Tahkuna Tuletorn

The Tahkuna tuletorn, also known as Leuchtturm Tahkuna, is a historic lighthouse located on the island of Hiiumaa in Estonia.

History

• The construction of this tower began in 1897 and was completed by 1900.
• It has been an important aid to navigation for mariners in the Baltic Sea ever since.

Architecture

The Tahkuna tuletorn is a wooden lighthouse with a distinctive octagonal shape, standing at a height of 43 meters (141 feet) above sea level.

The focal height of the tower is 55 meters (180 feet), providing an excellent range for navigation.

The light source is a first-order Fresnel lens, which emits a characteristic LFl pattern.

Light Characteristics

• The Tahkuna tuletorn's light has a range of 12 nautical miles and is visible in all directions within a sector of 95° to 253.5°.
• The light is white in color and flashes at a period of 15 seconds.

Current Status

The Tahkuna tuletorn remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the 1990s.

Today, the lighthouse serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Estonia's rich maritime history.

Location and Accessibility

The Tahkuna tuletorn is located at Tahkuna majaka tee on the island of Hiiumaa in Estonia.

The tower can be accessed via a short walk from the nearby village of Põdra.

Visitors can explore the lighthouse and its surrounding area, which offers stunning views of the Baltic Sea.

Heritage Status

The Tahkuna tuletorn is listed as a cultural monument of national significance in Estonia.

Its unique architecture and historical importance make it an important part of the country's maritime heritage.

Notable Historical Events

• The Tahkuna tuletorn played a significant role in Estonia's maritime history, particularly during World War II.
• The tower served as a vital aid to navigation for Allied forces, helping to guide ships safely through the Baltic Sea.