Hải Đăng Hòn Nưa

Hải Đăng Hòn Nưa is a historic lighthouse located on the coast of Vietnam. This structure has played a crucial role in maritime navigation and safety for centuries.

History

• The construction of Hải Đăng Hòn Nưa began in 1880, during the French colonial period. The lighthouse was built to serve as a navigational aid for ships traversing the coastline.
• The lighthouse's strategic location on Đèo Cả allowed it to guide vessels safely through the challenging waters of the South China Sea.

Architecture

Hải Đăng Hòn Nưa is an impressive structure that showcases traditional French colonial architecture. The lighthouse's design features a cylindrical tower with a distinctive lantern room at its summit.

The building material used for construction was primarily limestone, which has helped it withstand the harsh marine environment.

Tower Height and Focal Height

• The tower height of Hải Đăng Hòn Nưa is 20 meters (65.6 feet), while the focal height, which indicates the maximum distance from the base of the lighthouse that a light can be seen, reaches 30 meters (98.4 feet).

Light Characteristics

Hải Đăng Hòn Nưa features a fixed beam with a range of approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 km). The light source is reportedly an oil-fired lamp, which was a common technology during the lighthouse's construction.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains active, although its automation status is unclear. It continues to serve as a navigational aid for mariners and is also open to visitors.

Location and Accessibility

Hải Đăng Hòn Nưa is situated on Đèo Cả, approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the coast of Vietnam's central region. The lighthouse can be accessed via a paved road that leads to its location.

Heritage Status

As a historic structure, Hải Đăng Hòn Nưa has been recognized for its cultural and architectural significance. Its designation as a heritage site reflects its importance in Vietnam's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

• Hải Đăng Hòn Nưa played a significant role during World War II, when it served as a beacon for Allied forces navigating the South China Sea.
• The lighthouse also witnessed the country's transition from French colonial rule to independence in 1954.