Illa de l'Aire Lighthouse facts for kids
| Location | Illa de l'Aire Menorca Spain |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 39°47′58″N 4°17′35″E / 39.799504°N 4.293067°E |
| Year first constructed | 1860 |
| Construction | masonry tower |
| Tower shape | cylindrical tower with double balcony and lantern |
| Markings / pattern | tower with black and white bands, grey lantern |
| Height | 38 metres (125 ft) |
| Focal height | 53 metres (174 ft) |
| Range | 18 nautical miles (33 km; 21 mi) |
| Spain number | ES-36370 |
The Illa de l’Aire Lighthouse is an active lighthouse located on a tiny island called Illa de l'Aire. This small island is found just off the southeast coast of Menorca, which is a beautiful island in Spain. Lighthouses like this one are super important because they help ships navigate safely, especially at night or in bad weather.
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What is the Illa de l'Aire Lighthouse?
The Illa de l'Aire Lighthouse is a tall, cylindrical tower that stands proudly on its own small island. It has a distinctive look with black and white bands painted on its side. At the very top, there's a grey lantern room where the powerful light shines out.
How tall is the lighthouse?
This lighthouse is about 38 meters (around 125 feet) tall. That's like a 12-story building! Its light shines from a height of 53 meters (about 174 feet) above sea level. This makes it one of the tallest lighthouses in the Balearic Islands.
When was it built?
The Illa de l'Aire Lighthouse was built a long time ago, in 1860. It has been guiding ships for over 160 years! It's a historic landmark that continues to serve an important purpose today.
Why are lighthouses important?
Lighthouses are like traffic lights for ships. They send out bright flashes of light that sailors can see from far away. This helps them know where the coastline is, avoid dangerous rocks, and find their way into harbors.
How does the Illa de l'Aire Lighthouse help ships?
The light from the Illa de l'Aire Lighthouse can be seen from up to 18 nautical miles away. That's about 33 kilometers or 21 miles! This wide range helps ships far out at sea know they are approaching Menorca. It acts as a warning system and a guide, making the waters safer for everyone.
See also
In Spanish: Faro de isla del Aire para niños- List of lighthouses in Spain
- List of lighthouses in the Balearic Islands
