Crookhaven Lighthouse

The Crookhaven Lighthouse is situated at R591, on the southwestern tip of County Cork, Ireland.

Location and Accessibility

• The village of Crookhaven, where the lighthouse stands, has an out-of-season population of approximately sixty residents but swells to around four hundred during the summer season when seasonal holiday homes are occupied.

History

The Crookhaven Lighthouse was built in 1843. Its construction marked a significant milestone in maritime safety for the region, providing a beacon of light to aid navigation through treacherous coastal waters.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The lighthouse's design is characteristic of traditional Irish lighthouses, featuring a cylindrical tower with a distinctive lantern room at its summit. The structure is constructed from local limestone and granite, materials commonly used in Irish architecture during the 19th century. The tower stands approximately unknown meters tall.

Light Characteristics

• Main Light: A white light with a period of eight seconds, visible from a range of eleven nautical miles.
• Second Light: A red light with the same characteristics as the main light, but located at an angle to provide additional guidance for mariners approaching the coast from the east.
• Third Light: Another white light with the same specifications as the main light, positioned to serve vessels arriving on the western shore.

Current Status

The Crookhaven Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has undergone modernization efforts to improve its efficiency and reliability. The lighthouse is now automated, with a radio station broadcasting on MMSI 992501124.

Heritage Status

As a significant historical landmark and important component of Ireland's maritime heritage, the Crookhaven Lighthouse has been recognized for its cultural significance. Its designation as a notable example of Irish architecture and engineering serves as a testament to the country's rich history and tradition of innovation in the field of lighthouse design.

Notable Historical Events

The Crookhaven Lighthouse played a crucial role during World War II, serving as an important navigational aid for Allied forces navigating the treacherous waters off Ireland's coast.