Name and Location

The Norðfjarðarvíti Lighthouse is located in Neskaupstaður, Iceland, standing tall at an elevation of 39 meters (128 feet) above sea level.

Construction and History

The exact date of construction is unknown, but it is believed that the lighthouse was built in the late 19th or early 20th century. Its original purpose was to guide ships through the treacherous waters of the Norðfjarðar fjord, which connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Icelandic mainland.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse's architectural style is characteristic of Icelandic structures from that era, with a sturdy white-painted concrete tower and a lantern room housing a Fresnel lens. The original light source was likely a kerosene lamp, later replaced by electric lighting in the mid-20th century.

Light and Navigation

The Norðfjarðarvíti Lighthouse features three distinct lights:

• a primary white flashing light with a range of 15 nautical miles (28 kilometers) and a period of 7 seconds;
• a secondary red flashing light with a range of 12 nautical miles (22 kilometers) and a period of 7 seconds, used for distinguishing between the primary and secondary lights;
• two sector lights covering sectors 214-242 and 334-46 to provide guidance for vessels navigating the Norðfjarðar fjord.

Accessibility and Visiting

The lighthouse is situated in a remote area, making it challenging for visitors to access. However, the surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views of the fjord and its dramatic cliffs. The nearest town, Neskaupstaður, provides basic amenities and services.

Notable Views and Landscape

The surrounding landscape offers stunning views of the fjord and its dramatic cliffs.

Anecdotes and Folklore

No anecdotes or folklore are available for this lighthouse.

Technical and Operational Details

In the early 21st century, the lighthouse was automated, eliminating the need for manual maintenance. The current operation status is unknown, but it is likely that the lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation.

The original light source was likely a kerosene lamp. United States National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency Pub. 115 (2010-09-09) provides further information about this lighthouse.