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Phare du Mont Saint-Clair

Chemin du Phare

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Phare du Mont Saint-Clair

The Phare du Mont Saint-Clair is a historic lighthouse located on the coast of Sète, France. The structure's origins date back to the late 19th century, when it was built to serve as an aid to navigation for mariners.

History

  • The Phare du Mont Saint-Clair is a historic lighthouse located on the coast of Sète, France. The structure's origins date back to the late 19th century, when it was built to serve as an aid to navigation for mariners.
  • The tower stands at a height of 23 meters (75 feet) above sea level and has a focal height of 93 meters (305 feet).
  • The lighthouse is constructed from stone and features a distinctive white octagonal shape. The lantern room is dark green in color, adding to the structure's striking appearance.
  • The Phare du Mont Saint-Clair emits a powerful beam of light that can be seen for up to 27 nautical miles (50 kilometers).
  • The light pattern is characterized by a Fl (first order) signal with a period of five seconds. The light is visible in all directions, making it an essential aid to navigation for mariners.

Current Status

The Phare du Mont Saint-Clair is currently not operational and has been automated. However, the structure remains an important part of Sète's maritime heritage and is managed by the Phares et Balises organization.

Location and Accessibility

The lighthouse is situated on the Chemin du Phare in Sète, France. While it can be visited, access to the tower is restricted due to its sensitive location.

Heritage Status

The Phare du Mont Saint-Clair has been recognized as a significant cultural and historical landmark by the French government. It was listed as a Monument Historique (MHS) in 2011, acknowledging its importance to France's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

The Phare du Mont Saint-Clair played an important role during World War II, serving as a key aid to navigation for Allied forces. The structure's strategic location made it a vital component of the French Resistance's efforts to support the war effort.

Details

NamePhare du Mont Saint-Clair
CitySète
CountryFrance
Coordinates43.39564, 3.6898382
Current usenot operational
Accessiblefalse