Stiff radar tower, Radar tower in Ouessant, France.
Stiff radar tower is a reinforced concrete structure standing 72 meters tall on the northeastern edge of Ouessant Island. The installation monitors maritime activity and sits on the island's dramatic cliff-lined coastline.
Operations began in 1982 following the Amoco Cadiz tanker disaster, which highlighted the need for improved maritime monitoring. The project was created in direct response to this accident to prevent future shipping disasters.
The tower reflects modern architectural design and is now protected as part of France's cultural heritage inventory. Its structure demonstrates how functional buildings can become recognized cultural landmarks over time.
As this is a military installation, public access to the interior is not permitted. However, the structure can be viewed and photographed from public areas around the island.
The tower was designed by architect Jean Prouve, a pioneer in modern concrete structural design. His functional approach to the building created an unexpectedly striking example of contemporary French engineering.
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