Rohuküla Sadama Lõunamuuli Tulepaak

The Rohuküla Sadama Lõunamuuli Tulepaak is a historic lighthouse located on the southern shore of Rohuküla Bay, in Haapsalu, Estonia. This structure has played a significant role in maritime navigation and safety for over eight decades.

History

Construction of the Rohuküla Sadama Lõunamuuli Tulepaak began in 1938. The lighthouse was built to serve as an aid to navigation for ships approaching Haapsalu Harbour, providing a reliable means of orientation in the challenging coastal environment.

Architecture

The Rohuküla Sadama Lõunamuuli Tulepaak is a 30-meter-tall (98 ft) concrete tower with a distinctive square base. The lighthouse's architectural style is characteristic of early 20th-century Estonian maritime structures, featuring a robust and functional design that prioritizes safety and efficiency.

Light Characteristics

The Rohuküla Sadama Lõunamuuli Tulepaak features a fixed red light with a range of approximately 18 nautical miles (33 km). The lighthouse's light characteristics are designed to provide clear guidance for mariners approaching Haapsalu Harbour, particularly during periods of low visibility.

Current Status

The Rohuküla Sadama Lõunamuuli Tulepaak is currently an automated aid to navigation. While it no longer serves as a manned station, the structure remains an important part of Estonia's maritime heritage and continues to provide essential guidance for mariners navigating the region.

Location and Accessibility

The Rohuküla Sadama Lõunamuuli Tulepaak is situated on the southern shore of Rohuküla Bay, approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) west of Haapsalu Harbour. The lighthouse can be accessed via a short walking path from the nearby Heltermaa Ice Road.

Heritage Status

The Rohuküla Sadama Lõunamuuli Tulepaak has been recognized as a cultural monument in Estonia, reflecting the country's rich maritime history and architectural heritage.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Rohuküla Sadama Lõunamuuli Tulepaak played an important role in supporting Allied naval operations in the Baltic Sea. The lighthouse's strategic location made it a key point of reference for mariners navigating the region during this period.