Isla Verde Lighthouse facts for kids
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| Location | Algeciras Andalusia Spain |
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| Coordinates | 36°07′21.8″N 5°26′02.2″W / 36.122722°N 5.433944°W |
| Year first constructed | 1864 |
| Deactivated | 1980s |
| Construction | masonry tower |
| Tower shape | octagonal prism towe with balcony and lantern rising from one-storey keeper’s house |
| Markings / pattern | white tower, grey lantern dome |
| Height | 9 metres (30 ft) |
The Isla Verde Lighthouse (also known as Faro de Isla Verde in Spanish) is an old lighthouse located in Algeciras, Spain. Lighthouses are tall towers with bright lights that help ships find their way, especially at night or in bad weather. They warn sailors about dangerous coastlines or guide them into safe harbors. This particular lighthouse is no longer used today.
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Where is the Isla Verde Lighthouse?
The lighthouse stands at the southern end of an old fort. This fort is on Isla Verde, which means "Green Island." Over time, this island became part of the larger Port of Algeciras. This port is a very busy place where many ships come and go.
Building the Lighthouse
The Isla Verde Lighthouse was designed by an architect named Jaime Font. He started building it in 1863. The lighthouse was finished and began working in 1864. It was built using strong stone and covered with a plaster made from lime.
The tower itself is shaped like an octagon, which means it has eight sides. It stands about 9 meters (or 30 feet) tall from the ground. The light at the top was about 26 meters (or 85 feet) above the sea. This height helped its light shine far across the water.
Why the Lighthouse is Not Used Anymore
The Isla Verde Lighthouse worked for many years, guiding ships safely. However, technology has changed a lot since it was built. Today, ships use modern navigation tools. Also, the port has installed newer, smaller lights called beacons. These beacons help guide ships into the harbor more efficiently. Because of these changes, the Isla Verde Lighthouse stopped working in the 1980s. It is now a historic landmark rather than an active aid to navigation.
See also
In Spanish: Faro de Isla Verde para niños
