Phare de l'Anse à la Barque, Maritime lighthouse in Bouillante, Guadeloupe
The Phare de l'Anse à la Barque is a white cylindrical tower standing in a cove backed by coconut palms on Basse-Terre's western shore. The structure sends out blue, green, and red light signals repeating every six seconds to guide ships up to 14 kilometers away.
The original light structure was replaced in 1931 with two concrete installations standing six meters tall. The main lighthouse tower was reconstructed in 1963 and has remained the primary guide for ships passing this coast since then.
The keeper's residence reflects how the community integrated wartime materials into everyday structures, creating a tangible link to 20th-century events. Visitors walking around the site can observe how maritime life was organized through the placement and design of supporting buildings.
The lighthouse sits right at the water's edge in a protected cove, making it easily accessible for viewing. Bring water and sun protection when visiting, as the site offers minimal facilities and shade can be limited depending on the time of day.
Remains of a Napoleonic fleet rest just three meters beneath the surface of the water directly in front of the tower. These submerged ships lie visible through the clear water, creating an unusual connection between maritime navigation history and the present-day guide structure above.
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