Faro de San Felipe

The Faro de San Felipe is a historic lighthouse located in San Felipe, Mexico.

History

• The construction of the Faro de San Felipe began in 1933 and was completed in 1935.
• The lighthouse has played a crucial role in maritime navigation, particularly for ships traveling along the Baja California Peninsula.

Architecture

The tower height of the Faro de San Felipe stands at approximately 30 meters (98 feet).

The focal height, which is the distance from the base of the tower to the top of the light source, reaches an impressive 55 meters (180 feet) into the sky.

The lighthouse's architecture is characterized by a distinctive cylindrical shape with a square base and a conical roof.

Light Characteristics

The Faro de San Felipe emits a powerful beam of light that can be seen up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) away.

The light source is mounted at an elevation of 25 meters (82 feet) above sea level, and its pattern is characterized by a rotating flash every 10 seconds.

Current Status

The Faro de San Felipe remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the 1990s.

In recent years, the lighthouse has undergone significant restoration work to ensure its continued operation and preservation for future generations.

Location and Accessibility

The Faro de San Felipe is situated on Calle Guaymas in the town of San Felipe, Baja California Sur, Mexico.

The lighthouse is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and visitors can park nearby at designated areas.

Heritage Status

The Faro de San Felipe has been recognized as a National Monument of Mexico since 1998, acknowledging its cultural and historical significance.

In addition, the lighthouse has been listed on the Mexican Inventory of Cultural Patrimony (ICP), which aims to preserve and protect the country's rich cultural heritage.

Notable Historical Events

The Faro de San Felipe played a significant role in the maritime history of Baja California Peninsula during World War II.

In 1942, the lighthouse served as a vital aid to navigation for Allied forces, helping them navigate the treacherous waters off the coast of Mexico.