Slyne Head Lighthouse facts for kids
| Location | County Galway, Ireland |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 53°24′00.2″N 10°14′01.6″W / 53.400056°N 10.233778°W |
| Year first constructed | 1836 |
| Construction | limestone tower |
| Tower shape | cylindrical tower with balcony and lantern |
| Markings / pattern | black tower |
| Height | 24 metres (79 ft) |
| Focal height | 35 metres (115 ft) |
| Range | 19 nautical miles (35 km; 22 mi) |
| Characteristic | Fl (2)W 15s |
| Admiralty number | A6288 |
| NGA number | 7444 |
| ARLHS number | IRE-069 |
| Ireland number | CIL-1990 |
Slyne Head Lighthouse, also called Ceann Léime in Irish, is a very important building located at the far western tip of County Galway, Ireland. It stands about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) southwest of a village called Doonlaughan. This lighthouse helps guide ships safely along the coast. It is looked after by the Commissioners of Irish Lights, who manage all the lighthouses around Ireland.
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What is Slyne Head Lighthouse?
A lighthouse is like a giant, helpful light on the coast. Its main job is to send out bright flashes of light. This light warns ships about dangerous rocks and shallow areas, especially when it's dark or foggy. It helps sailors know where they are and keeps them from crashing into the land.
Building the Lighthouse
Slyne Head Lighthouse was built a long time ago, in 1836. When it was first made, there were actually two lighthouses on this point! They worked together to guide ships. However, over time, only the one on the west side stayed active. The other one was no longer needed.
How it Helps Ships
The light from Slyne Head Lighthouse can be seen from far away, about 19 nautical miles (35 kilometers). It has a special pattern of flashes: two white flashes every 15 seconds. This unique pattern helps sailors know it's Slyne Head Lighthouse and not another one. This information is super important for them to navigate safely.
Who Looks After It?
The Commissioners of Irish Lights (CIL) are the people and organization responsible for Slyne Head Lighthouse. They make sure the light is always working and that the lighthouse is in good condition. They play a big part in keeping ships safe around the coasts of Ireland.
