Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse, Coastal lighthouse in Mossel Bay, South Africa.
Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse is a white square tower positioned on the coastal cliffs of Mossel Bay, with its beacon designed to guide ships navigating the surrounding waters. The structure contains an interior staircase that climbs to the light chamber where the navigation signal operates.
The tower was built in 1864 to address the dangers ships faced along this stretch of South African coast, becoming a critical safety landmark for maritime traffic. Its construction reflected expanding sea trade and the urgent need to mark hazardous waters that caused many shipwrecks.
The lighthouse represents the maritime heritage of Mossel Bay, with its location marking where seafaring traditions shaped the region for centuries. Visitors can feel the connection to past generations as they stand where lookouts once scanned the horizon.
The tower is open for visitors to climb the interior stairs, with certain periods and days having restricted access depending on maintenance and weather conditions. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the climb is steep and wind exposure at the top can be quite strong.
A human keeper lived on-site for many decades, maintaining a constant watch over the light and performing essential daily duties at the tower. This traditional role has been gradually replaced by automation, though some operational checks still require human attention.
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