The Fastnet Lighthouse is simply an icon of this area. My daughter used to call it the “Happy Cake” as to her it looked like a birthday cake with one candle. To many it is known as the Teardrop of Ireland as it was the last view of Ireland as they sailed away to a new life.
There is a long history around the construction of the lighthouse and I will find it for you. The Fastnet was called the Teardrop of Ireland because it was often the last sight that of those leaving Ireland, their home and families for America. Many travelled from Ireland to America at the time of the Great Famine and many have travelled since seeking fortune and opportunity. It is both a sadness to see it go and maybe a tear of happiness to see it on their return.