Name and Location

The Helsingin Majakka, also known as Helsinki Lighthouse, is a historic lighthouse located in the capital city of Finland, Helsinki. It is situated on the Finn-öböl peninsula.

Construction and History

Built in 1830, during the construction era of the early 19th century, the Helsingin Majakka served as a vital aid to navigation for ships entering Helsinki harbor. The original tower was constructed using limestone and brickwork, with a height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet).

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands 27.5 meters (90 feet) tall with an architectural style reminiscent of traditional Finnish design. Its cylindrical shape is topped by a lantern room, housing the light source.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse features a unique light characteristic, emitting a white beam every 12 seconds, visible up to 22 kilometers (14 miles) away. This impressive range made it an essential beacon for maritime traffic in the region.

Accessibility and Visiting

Today, the Helsingin Majakka is no longer a functioning aid to navigation. Instead, it serves as a popular tourist attraction and cultural landmark, offering stunning views of the Helsinki skyline. Visitors can enter the lighthouse and explore its history through exhibits and interactive displays.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse is situated on a peninsula overlooking the Gulf of Finland, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding waters. The Finn-öböl area is known for its natural beauty, with lush forests, parks, and recreational areas nearby.

Anecdotes and Folklore

No anecdotes or folklore available.

Technical and Operational Details

Initially, the lighthouse was manually operated by keepers, but in the early 20th century, it was automated to improve efficiency and reduce costs. The lighthouse is no longer a functioning aid to navigation.

Further Information

• * Wikipedia: "Helsingin majakka" (Finnish) / "Helsinki Lighthouse" (English)
• * Finn-öböl Local Museum
• * Helsinki City Archives