recorded as 2012-06-21.

Notable Historical Events

• The Phare de Saint-Gervais played an important role in the maritime history of France, particularly during World War II.
• In 1944, the lighthouse was used as a beacon for Allied forces landing on the French coast.