Phare de Calais

The Calais lighthouse was built in 1848. It stands on a military bastion that was once part of the city's fortifications. These fortifications have since disappeared, and the city has expanded. As a result, the lighthouse is now located within the city limits, but near the port. It is a landfall lighthouse whose function is to guide ships entering the port of Calais. It also serves as a landmark for the many ships passing through the Strait of Dover, the busiest shipping lane in the world. Its tower is 50 meters high, and 271 steps must be climbed to reach the top. From the top of the lighthouse, you can see Great Britain (on a clear day). Its light signal, created by the Fresnel lens it uses, consists of four white flashes grouped every 15 seconds. Its range is 23 nautical miles. It is open to visitors year-round. Every day during French school holidays, on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays outside of school holidays or by appointment for groups of more than 10 people.