Cape Hermes Lighthouse

The Cape Hermes Lighthouse is a prominent maritime aid located on the southeastern coast of South Africa.

History

• The lighthouse was constructed in 1913, serving as an essential navigation aid for mariners traversing the treacherous coastline.

Architecture and Construction

The tower stands at a height of 55 meters (180 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 65 meters (213 feet). The structure is built from local stone and mortar, with a distinctive cylindrical shape. The lighthouse features a prominent lantern room housing a first-order Fresnel lens.

Light Characteristics

The Cape Hermes Lighthouse emits a flashing white light, visible up to 21 nautical miles (39 kilometers) out to sea. The light's period is reported to be 3 seconds.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation may have been automated at some point in the past.

Location and Accessibility

Located on Golf Course Drive within the Port St Johns Local Municipality, the Cape Hermes Lighthouse can be accessed via a public road. The site is situated near the town of Port St Johns, approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the Indian Ocean coast.

Heritage Status

The lighthouse has been recognized as a significant cultural and historical landmark in South Africa.

Notable Historical Events

• No notable events have been recorded for this location.