Name and Location

The Bråtö Lighthouse is located in Hälleviksstrand, Sweden, standing at an impressive height of 7 meters (23 feet). The lighthouse's name is derived from the Swedish words "bråta," meaning "rocky reef," and "ö," meaning "island."

Construction and History

The Bråtö Lighthouse was constructed in 1857 during a period of significant maritime growth in Sweden. At the time, the country was experiencing an economic boom, driven by its thriving shipbuilding industry. As trade and commerce increased, so did the need for safe and reliable navigation aids.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse's architectural style is characterized by its simple yet functional design. The structure is made of local stone and features a rectangular shape with a small lantern room at the top. The original lantern was equipped with a Fresnel lens, which was replaced in 1959 with an electric light source.

Light and Navigation

The Bråtö Lighthouse emits a green light every 12 seconds, with a range of 3 nautical miles (5.6 kilometers). This unique light characteristic is designed to be easily distinguishable from other nearby lighthouses, ensuring the safety of mariners navigating through the area.

Accessibility and Visiting

Although the Bråtö Lighthouse is not open to the public for guided tours or regular visitation, its remote location makes it an attractive spot for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts who enjoy exploring the Swedish coastline.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands on a rocky outcropping overlooking the Baltic Sea. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a mix of coastal cliffs, beaches, and forests. The area is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered European otter.

Technical and Operational Details

Initially operated by a keeper who would manually maintain the light and perform routine maintenance tasks, the lighthouse was automated in 1969, eliminating the need for human intervention.

Further Information

• The Bråtö Lighthouse is listed as a seamark in the Swedish Maritime Administration's (SMA) database.
• The lighthouse's unique light characteristic is referenced in the US NGA Pub. 116, which provides navigation information for mariners worldwide.