Phare du Four, Historical lighthouse in Porspoder, France
Phare du Four is a granite lighthouse built on a 25-metre-diameter rock at the southern end of the Argenton rocks, at the entrance to the Chenal du Four off Porspoder. The tapering round tower rises from a broader stone base, with five small windows along its face and a corbelled gallery carrying a glazed lantern under a domed cap. Its five floors each hold one room, linked by a spiral staircase.
Construction started in 1869 and took five years due to harsh sea conditions at this exposed location. Once completed in 1874, it became an essential navigational aid for ships traveling through this treacherous area.
The rock has been called Le Four since at least the late 17th century. Two keepers lived in the tower and were relieved every two weeks, spending their free time with their families in nearby Argenton on the mainland. The fog signal sounds a deep tone every five seconds.
The lighthouse now operates automatically and emits five white flashes every 15 seconds to guide vessels from great distances. The rocky location is visible from shore, especially in calm weather, though a close visit requires careful consideration of tidal and sea conditions.
A lightning strike in 1899 caused serious damage to the structure, creating great concern for those living there. This event illustrated the harsh nature of this exposed coastal setting and the hazards faced by those who worked within it.
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