Calais Lighthouse

Calais, France

Calais Lighthouse is a significant landmark as well as a navigational aid to ships and ferries using the Straits of Dover. There was a beacon at the summit of the watchtower from 1818. King Louis-Philippe in his plans to improve French ports decided the construction of a first-class lighthouse in Calais. This lighthouse started operating in 1848 and was electrified in 1883. After escaping the destruction of the Second World War it was automated in 1987.

The lighthouse is 53m high, its tower is octagonal outside and round inside with walls 1,90m at the base and 1,50m at the summit. The foundations descend 7,40m under the cellars. The staircase has 271 steps leading up to the lantern. The central light of the lighthouse is permanent and the lantern, whose panels shut off the light, turns around the light, giving 4 flashes of 2/10th of a second every 15 seconds.

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Founded: 1848
Category: Miscellaneous historic sites in France

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Madeleine Norman (2 years ago)
Beautiful visit, but not suitable for small children or disabled people.
Marcus Schuler (2 years ago)
Nice place, easy to reach. Beautiful View from the top.
Pavel Hristov (Xartex) (2 years ago)
Awesome place. We had a good time and weather and managed to get to the terrace. Our guide was very helpful and patient with us and our many questions. I definitely recommend a visit to this lighthouse. As far as I understand, in very good weather, Britain can be seen quite well. We saw only faint outlines.
Martin Vanden (3 years ago)
Very interesting video on the lighthouses history. Make sure you hydrate before tackling those stairs.
Diana Hernández (5 years ago)
There are great views from the city and the beach, the guide explained us the history of Calais, the lighthouse and the important buildings and palces you could see. Maybe some repairs are needed in the exposition of the beginning, but the service and views are something exceptional. You don't need the best condition to go upstairs, but I would recommend to not push yourself. Sometimes it can get very windy, so keep everything as best as you can.
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