Lighthouses of Ireland: An Illustrated Guide to the Sentinels that Guard our Coastline

Lighthouses have been used as navigational aids for centuries, helping ships navigate Ireland's treacherous waters. Despite technological advances, they remain crucial for maritime traffic and are a powerful symbol of strength and resilience. Artist Roger OReilly has spent two years drawing dramatic portraits of these sentinels of the shores, accompanied by practical and insightful information. This book is a celebration of these architectural gems and will be treasured by anyone who finds comfort, intrigue, or excitement in the glimmer of a lighthouse through the darkness.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 16 September 2018
Publisher: The Collins Press

Lighthouses have been serving as navigational aids for ships in Ireland's treacherous waters since ancient times, long before the advent of GPS, radio transmission, or radar. The earliest lights were simple bonfires built on hillsides, but in the fifth century, St. Dúbhan established a brazier of burning wood or turf on the headland of Hy Kinsellagh (now known as Hook Head). Today, despite technological advances, these coastal icons continue to serve as crucial navigational aids for the maritime traffic of our island nation, from the smallest leisure crafts to cargo ships and trawlers. By day, they mark the way with their instantly recognizable appearances; at night, by the character of their signals. One flash every two seconds tells a sailor that they are near Valentia Island off the coast of Kerry. Four flashes every twenty seconds means that they are further north, approaching Loop Head in County Clare.

In addition to representing a unique part of our maritime history and built heritage, lighthouses are a powerful symbol of strength and resilience in times of darkness. This evokes an irresistible fascination with them in many people. Artist Roger OReilly grew up near the Boyne Estuary lighthouse in County Meath and has since associated a sense of peace and reassurance with the warm glow of lighthouse beacons. He has spent two years criss-crossing the country to draw dramatic portraits of these sentinels of our shores. Gathered in this extraordinary collection, each beloved landmark is accompanied by a wealth of practical and insightful information: history, location, elevation, signal, and range.

This spectacularly illustrated celebration of Ireland's lighthouses is a testament to the enduring beauty and importance of these iconic structures. It will captivate readers of all ages with its stunning photographs, detailed descriptions, and informative anecdotes. Whether you are a sailor, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the natural world, this book is a must-have for anyone who wants to explore the rich and fascinating history of Ireland's lighthouses.

Weight: 1124g
Dimension: 277 x 225 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848893535