Faro de Orchilla

The Faro de Orchilla, located on the island of El Hierro in Spain, was constructed in 1933.

History

• The Faro de Orchilla played a crucial role in maritime navigation and served as a vital aid to ships traversing the Atlantic Ocean.
• The lighthouse's construction marked an important milestone in maritime navigation on the Atlantic coast.

Architecture

The Faro de Orchilla stands at a height of 25 meters (82 feet) above sea level. Its focal height is 132 meters (433 feet), providing an impressive beam that can be seen from considerable distances.

The lighthouse's architectural style is characteristic of Spanish coastal structures, with a cylindrical tower and a distinctive lantern room.

Light Characteristics

The Faro de Orchilla emits a white light with a range of 24 nautical miles.

• The lighthouse's light pattern consists of a sequence of flashes, with a period of 5 seconds between each flash.
• The lighthouse's light is characterized by a Fl (flash) sequence, indicating its use as a major aid to navigation.

Current Status

The Faro de Orchilla remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated in recent years.

The lighthouse's status as a working lighthouse ensures that mariners continue to benefit from its reliable guidance.

Location and Accessibility

The Faro de Orchilla is situated at the address HI-503 on the island of El Hierro, Spain.

The town of El Pinar de El Hierro is nearby, providing easy access to amenities and services for visitors.

Heritage Status

As a significant historical landmark, the Faro de Orchilla has been recognized by Spanish authorities as an important cultural and architectural heritage site.

Their preservation ensures that future generations can appreciate its historical significance.

Notable Historical Events

• The construction of the Faro de Orchilla in 1933 marked an important milestone in maritime navigation on the Atlantic coast.
• The lighthouse's role in guiding ships safely into port has been invaluable to sailors and fishermen over the years, contributing significantly to the island's rich history and cultural identity.