Sidi Bou Said Lighthouse

The Sidi Bou Said Lighthouse is situated in Tunis, Tunisia, at Impasse du Phare.

• Location and Accessibility:

The lighthouse is easily accessible by foot or by car, as it is located in the heart of the town.

History

The Sidi Bou Said Lighthouse was constructed in 1912, during the French colonial period.

• It played a crucial role in guiding ships through the Strait of Tunis, which separates Tunisia from its neighboring country, Libya.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The lighthouse is built using limestone and features a distinctive architectural style that blends traditional Tunisian elements with modern design.

• The tower's height is 22 meters (72 feet), while the focal height is 25 meters (82 feet).
• The light source is reportedly an oil-fired lamp, although the exact details of this are not available.

Light Characteristics

The Sidi Bou Said Lighthouse emits a fixed red light, visible from a distance of approximately 10 nautical miles.

• However, no specific information on the pattern or range of the light is available.

Current Status

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

The building now serves as a museum, showcasing the town's rich history and cultural heritage.

Heritage Status

The Sidi Bou Said Lighthouse has been recognized for its historical significance and is reportedly listed on various national and international heritage registers.

However, no specific information on these listings is available.

Notable Historical Events

While there are reports of a fire at the lighthouse in 1920, which damaged the tower's lantern room, no further details on this event are available.