The Challenging Story of La Jument Lighthouse
On the western coast of France, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, stands La Jument Lighthouse—an iconic beacon for sailors and a tempting opportunity for adventurers seeking a high-paying job. Despite the offer of a $1.2 million annual salary for a lighthouse keeper, no one has been able to endure the conditions here. But why? Let’s dive into the tough realities and fascinating history behind this incredible lighthouse.
Europe's Most Dangerous Sea: The Iroise Sea
La Jument is located in the Iroise Sea, one of Europe’s most treacherous waters. The area is notorious for its powerful currents, towering waves, and relentless storms, making sea travel extremely dangerous. Between 1888 and 1904, 30 ships were lost in this region, prompting the urgent need for a lighthouse to guide sailors to safety.
The Construction of La Jument: A Battle Against Nature
On February 20, 1904, the French government decided to build a lighthouse on a solid rock off the coast of Ushant Island, about 300 meters offshore. However, this was no easy project. The violent storms, strong currents, and massive waves constantly disrupted construction. Although work began in 1904, La Jument wasn’t fully completed until 1911, due to the harsh conditions. The lighthouse was finally secured on a firm foundation in 1940, after years of setbacks.
Standing 48 meters tall, La Jument is a 7-story structure. Its octagonal stone tower is mounted on a circular concrete base. This engineering marvel has withstood the brutal forces of the Atlantic Ocean for over a century.
A Big Salary, But Even Bigger Challenges
While the $1.2 million annual salary for a lighthouse keeper sounds incredibly appealing, the job comes with immense isolation and difficulty. La Jument Lighthouse is located in a remote and stormy region, surrounded by dangerous waves and strong winds. The solitude and extreme weather conditions make this position a challenging one, even with such a high salary.
The Lighthouse: A Timeless Guardian
La Jument Lighthouse is not just an engineering success; it’s a symbol of resilience. For more than a century, it has guided sailors through some of the most dangerous waters in Europe. While working here may require immense courage and endurance, La Jument’s fascinating history and ability to withstand the harshest conditions make it one of the most important structures in maritime history.
So, would you work here for $1.2 million a year? This remote and challenging job may seem tempting with its high pay, but working at La Jument means facing the fiercest elements of nature head-on.
