Häädemeeste Tulepaak

The Häädemeeste Tulepaak is a lighthouse located on the coast of Estonia, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners.

History

• The lighthouse was built in 1857 and has been an important part of the country's maritime heritage ever since. Its construction was commissioned by the Estonian government to provide a safe passage for ships navigating the treacherous waters off the coast.
• The lighthouse played an important role during World War II, serving as a beacon for Allied ships navigating the Baltic Sea.

Architecture

The Häädemeeste Tulepaak is a distinctive tower, standing at a height of 32 meters above sea level. The lighthouse features a characteristic white color and is equipped with a Fresnel lens, which provides a powerful beam of light that can be seen from up to 11 nautical miles away.

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse emits a Fl (flash) pattern, with a sequence of 1.5+(3.5), indicating a flashing light that alternates between two different intensities. The light is powered by an electric motor and is operated manually by the keepers who reside in the adjacent keeper's house.

Current Status

The Häädemeeste Tulepaak remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its modernization in the 1990s. The lighthouse is no longer used as a residence for keepers and has been converted into a museum, open to visitors who wish to learn about its history and significance.

Location

The Häädemeeste Tulepaak is situated on the coast of Häädemeeste, a small town located in the Pärnu County of Estonia. The lighthouse can be easily accessed by car or public transportation, with parking facilities available nearby.

Heritage Status

The Häädemeeste Tulepaak has been recognized as a national cultural monument in Estonia, acknowledging its importance in the country's maritime history and its role in maintaining safe navigation for mariners.

Notable Historical Events

• The lighthouse played an important role during World War II, serving as a beacon for Allied ships navigating the Baltic Sea. The lighthouse also hosted several notable figures, including Estonian sailors who used it as a refuge during their voyages.