Dun Laoghaire East Lighthouse

The Dun Laoghaire East Lighthouse is a prominent maritime aid located on the West Pier of Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin, Ireland.

History

• The lighthouse was constructed in 1891 and has been an essential navigation aid for mariners entering the port of Dún Laoghaire ever since. Its strategic location allows it to guide vessels safely into the harbor.
• The lighthouse was built using local limestone and granite materials.

Architecture

The tower is a traditional Victorian-era lighthouse design, with a distinctive red-and-white striped exterior. The structure stands at 16 meters (52 feet) tall and features a prominent lantern room at its summit.

Light Characteristics

• The Dun Laoghaire East Lighthouse emits a distinctive red light that can be seen from a range of 17 nautical miles. The light is characterized by a unique sequence pattern, consisting of two short flashes followed by five long flashes, repeated every eight seconds.
• The lighthouse features a fog signal, emitting a horn-like sound at regular intervals.

Current Status

The Dun Laoghaire East Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its construction. The lighthouse is no longer used as a primary navigation aid, but it continues to serve as a notable landmark and historical monument in the area.

Location and Accessibility

The West Pier, where the lighthouse stands, offers stunning views of Dún Laoghaire Bay and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can access the pier via a pedestrian walkway or by boat. The lighthouse itself is not open to the public for tours, but its location makes it an ideal spot for photography and observation.

Heritage Status

The Dun Laoghaire East Lighthouse has been recognized as a protected monument in Ireland, reflecting its historical significance and importance as a navigational aid.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding Allied vessels into Dún Laoghaire harbor. Its strategic location allowed it to provide vital assistance to ships navigating the treacherous Irish coastline during this period.