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St Ives Light

Smeaton's Pier

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St Ives Light (St. Ives)
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

St Ives Light

The St Ives Light is situated on Smeaton's Pier, located in the town of St. Ives, Cornwall, United Kingdom.

The pier offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline.

History

  • The St Ives Light was constructed in 1890, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners navigating the treacherous waters off the Cornish coast.
  • Over the years, the lighthouse has undergone several restorations and renovations to ensure its continued operation.

Architecture

The St Ives Light is a characteristic example of a Victorian-era lighthouse, featuring a white plaster tower with a distinctive green glass lens.

The lighthouse stands at an impressive 8 meters (26 feet) tall, while the focal height reaches 5 meters (16 feet).

Light Characteristics

The St Ives Light emits a powerful beam of light, visible up to 5 nautical miles.

The light's characteristic pattern is marked by an 'F' symbol, indicating its presence as a major aid to navigation.

Current Status

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

While the lighthouse no longer serves as a manned station, it continues to play a vital role in guiding mariners safely through the waters off Cornwall.

Heritage Status

The St Ives Light is listed on the National Heritage List for England, recognizing its historical significance and architectural importance.

Notable Historical Events

  • The St Ives Light has played a crucial role in several notable maritime incidents throughout its history.
  • Notably, the lighthouse was instrumental in guiding ships safely through the treacherous waters off the Cornish coast during World War II.

Details

NameSt Ives Light
CitySt. Ives
CountryUnited Kingdom
Coordinates50.21347, -5.4767137
Current useActive aid to navigation