Farol da Ilha Rasa, Maritime lighthouse on Ilha Rasa, Brazil.
Farol da Ilha Rasa is a maritime beacon located on a small island off Rio de Janeiro's coast, featuring a cylindrical stone tower topped with a lantern room. The structure stands approximately 26 meters tall and includes a circular balcony that offers views across the surrounding waters.
Construction started in 1819 under Portuguese royal authority and the light began operating in 1829 to guide ships through the coastal waters. This structure became an important landmark for maritime navigation in the region over the following decades.
The lighthouse represents Brazilian naval engineering excellence and maritime safety traditions along the Rio de Janeiro coastline.
The beacon emits light signals visible from far distances to help guide ships during nighttime travel. A boat trip is necessary to reach the island, and weather conditions should be calm for a safe visit.
The tower houses a rare meso-radial lens made in 1909, one of only two of its kind in existence. Since 1951 the beacon has operated on diesel-powered electricity, maintaining this original technology to the present day.
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