Dun Laoghaire West Lighthouse

The Dun Laoghaire West Lighthouse is situated on the West Pier in Dún Laoghaire, Ireland.

Location and Accessibility

• The pier itself is a popular destination for walkers and cyclists, offering stunning views of Dublin Bay.

The Dun Laoghaire West Lighthouse was built in 1859 by the Commissioners of Irish Lights to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering the bay.

History

• Its construction was part of a larger effort to improve maritime safety in Ireland's busy ports.

The Dun Laoghaire West Lighthouse is a distinctive, octagonal tower with a characteristic green color.

The structure is constructed from limestone and features a prominent lantern room at its top.

The lighthouse stands 11 meters tall, while the focal height – the distance from the base of the lens to the sea surface – reaches approximately 21 meters.

Light Characteristics

• The Dun Laoghaire West Lighthouse emits a green light with a specific sequence: Fl(1) + (1) + Fl(5).
• The light has a range of 7 nautical miles and is visible for an period of 8 seconds.

This pattern helps mariners navigate the treacherous waters of Dublin Bay.

Current Status

The Dun Laoghaire West Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its construction.

The lighthouse is no longer used as a primary navigational aid due to advances in technology and the increasing use of electronic charts.

Heritage Status

• The Dun Laoghaire West Lighthouse was designated as a protected structure under Ireland's National Monuments Record in 1992.

This designation recognizes the lighthouse's historical significance and importance to the country's cultural heritage.

Notable Historical Events

• While there is limited information available on specific events associated with the Dun Laoghaire West Lighthouse, its construction during the mid-19th century reflects the growing importance of maritime trade in Ireland at that time.
• The lighthouse played a crucial role in ensuring safe passage for ships navigating Dublin Bay.