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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

Details

NameVilsandi tuletorn
CityVilsandi
CountryEstonia
Coordinates58.3828723, 21.8127245
Year of construction1870
Eventsshipwrecks, rescues
Historic significancerole in maritime navigation for over a century
Storiesanecdotes, myths, legends
Architectural styleoctagonal shape
Construction materialstone and brick
Focal height131
Tower height40
Access descriptionby car, boat, footpath
Accessibletrue
Landscape typenature reserve with lush forests, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife
View descriptionpicturesque surroundings
Guided tourstrue
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
Nearby attractionsmedieval churches and castles
Light characteristic{"main":"Fl (3) W 15s","secondary":"Fl (3) R 15s"}
Light range12
Automatedtrue