Discover lighthouse icons and architectural treasures from Ireland, Europe, the USA, and beyond.
Cape Hatteras
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, standing at an impressive 200 feet tall, is one of the tallest masonry structures ever moved. In 1999, to protect it from the rapidly eroding coastline, the lighthouse was carefully relocated a quarter mile inland, weighing a staggering 5,000 tons. This monumental move was necessary to preserve the iconic structure, which had guided sailors through the treacherous waters of the Graveyard of the Atlantic since its construction in 1870.
Known for its distinctive black-and-white spiral design, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse remains a symbol of perseverance and innovation. It continues to serve as an important beacon, not only for maritime safety but also as a beloved landmark within the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Visitors today can admire both its architectural beauty and its history, which has played a crucial role in protecting sailors from the deadly shoals and stormy seas off the coast of North Carolina.