Faro de Cabo Polonio

The Faro de Cabo Polonio is a historic lighthouse located on the Atlantic coast of Uruguay.

History

• The construction began in 1858, during the period of Spanish rule over the region.
• The tower was built to serve as a navigational aid for ships traversing the treacherous waters of the Rio de la Plata.

Architecture

The Faro de Cabo Polonio is a traditional lighthouse design, featuring a cylindrical tower with a distinctive lantern room at its summit.

• The tower stands 30 meters (98 feet) tall, while the focal height reaches 45 meters (148 feet).

Light Characteristics

The Faro de Cabo Polonio is equipped with a fixed optic lens that projects a white beam of light, visible up to 20 nautical miles.

• The lighthouse operates on a manual rotation system, allowing the keeper to adjust the beam's direction as needed.

Current Status

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

• Visitors can still access the tower and observe the surrounding coastline from its summit.

Location and Accessibility

Located on Entrada a Cabo Polonio, the Faro de Cabo Polonio is situated approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of the town of Punta del Este.

• The lighthouse is accessible via a paved road, which leads to a small parking area near the tower's base.

Heritage Status

The Faro de Cabo Polonio has been recognized as a National Monument in Uruguay, acknowledging its historical significance and importance as a navigational aid.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Faro de Cabo Polonio played a crucial role in guiding Allied ships through the Rio de la Plata.
• The lighthouse's beam was used to identify friendly vessels amidst the chaos of war.

Strong emphasis on importance