Since the Lighthouse of Genoa was rebuilt in 1543, the Hook Lighthouse (also called Hook Head Lighthouse) is the second oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the world. The tower was constructed sometime in the 12th century, but according to Irish tradition, Dubhán, a missionary to the Wexford area, established a form of beacon as early as the 5th century. William Marshall, 2nd Earl of Pembroke wanted to build a lighthouse so ships could safely reach the new port town he established called New Ross. It was constructed of local limestone and the original building is still intact.
The lighthouse’s original keepers were monks and today it is remotely controlled from Dún Laoghaire by the Commissioners of Irish Lights. In 2001, the lighthouse opened as a tourist attraction after the old keepers houses were turned into a visitor centre.
