Name and Location

The Skifteskär Fyr is a historic lighthouse located off the island of Styrsö, near Gothenburg, on the southwestern coast of Sweden.

Construction and History

The Skifteskär Fyr was constructed in 1867 to guide mariners through the treacherous waters of the Kattegat Sea. The original structure was designed by architect Carl Gustaf Staël von Holstein and built on a rocky islet, approximately 1.5 kilometers off the shore of Styrsö.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 21 meters (69 feet) with a focal height of 23 meters (75 feet). Its cylindrical shape is adorned with a distinctive lantern room housing a red and white striped light characteristic. The original structure was made of limestone and brick, while the current building has undergone several renovations.

Light and Navigation

The Skifteskär Fyr emits a unique pattern of lights, known as Fl(3)W.15s, which is characterized by three white flashes every 9 seconds. This distinctive light serves as a beacon for mariners navigating the Kattegat Sea.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can reach the lighthouse by boat or on guided tours from Gothenburg. Please note that the lighthouse is not open to the general public for safety reasons.

Notable Views and Landscape

From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Kattegat Sea, the surrounding islands, and the Gothenburg cityscape. The Skifteskär Fyr is situated in a picturesque setting, surrounded by rocky shores, sandy beaches, and lush greenery.

Anecdotes and Folklore

There are no notable anecdotes about the Skifteskär Fyr, but it is said that the lighthouse has played a crucial role in the region's maritime history and continues to be an important landmark for locals and visitors alike.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was initially operated manually until it was automated in 1960. Today, it is managed by the Swedish Maritime Administration (SMA). The lighthouse is equipped with AIS (Automatic Identification System) and radar technology to ensure safe passage through the Kattegat Sea.

Further Information

Mariners can refer to chart no. 4405 for more information on navigating the waters surrounding the Skifteskär Fyr. For a visual representation of the lighthouse, please refer to unknown or search online for notable photos and gallery mentions.