Phare de Pen-Men, Navigation lighthouse on Groix Island, France
Phare de Pen-Men is a square stone lighthouse on the western side of Groix Island, standing approximately 28 meters tall with its base positioned on a 60-meter cliff. The structure uses a powerful light system to guide ships safely along this coastal area.
An initial lighthouse project in 1794 failed due to unstable ground conditions at the original site. The current structure was built in 1836 at a different location and gained official protection status as a historical monument in 2015.
The lighthouse shapes the western edge of Groix Island and has served locals as a visible landmark for nearly two centuries. Its presence connects the island to maritime traditions that remain woven into daily island life and memory.
The lighthouse sits on a windy, rocky cliff at the western tip of the island, so sturdy footwear and caution are necessary when visiting. The best time to visit is in clear weather when sightlines are good and access around the tower base is safe.
The building was redesigned from circular to square shape during construction to set it apart from the nearby Belle-Île lighthouse. This architectural choice makes it distinct from other coastal towers in the region.
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