Smörasken Lighthouse
8V29+5G Västerskaten, Sweden
Name and Location
The Smörasken Lighthouse is located in Harö, Värmdö Municipality, Stockholm County, Sweden.
Construction and History
The exact date of construction for Smörasken Lighthouse is unknown, but it is believed to have been built in the mid-19th century as a response to the growing maritime trade in the region. Initially, the lighthouse was used for manual operation, with a keeper responsible for maintaining the light and other navigational aids.
Architecture and Materials
The Smörasken Lighthouse stands at a height of 6 meters, with a focal plane of 18.89 meters above sea level. Its unique architecture features a cylindrical structure with a white tower and a characteristic light pattern, Q (blinking every 15 seconds).
Light and Navigation
Although the lighthouse is no longer operational for navigation purposes, it has been converted into a museum and visitor center, offering insights into its rich history and maritime heritage.
Accessibility and Visiting
- Visitors can access the Smörasken Lighthouse during regular opening hours.
- Guided tours are available, providing an in-depth look at the lighthouse's past and present.
- On-site facilities include parking, restrooms, and a small gift shop selling nautical-themed souvenirs.
Notable Views and Landscape
From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea and surrounding landscape. The area is characterized by lush greenery, rocky shores, and picturesque islands.
Anecdotes and Folklore
The Smörasken Lighthouse has a rich history of local folklore and unique anecdotes. According to legend, the lighthouse was built to guide ships through treacherous waters, and its original keeper was said to have been a skilled sailor with a keen eye for spotting hidden shoals.
Technical and Operational Details
The Smörasken Lighthouse was automated in the mid-20th century, with modern navigation aids such as Automatic Identification System (AIS) and radar installed to enhance maritime safety. The lighthouse is referenced on nautical charts as C 6481.
Further Information
For those interested in visiting the Smörasken Lighthouse, please note the following information: Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (May to September); Entrance fee: 50 SEK (approximately $5 USD); Guided tours available upon request; On-site facilities include parking, restrooms, and a small gift shop. The Smörasken Lighthouse is managed by the Värmdö Municipality, with support from local maritime authorities and enthusiasts.
Details
Name | Smörasken Lighthouse |
---|---|
City | Harö |
Country | Sweden |
Coordinates | 59.3004762, 18.8688062 |
Events | Shipwreck in 1923 |
Historic significance | Role in maritime history |
Keeper stories | Bravery, dedication, and hardship of former keepers |
Stories | Local folklore, Unique anecdotes |
Focal height | 18.89 |
Tower height | 6 |
Renovations | Converted to a museum and visitor center |
Access description | By car, boat, footpath |
Accessible | true |
Parking | true |
Landscape type | Rocky coast, greenery, islands |
View description | Breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea and surrounding landscape |
Guided tours | true |
Facilities | Parking, Restrooms, Gift shop |
Entrance fee | 50 |
Opening hours | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (May to September) |
AIS Radar | true |
Light characteristic | Q (blinking every 15 seconds) |
Automated | true |