Tuesday 23 October 2012

Coastal Artillery Observation Tower, Noirmont Point


A massive structure, with a brooding clifftop presence over the island's sea approaches, it is, for many, one of the most potent symbols of the Occupation. The tower was, in fact, known as a "Marine Peilstand" or "naval direction- finding tower", and is one of three constructed in Jersey, out of a planned total of nine.

The design of these towers is unique to the Channel Islands, and may take its inspiration from the 18th century Round Towers that ring the local coastline. The observation slits, set in 2 metres of concrete, provide an impressive setting for the distant sea views towards France. On top of the tower is a mounting for a 2cm Flak Oerlikon anti-aircraft gun.

See the Channel Islands Occupation Society website for more details.

A contribution to Our World Tuesday.

1 comment:

Indrani said...

Interesting!
Signs remain and are great reminders.