Wicklow Head facts for kids
Wicklow Head is a special piece of land that sticks out into the sea. It's located near the town of Wicklow in County Wicklow, Ireland. This spot is about 3 kilometers from the town center.
Wicklow Head is famous for being the most eastern point on the mainland of the Republic of Ireland. Imagine standing there and being the first person in mainland Ireland to see the sunrise!
Guiding Ships: The Lighthouses
For hundreds of years, lighthouses have helped ships find their way safely. Wicklow Head has been home to several important lighthouses.
The Old Lighthouses
The very first lighthouses at Wicklow Head were built in the 1700s. There were actually two of them! They stood high up on the headland. Having two lights helped sailors tell them apart from other lighthouses nearby.
One of these old towers was built in 1781. It used 20 tallow candles and mirrors to shine a light. But in 1836, lightning struck the tower and damaged it. Even after that, the tower was kept as a landmark for ships during the day.
The Modern Lighthouse
Later, in the 1800s, a new lighthouse was built lower down on Wicklow Head. The older lighthouses were sometimes hidden by fog or mist. This made them less helpful for ships. The new lighthouse was placed where its light could be seen more clearly.
This active lighthouse has been guiding ships for many years. On March 31, 1994, it became fully automatic. This means machines now operate the light, and lighthouse keepers are no longer needed to live there.
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The 'Rear Lighthouse' was one of two built in the 18th century at Wicklow Head. It is now a holiday residence of the Irish Landmark Trust.
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The 18th century 'Front Lighthouse' was rebuilt in the early 19th century. It is no longer active.
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The active Wicklow Head Lighthouse was built in the 19th century, and operated by the Commissioners of Irish Lights.
