Vilsandi tuletorn
Vilsandi tuletorn 925, Vilsandi, 93421 Saare maakond, Estonia
Name and Location
The Vilsandi Lighthouse stands at Vilsandi tuletorn 925, Vilsandi, Saare maakond, Estonia (58.3828799° N, 21.8127352° E), situated on the western shore of the island overlooking the Gulf of Riga.
Construction and History
The Vilsandi Lighthouse was constructed in 1870 with a height of approximately 40 meters (131 feet) above sea level. Its tower is built from stone and brick, with a distinctive octagonal shape. The lighthouse's architecture reflects the era's maritime engineering standards.
Architecture and Materials
The lighthouse tower is made of stone and brick, with an octagonal shape.
Light and Navigation
The Vilsandi Lighthouse features two light sources: the Main Light (Fl (3) W 15s - white flash every 15 seconds), and the Secondary Light (Fl (3) R 15s - red flash every 15 seconds). These lights have a range of approximately 12 nautical miles, guiding mariners through the waters surrounding Vilsandi Island.
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can reach the Vilsandi Lighthouse via a 6-kilometer walking trail starting from the island's central village. Guided tours are available upon request, but visitors must adhere to safety regulations and guidelines.
Notable Views and Landscape
Vilsandi Island is a nature reserve, featuring lush forests, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife. The area is also home to several historic sites, including medieval churches and castles.
Heritage Status
The Vilsandi Lighthouse has been recognized as a national cultural heritage site by the Estonian Government.
Technical and Operational Details
The lighthouse is currently automated, with no human keepers on site. The Estonian Maritime Administration ensures its proper functioning and maintenance.
Further Information
- Estonian Maritime Administration: [Vilsandi Lighthouse](https://nma.vta.ee/aton/2835)
- Wikidata: Q3376498 (Vilsandi Lighthouse)
Details
Name | Vilsandi tuletorn |
---|---|
City | Vilsandi |
Country | Estonia |
Coordinates | 58.3828723, 21.8127245 |
Year of construction | 1870 |
Events | shipwrecks, rescues |
Historic significance | role in maritime navigation for over a century |
Stories | anecdotes, myths, legends |
Architectural style | octagonal shape |
Construction material | stone and brick |
Focal height | 131 |
Tower height | 40 |
Access description | by car, boat, footpath |
Accessible | true |
Landscape type | nature reserve with lush forests, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife |
View description | picturesque surroundings |
Guided tours | true |
Facilities | toilets, café, gift shop |
Nearby attractions | medieval churches and castles |
Light characteristic | {"main":"Fl (3) W 15s","secondary":"Fl (3) R 15s"} |
Light range | 12 |
Automated | true |