Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, Cast iron lighthouse in Southampton, Bermuda.
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is a cast iron tower rising 36 meters above the island's highest point in Southampton parish. The structure produces a light beam from a 1000-watt bulb that reaches ships up to 40 nautical miles away.
The lighthouse was built in 1846 after numerous vessels wrecked on Bermuda's coral reefs endangered navigation. It became the world's first lighthouse constructed entirely from cast iron.
The lighthouse received Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, commemorated by a plaque at the base marking her visit to this maritime navigation point.
A spiral staircase with 185 steps climbs to the observation deck, offering views across the coastline. The ascent involves steep stairs and narrow passages, so take your time and watch your footing.
The rotating lens system weighs three tons and completes a full rotation every minute to sweep the beam across the water. Pilots flying overhead at high altitudes can also see the light, making it useful for air traffic as well.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
