Phare de Isla de Farallón, Navigation lighthouse in Colonia del Sacramento area, Uruguay
The Phare de Isla de Farallón is a white cylindrical lighthouse standing on a small island in the Río de la Plata near Colonia del Sacramento, roughly 185 meters long and 99 meters wide. The structure occupies a substantial area of the roughly 1.5-hectare island and dominates its landscape.
The lighthouse was built as an essential navigation aid for vessel traffic on the Río de la Plata, improving safety in the waters between Uruguay and Argentina. Its construction marked a key moment in the region's maritime development.
Farallón Island, together with San Gabriel Island, received National Monument status in recognition of their maritime heritage significance in Uruguay.
The lighthouse remains operational and can be viewed from the mainland near Colonia del Sacramento. The best views of the island and its structure come from the town's waterfront, where the lighthouse stands out clearly against the river.
Farallón Island received National Monument status along with San Gabriel Island in recognition of their maritime heritage. This protection highlights the special importance of both islands to the region's seafaring history.
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