Kadırga Feneri

The Kadırga Feneri, also known as Kadirga Lighthouse, has a rich history dating back to its construction.

History

• The lighthouse was built in 1907 by the Ottoman Public Works Administration (OPA) to serve as a navigational aid for mariners in the Dodecanese Islands.
• The Kadırga Feneri is a tall, white tower with a distinctive shape, standing at a height of approximately 39 meters.
• The lighthouse's focal height is believed to be around 60 meters, providing a clear view of the surrounding waters.

Architecture

The Kadırga Feneri is made of limestone and concrete, with a cylindrical body topped by a lantern room containing a first-order Fresnel lens.

Light Characteristics

• The Kadırga Feneri emits a distinctive "Fl" pattern, visible from a range of 12 nautical miles.
• The light's period is reported to be 15 seconds, with a sequence of flashes that repeat every minute and a half.
• The lighthouse's light color is white.

Current Status

The Kadırga Feneri is currently an active aid to navigation, although its operation may have been automated at some point in the past.

Location and Accessibility

• The Kadırga Feneri is located on Kumlubük Yolu, near the town of Marmaris in Turkey.
• The lighthouse can be accessed via a short walk from the nearby road, although visitors are advised to exercise caution when approaching the structure due to its height and potential hazards.

Heritage Status

The Kadırga Feneri is listed as a protected historical landmark by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, recognizing its importance as a navigational aid and cultural heritage site.

Notable Historical Events

• The Kadırga Feneri played an important role in the maritime history of the Dodecanese Islands during World War II.
• The lighthouse was used as a reference point for Allied naval forces during the war, and its location is still remembered today by local historians and enthusiasts.