Faro Colonia Del Sacramento

The Faro Colonia Del Sacramento is a historic lighthouse located in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay.

History

• The construction of this lighthouse began in 1857 and was completed in 1860. It has played a significant role in the maritime history of the region, serving as an aid to navigation for ships traversing the Rio de la Plata.
• The Faro Colonia Del Sacramento played a crucial role during the Chaco War (1932-1935), serving as a key location for military operations between Argentina and Paraguay. The lighthouse also saw use during World War II, providing aid to Allied ships navigating the Rio de la Plata.

Architecture

The Faro Colonia Del Sacramento stands at a height of 26.92 meters (88 feet) above sea level and has a focal height of 34 meters (112 feet). The lighthouse is constructed from stone and features a distinctive architectural style that reflects its purpose as a navigational aid.

Light Characteristics

The Faro Colonia Del Sacramento emits a red light with a range of 10.7 nautical miles (19.8 kilometers). The light has a period of 9 seconds and is characterized by a flashing sequence of 0.9+(8.1) flashes per minute.

Current Status

The Faro Colonia Del Sacramento remains an active aid to navigation, operated by the Servicio de Iluminación y Balizamiento de la Armada - SERBA. The lighthouse continues to play a vital role in maritime safety and is still used today as a navigational aid for ships traversing the region.

Location

The Faro Colonia Del Sacramento is located at De San Francisco, Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay. Visitors can access the lighthouse by car or on foot, with parking available nearby.

Visiting Information

Visitors to the Faro Colonia Del Sacramento can explore the lighthouse and its surroundings. However, please note that the lighthouse is not open for public tours at this time.

Heritage Status

The Faro Colonia Del Sacramento has been recognized as a historic landmark in Uruguay. Its significance in maritime history and navigation makes it an important part of the country's cultural heritage.