Cape Ortegal Lighthouse facts for kids
| Spain number | 03160 |
|---|
The Cape Ortegal Lighthouse (also known as Faro de Cabo Ortegal in Spanish and Galician) is a special building in Galicia, Spain. It stands tall in the Province of A Coruña. Lighthouses like this one are very important. They help ships find their way safely along the coast.
This lighthouse was planned in 1982 and finished being built in 1984. It is made of strong white concrete. The tower is shaped like a cylinder, which is like a big tube. It is about 3 meters (10 feet) wide. The lighthouse stands about 12.7 meters (42 feet) tall. It has a bright red stripe around it and two balconies. These balconies are about 4.7 meters (15 feet) wide.
Contents
What is a Lighthouse?
A lighthouse is a tower, building, or other tall structure. It has a powerful light at the top. This light acts as a navigation aid for ships and boats. Lighthouses help sailors know where they are. They also warn them about dangerous coastlines or rocky areas. Each lighthouse has a unique light pattern. This helps sailors tell them apart, especially at night.
Where is Cape Ortegal?
Cape Ortegal is a famous cape or headland in northwestern Spain. It is known for its rugged cliffs and beautiful views. The lighthouse is built right on this cape. This location is perfect for guiding ships. It helps them navigate the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The area around the lighthouse is also home to many seabirds.
Building the Cape Ortegal Lighthouse
Building a lighthouse takes careful planning. The Cape Ortegal Lighthouse project started in 1982. It took two years to complete. By 1984, the lighthouse was ready to shine its light. Its design is simple but strong. The white concrete helps it stand out against the landscape. The red stripe makes it even more visible during the day. The two balconies give lighthouse keepers a place to look out. They can also be used for maintenance.
Why Lighthouses are Important
Lighthouses have been guiding ships for hundreds of years. Before modern navigation tools, they were essential. They prevented many shipwrecks. Even today, with GPS and radar, lighthouses are still valuable. They serve as a reliable visual aid. They are especially helpful in bad weather or when electronic systems fail. The Cape Ortegal Lighthouse continues this important job. It keeps sailors safe along the Spanish coast.
See also
