Hải Đăng Rạch Giá

The Hải Đăng Rạch Giá is a lighthouse located on Trần Thủ Độ in Rạch Giá, Vietnam.

Overview

• Built in 1908, the Hải Đăng Rạch Giá was constructed to serve as a beacon for ships navigating the busy waters of the Mekong Delta.
• The lighthouse stood at an impressive height of 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of 40 meters (131 feet).

History

Built in 1908, the Hải Đăng Rạch Giá was constructed to serve as a beacon for ships navigating the busy waters of the Mekong Delta.

• The lighthouse stood at an impressive height of 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of 40 meters (131 feet).

Architecture

The Hải Đăng Rạch Giá features a traditional French-style lighthouse design, characteristic of many coastal structures built during the colonial era.

• The tower is constructed from limestone and concrete, with a distinctive square base and a tapering shape that rises to its peak.

Light Characteristics

The Hải Đăng Rạch Giá was equipped with a characteristic rotating light, which provided a steady beam of light in all directions.

• The light pattern was reportedly a fixed red light, visible from a distance of several miles out to sea.

Current Status

The Hải Đăng Rạch Giá remains an active lighthouse, although its primary function has largely been superseded by modern aids to navigation.

• In recent years, the structure has undergone restoration work to ensure its continued operation and preservation as a historic landmark.

Location and Accessibility

The Hải Đăng Rạch Giá is situated on Trần Thủ Độ in Rạch Giá, Vietnam.

• Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby town center.
• The location offers stunning views of the surrounding waters and the Mekong Delta.

Heritage Status

The Hải Đăng Rạch Giá has been recognized as an important cultural and historical landmark by local authorities.

• Its designation as a heritage site reflects its significance in Vietnam's maritime history and its enduring role as a symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage.

Notable Historical Events

While specific details are not available, it is believed that the Hải Đăng Rạch Giá played an important role during World War II, serving as a beacon for Allied ships navigating the waters of the Mekong Delta.

• The lighthouse may also have been used as a reference point for military operations in the region.

Coordinates

The Hải Đăng Rạch Giá is located at coordinates 10.0082545, 105.07656012222225.