Hải Đăng Cù Lao Chàm

Location and Accessibility

The Hải Đăng Cù Lao Chàm is situated on Cù Lao Chàm Island, located off the coast of Đà Nẵng, Vietnam. The island can be accessed by boat from the city's port area.

History

The lighthouse was constructed in 1905 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners approaching the busy port of Đà Nẵng. Its construction marked an important milestone in the development of maritime infrastructure in Vietnam during the French colonial era.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The Hải Đăng Cù Lao Chàm is a classic example of French colonial architecture, featuring a cylindrical tower made from limestone and concrete. The lighthouse stands at a height of 20 meters (66 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of 30 meters (98 feet). The tower's distinctive design is topped with a metal lantern room containing the Fresnel lens.

Light Characteristics

The Hải Đăng Cù Lao Chàm features a fixed white light with a range of approximately 10 nautical miles. The lighthouse emits a characteristic pattern, known as a "flash-to-burst" sequence, which helps to guide mariners safely into the port.

Current Status

The Hải Đăng Cù Lao Chàm is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated in recent years. The lighthouse remains an important part of Vietnam's maritime heritage and continues to be maintained by local authorities.

Heritage Status

The Hải Đăng Cù Lao Chàm was designated as a National Monument in 1999, recognizing its cultural and historical significance as a symbol of Vietnam's rich maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the lighthouse played an important role in guiding Allied forces into the port of Đà Nẵng.
• The lighthouse also served as a key location for military operations during the Vietnam War, with American forces using it as a base to monitor the surrounding waters.