The Cordouan Lighthouse (Tour de Cordouan) is the oldest lighthouse in France and the tenth tallest traditional (built of masonry) lighthouse in the world. Before the current tower was built between 1584 – 1611, small beacon towers existed on the islet since at least 880 CE.
The first proper structure was about 15 m (48 ft) high and was implemented by Edward, the Black Prince as the area was an English province at the time. Passing ships paid two groats (old English silver coins) to pass, marking the first known instacne of lighthouse fees. By the mid-16th century, this first lighthouse fell into disrepair, which threatened the navigation of the Bordeaux wine trade.
The current tower was designed by leading Paris architect Louis de Foix and had rooms that served as apartments for its keepers as well as the King’s Apartment. The lighthouse was restored in 1855 and was declared a historical monument in 1862.
