Phare de La Roque, Maritime lighthouse in Saint-Samson-de-la-Roque, France.
Phare de La Roque is a lighthouse positioned on a cliff above the Seine estuary in Normandy, overlooking the port city of Le Havre, the harbor town of Honfleur, and the major bridges that cross the region. The tower sits elevated above the surrounding terrain and commands views across the water toward the Channel.
The structure was built in 1839 under the direction of architect Léonce Reynaud, when the Seine still flowed at its base. Over time, the estuary shifted northward, leaving the lighthouse in its original position while the waterway moved away.
The lighthouse stands as a landmark that locals and visitors use to understand the region's maritime past and river connections. It serves as a reference point in the landscape where the Seine estuary meets the Channel, helping shape how people perceive this part of Normandy.
The site is accessible via a marked hiking trail that starts near Saint-Samson church and follows the terrain upward. The walk takes roughly 90 minutes to complete and provides rest spots along the way.
The grounds feature orientation tables and information panels that highlight the local plant life, including red hawthorn and wild orchids found in the area. These botanical details transform a visit into an opportunity to observe the natural ecosystem alongside the historical structure.
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