The keepers of the Cordouan lighthouse in France express concerns about their job security due to decreasing funding that jeopardizes this UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Cordouan lighthouse, the last inhabited lighthouse in France, is facing economic challenges that threaten the job security of its guardians. Thomas Dalisson, one of the six keepers, shares their growing concerns about potential job cuts, stating they feel threatened as discussions of ending their roles become more frequent. This lighthouse, which stands at 67 meters tall and has been under human guardianship for over 400 years since its construction in 1584, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2021.
The decrease in subsidies poses a substantial threat to the lighthouse's economic model, raising alarms among its keepers about the future of their roles and the preservation of the iconic structure. Despite the automation of some functions like lighting and signaling, the guardians emphasize the importance of their presence for the maintenance and care of the lighthouse, which is not only a historic monument but also a vital part of cultural heritage and maritime safety.
With worries about funding cuts, the guardians hope that local authorities and the French government will recognize the importance of this 'treasure' and take steps to ensure its preservation. The debate around the lighthouse not only touches on its physical upkeep but also raises broader questions about funding cultural heritage sites and the balance between automation and human stewardship in their maintenance.
