Name and Location

Mjölkö Lighthouse is located in the picturesque coastal town of Åkersberga, Sweden.

2. Construction and History

The Mjölkö Lighthouse was built in 1846 to serve as a beacon for ships navigating the Baltic Sea. The original structure was designed by Swedish architect Carl August Ehrensvärd and features a blend of classicism and medieval elements. Over the years, the lighthouse has undergone several renovations, with the most significant one taking place in the early 20th century.

3. Architecture and Materials

The Mjölkö Lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 24 meters (78 feet), with a focal plane height of 30 meters (98 feet). Its cylindrical shape is topped with a distinctive lantern room, which houses the original Fresnel lens. The lighthouse's exterior is constructed from yellow-painted stone and features ornate architectural details, including arched windows and a decorative cornice.

4. Light and Navigation

Until the early 20th century, Mjölkö Lighthouse was manually operated by a keeper who would maintain the light and fog signal. In 1923, the lighthouse was automated, allowing for more efficient operation and reduced maintenance costs. Today, the lighthouse remains an important aid to navigation, serving as a beacon for ships navigating the Baltic Sea.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can explore the Mjölkö Lighthouse and its surrounding area. The lighthouse is open to the public during summer months, with guided tours available upon request.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

According to local legend, Mjölkö Lighthouse has been the site of several shipwrecks over the years. In one notable incident, a storm-ravaged vessel was seen attempting to anchor offshore, only to be driven back by strong winds and waves.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse is managed by the Swedish Maritime Administration. It is referenced on nautical charts as C 6446.

9. Further Information

The Mjölkö Lighthouse has been designated as a national cultural heritage site by the Swedish government, recognizing its importance in maritime history and architecture. For more information, please visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mjölkö_Lighthouse.