Oksøy Fyr
Oksøy 1, 4625 Flekkerøy, Norway
Name and Location
Oks��y Fyr is a historic lighthouse located on Oksøy Island, approximately 15 kilometers south of Kristiansand, Norway.
Construction and History
The Oksøy Fyr was constructed in 1885 to guide mariners through the treacherous waters of the Skagerrak. The lighthouse's design is attributed to architect Henrik Tholfsen, who employed a traditional Norwegian style with a square base and octagonal tower.
Architecture and Materials
The structure stands at an impressive 21 meters (69 feet) tall, with a focal height of 14.5 meters (47.6 feet) above sea level. The lighthouse's design and architecture are recognized by Norway's cultural authorities for their historical significance and architectural importance.
Light and Navigation
The original light source was a Fresnel lens-powered beam, which emitted a characteristic flash every 15 seconds, alternating between red and white colors. The light had a range of approximately 18 kilometers (11.2 miles), serving as a vital aid for vessels navigating the busy shipping lanes of the Skagerrak.
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can reach Oksøy Fyr by boat or kayak from Flekkerøy. The island is connected to the mainland via a causeway. Opening hours vary depending on the season, but guided tours are available upon request. On-site facilities include a small museum and a gift shop.
Notable Views and Landscape
From its vantage point, Oksøy Fyr offers stunning views of the surrounding waters, the Skagerrak, and the coastline.
Current Status
Although no longer a primary navigation aid, Oksøy Fyr remains an important cultural and historical landmark in Norway.
Technical and Operational Details
The lighthouse was originally staffed by lighthouse keepers but was automated in 1994. Today, the light remains operational, although no longer manually maintained.
Further Information
- References: Norwegian Lighthouse Association (Norsk Fyrforening), Kristiansand Municipality, Agder County Council
- Managing Authority: Kristiansand Municipality and the Norwegian Coastal Administration (Kystverket)
Details
| Name | Oksøy Fyr |
|---|---|
| City | |
| Country | Norway |
| Coordinates | 58.0722835, 8.0528155 |
| Year of construction | 1885 |
| Stories | some notable photos can be found in the archives of the Norwegian Lighthouse Association (Norsk Fyrforening) |
| Architectural style | traditional Norwegian style |
| Architect | Henrik Tholfsen |
| Focal height | 14.5 |
| Tower height | 21 |
| Heritage status | true |
| Renovations | automated in 1994 |
| Access description | by boat or kayak from Flekkerøy |
| Accessible | true |
| Landscape type | rugged coastline |
| View description | stunning views of the surrounding waters, the Skagerrak, and the coastline |
| Guided tours | true |
| Facilities | small museum, gift shop |
| Opening hours | {"description":"varies depending on the season"} |
| AIS Radar | false |
| Light characteristic | Fl(3)W.15s |
| Light range | 11.2 |
| Automated | true |