Hải Đăng Hòn Hải

Location and Accessibility

• The Hải Đăng Hòn Hải lighthouse is situated on Hòn Hải Island, located off the coast of Lâm Đồng Province, Vietnam.
• Visitors can take a guided tour or rent a boat to reach the island.

History

• The construction of the lighthouse began in 1885 and was completed in 1890.
• It was built to serve as a navigational aid for ships traveling along the coast of Vietnam, particularly during the French colonial era.
• The lighthouse played an important role in guiding vessels through the treacherous waters of the South China Sea.

Architecture

• The Hải Đăng Hòn Hải lighthouse is a five-level structure made from stone and brick.
• Its tower height is approximately 20 meters (66 feet), while the focal height is around 25 meters (82 feet).
• The lighthouse features a distinctive octagonal shape, which was a common design element for lighthouses during the late 19th century.

Light Characteristics

• The lighthouse emits a fixed beam of light that can be seen up to 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) away.
• The light pattern is a rotating flash every two seconds, with a range of 10-15 nautical miles (18-28 kilometers).

Current Status

• The Hải Đăng Hòn Hải lighthouse is currently no longer an active navigational aid.
• However, it has been converted into a museum and is open to visitors who wish to learn about its history and significance.

Heritage Status

• The lighthouse was designated as a national monument in Vietnam in 1998, recognizing its cultural and historical importance.
• It is also listed on the Vietnamese National Register of Cultural Heritage Sites.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Hải Đăng Hòn Hải lighthouse played a significant role in guiding Allied forces through the South China Sea.
• The lighthouse's light was used to guide ships carrying troops and supplies from Vietnam to the Philippines, helping to secure the region against Japanese forces.