Inishowen Lighthouse

The Inishowen Lighthouse is situated on the northernmost point of the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal, Ireland. The address for this location is L1471.

History

• The Inishowen Lighthouse has a long history dating back to its construction in 1858 by the Commissioners of Irish Lights. It was designed to serve as a navigational aid for mariners approaching the treacherous coastline of the peninsula.
• It remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The lighthouse stands at a height of 28 meters (92 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of 61 meters (200 feet). The tower is constructed from limestone and features a distinctive green glass lens. The light source consists of three rotating lights: two white flashes every 10 seconds, separated by 2 minutes, and one red flash every 10 seconds.

Light Characteristics

The Inishowen Lighthouse emits a distinctive pattern of white and red flashes to guide mariners safely into the harbor. The range of the light is reported to be 14 nautical miles (26 kilometers) for the white flashes and 18 nautical miles (33 kilometers) for the red flash.

Current Status

The Inishowen Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its installation. It continues to serve as a vital navigational aid for mariners approaching the coast of County Donegal.

Heritage Status

The Inishowen Lighthouse is listed on the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage and is considered a significant historical landmark in Ireland.

Notable Historical Events

While there are no specific notable events associated with the Inishowen Lighthouse, it has played an important role in the maritime history of County Donegal. The lighthouse's location at the northernmost point of the peninsula makes it a critical navigational aid for mariners approaching the treacherous coastline.

Inishowen Peninsula

The Inishowen Peninsula is a scenic and historic region in County Donegal, Ireland. It includes the Grianan of Aileach, a ringfort that served as the royal seat of the over-kingdom of Ailech. The peninsula is also home to Malin Head, Ireland's most northerly point.