Roman Rock Lighthouse, Offshore lighthouse at False Bay, South Africa
The Roman Rock Lighthouse is a white cylindrical tower rising approximately 14 meters on a single rock in False Bay. The structure features a balcony and light chamber positioned at the top for signaling passing vessels.
Construction took place between 1861 and 1865, with rough seas limiting actual work to just 96 days spread across four years. The extended timeline reflects how hazardous conditions made building on the isolated rock extremely difficult.
The light takes its name from a Roman vessel that wrecked in the area long ago. This maritime connection still shapes how locals and visitors understand the bay's seafaring past.
The lighthouse is visible from shore and best observed from Simon's Town or boat tours in the bay. The best time to visit is during calm weather when the water is clear and the structure is clearly visible.
This lighthouse is the only one in South Africa built on a single rock that completely submerges under high tide. The engineering required to construct and maintain it was a remarkable feat for its era.
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