Blacksod Lighthouse

Blacksod Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located at the southern end of the Mullet Peninsula in County Mayo, Ireland. It was built in 1866 using local granite blocks and features a unique square design, one of only two true square lighthouses in Ireland. The lighthouse has a small conical lantern section on top and was originally occupied by a resident lighthouse keeper and their family.

The lighthouse has an interesting history, with the need for a lighthouse at the southern extremity of the Mullet peninsula first mentioned in 1841. However, it was not until 1866 that the lighthouse was completed, funded by Bryan Carey, a local merchant. The lighthouse played a crucial role in World War II, with the weather observations made by the keeper, Ted Sweeney, and his wife, Maureen, causing the Normandy landings to be postponed in June 1944.

Today, Blacksod Lighthouse remains an important landmark and a testament to Irish maritime history. While the lighthouse is no longer occupied by a resident keeper, it continues to serve as a guiding light for vessels entering Blacksod Bay. Its unique design and rich history make it a notable attraction in the region, and a must-see for anyone interested in lighthouses and maritime heritage.

Light and tower

It lies on the North Atlantic. It has a tower rising from a 2-story keeper's house tower. The light has a focal height of 13 metres. The light has a range of 12 nautical miles.

Videos

Blacksod - Co Mayo

Blacksod point lighthouse, Storm January 2014

Erris - Blacksod Bay and Glosh

Events to mark D-Day at An Fód Dubh - Blacksod - in Mayo