Faro Punta San Juan

The Faro Punta San Juan is a historic lighthouse located on the coast of Peru, serving as a vital aid to navigation and a testament to the country's rich maritime history.

Overview

• Built in 1911, the Faro Punta San Juan has stood watch over the coastline for nearly a century. Originally constructed to assist mariners navigating the treacherous waters off Marcona, the lighthouse played a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce between Peru and other nations.
• The lighthouse is an imposing structure, standing at 25 meters (82 feet) tall from its foundation to the top of the lantern room. Its distinctive design features a cylindrical tower with a square base, supporting a rotating Fresnel lens that projects a beam of light up to 20 nautical miles into the surrounding waters.

History

The Faro Punta San Juan is an imposing structure, standing at 25 meters (82 feet) tall from its foundation to the top of the lantern room. Its distinctive design features a cylindrical tower with a square base, supporting a rotating Fresnel lens that projects a beam of light up to 20 nautical miles into the surrounding waters.

The lighthouse is constructed from local stone and mortar, with a rust-resistant steel framework providing added stability in the harsh coastal environment. The lantern room itself is painted a distinctive shade of red, serving as a beacon for passing vessels.

Light Characteristics

The Faro Punta San Juan emits a fixed white light, visible to mariners during both day and night. The lighthouse's Fresnel lens projects a beam that extends up to 20 nautical miles into the surrounding waters, providing critical guidance for ships navigating the treacherous coastline.

Current Status

Currently, the Faro Punta San Juan is no longer an active aid to navigation. While it remains in good condition, its role has been largely supplanted by modern aids to navigation and automated systems. However, the lighthouse continues to be maintained as a historic landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into Peru's rich maritime past.

Location and Accessibility

Located on Avenida Los Topacios in Marcona, Peru, the Faro Punta San Juan is easily accessible by road or public transportation. Visitors can explore the lighthouse and its surrounding grounds, taking in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastline beyond.

Heritage Status

Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the Faro Punta San Juan is recognized for its cultural and historical significance. The lighthouse has been included on various lists of Peru's most important architectural and engineering achievements, solidifying its place in the country's rich heritage.

Notable Historical Events

The Faro Punta San Juan played a significant role during World War II, serving as a vital aid to navigation for Allied forces operating in the region. The lighthouse also served as a key location for the Peruvian military during the 1980s, hosting various training exercises and operations.