Roman Rock Lighthouse

The Roman Rock Lighthouse was first exhibited on 16 September 1861, marking its entry into service as a vital aid to navigation in False Bay. The lighthouse has played a significant role in maritime history, serving as a beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Cape of Good Hope.

Architecture

• The Roman Rock Lighthouse is notable for being built on a single rock, making it a unique structure in South Africa's lighthouse landscape. The tower stands at a height of 17 meters (56 feet) above sea level and has a focal height of 20 meters (66 feet), providing an impressive visual presence.

Light Characteristics

The Roman Rock Lighthouse emits a white light with a characteristic pattern, visible to mariners from a range of 20 nautical miles. The light is powered by electricity, which was introduced in 1992 at the request of the South African Navy.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation has been automated over the years. While it continues to serve as a vital navigational aid, its primary function has shifted from manual operation to automated monitoring and maintenance.

Location and Accessibility

Located on Penguin Viewing Path in Simon's Town, South Africa, the Roman Rock Lighthouse is easily accessible by land or sea. Visitors can view the lighthouse from the surrounding area, although access to the tower itself may be restricted due to safety concerns.

Heritage Status

The Roman Rock Lighthouse has been recognized for its historical significance and cultural importance. While specific details regarding its heritage status are not available, it is clear that this structure holds a special place in South Africa's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

While specific events related to the Roman Rock Lighthouse are not documented, its presence during the 19th century highlights the importance of lighthouses in navigating the treacherous waters of False Bay. The introduction of electricity in 1992 marked a significant shift in the lighthouse's operation and maintenance.

History

• The Roman Rock Lighthouse was first exhibited on 16 September 1861, marking its entry into service as a vital aid to navigation in False Bay. The lighthouse has played a significant role in maritime history, serving as a beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Cape of Good Hope.

Architecture

• The Roman Rock Lighthouse is notable for being built on a single rock, making it a unique structure in South Africa's lighthouse landscape. The tower stands at a height of 17 meters (56 feet) above sea level and has a focal height of 20 meters (66 feet), providing an impressive visual presence.

Light Characteristics

The Roman Rock Lighthouse emits a white light with a characteristic pattern, visible to mariners from a range of 20 nautical miles. The light is powered by electricity, which was introduced in 1992 at the request of the South African Navy.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation has been automated over the years. While it continues to serve as a vital navigational aid, its primary function has shifted from manual operation to automated monitoring and maintenance.

Location and Accessibility

Located on Penguin Viewing Path in Simon's Town, South Africa, the Roman Rock Lighthouse is easily accessible by land or sea. Visitors can view the lighthouse from the surrounding area, although access to the tower itself may be restricted due to safety concerns.

Heritage Status

The Roman Rock Lighthouse has been recognized for its historical significance and cultural importance. While specific details regarding its heritage status are not available, it is clear that this structure holds a special place in South Africa's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

While specific events related to the Roman Rock Lighthouse are not documented, its presence during the 19th century highlights the importance of lighthouses in navigating the treacherous waters of False Bay. The introduction of electricity in 1992 marked a significant shift in the lighthouse's operation and maintenance.

Heritage Status

The Roman Rock Lighthouse has been recognized for its historical significance and cultural importance. While specific details regarding its heritage status are not available, it is clear that this structure holds a special place in South Africa's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

• While specific events related to the Roman Rock Lighthouse are not documented, its presence during the 19th century highlights the importance of lighthouses in navigating the treacherous waters of False Bay. The introduction of electricity in 1992 marked a significant shift in the lighthouse's operation and maintenance.