The Normandy Coast, bordered by the English Channel, is dotted with majestic lighthouses that have guided sailors through the centuries. These silent witnesses to the region’s maritime history continue to evoke a time when navigation depended on these sentinels of light. Discover the fascinating history of Normandy’s historic lighthouses, which add a spectacular dimension to the coastal landscape.
The Gatteville Lighthouse: Majesty on the Peninsula
Located on the Barfleur Peninsula, the Gatteville lighthouse is one of the highest lighthouses in France. Built in the 19th century, it stands almost 75 metres high. Brave visitors can climb the 365 spiral steps to be rewarded with an exceptional panoramic view of the sea and surrounding area.
The Hague Lighthouse: Guardian of the Côte Sauvage
Erected on the tip of La Hague, the Phare de la Hague offers a breathtaking sight with its jagged cliffs as a backdrop. Built in 1837, this lighthouse has withstood storms and the test of time. Its characteristic light still guides sailors through this often wind-battered region.
The Trouville Lighthouse: Charm and Seaside History
The Trouville Lighthouse, erected in 1867, adds a picturesque touch to the seaside resort of Trouville-sur-Mer. Anchored at the end of the pier, this white and red lighthouse offers a breathtaking view of the beach and sea. It’s a landmark that bears witness to the elegant past of this popular seaside resort.
The Antifer lighthouse: Watchman for the cliffs of Étretat
Overlooking the famous cliffs of Étretat, the Antifer lighthouse is a distinctive landmark on the Normandy Coast. Built in 1950, this modern lighthouse replaces an earlier one destroyed during the Second World War. Its light guides ships through the tumultuous waters off this steep coast.
The Ouistreham Lighthouse: Witness to Military History
The Ouistreham lighthouse, built in 1905, has a history linked to the events of the Second World War. Located on the Caen Canal, it was used as a landmark by the Allies during the Normandy Landings in 1944. It is a poignant symbol of the region’s military history.
The Saint-Valery-en-Caux Lighthouse: Maritime Elegance
Built in 1843, the Saint-Valery-en-Caux Lighthouse is a soberly elegant beacon that rises above the fishing port. With its black-and-white stripes, it offers an emblematic silhouette that recalls the days when lighthouses were essential for coastal navigation.
Conclusion: In the Light of Normandy’s Maritime History
The lighthouses of Normandy are not only imposing structures but also guardians of the region’s maritime past. Their beams of light have guided countless ships through the sometimes turbulent waters of the English Channel. Each lighthouse tells a story, a time when these sentinels of light were essential to the safety of sailors and the preservation of Normandy’s maritime heritage. Today, they continue to fascinate visitors as timeless witnesses to the history and beauty of the Normandy Coast.
Cécile BELLAND
