Vahase Tulepaak Lighthouse

The Vahase tulepaak lighthouse is a historic maritime aid located on the island of Abruka in Saaremaa, Estonia.

History

• The construction of the lighthouse began in 1911 and was completed in 1912. It has been an important navigation aid for mariners navigating the waters around Abruka.
• The lighthouse was designed by Estonian architect and engineer, August Kaim.

Architecture

The Vahase tulepaak lighthouse is a tall, cylindrical structure with a distinctive red-and-white striped pattern. The tower stands at a height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet) above the sea level, while its focal height reaches 35 meters (115 feet).

The lighthouse is constructed from limestone and features a distinctive red-and-white striped pattern. The tower's design is characteristic of early 20th-century Estonian lighthouses, with a focus on simplicity and functionality.

Light Characteristics

The Vahase tulepaak lighthouse emits a fixed white light that can be seen from a distance of approximately 15 nautical miles (28 kilometers).

The light source is reportedly an oil-fired lamp, although the exact details are not available.

Current Status

The Vahase tulepaak lighthouse was decommissioned in 1995 and is no longer used as an active navigation aid. However, it has been restored to its original condition and now serves as a museum and cultural heritage site.

Location and Accessibility

The Vahase tulepaak lighthouse is located on the island of Abruka in Saaremaa, Estonia.

The lighthouse can be accessed via a short walk from the nearby village of Abruka küla. Visitors can explore the lighthouse tower and learn about its history and significance.

Heritage Status

The Vahase tulepaak lighthouse is listed as a cultural heritage site in Estonia, recognizing its historical importance as a maritime aid and navigation aid.

Notable Historical Events

During World War II, the Vahase tulepaak lighthouse played an important role in the defense of Saaremaa. The lighthouse was used to guide Allied forces during the invasion of the island, and it is believed that German forces attempted to destroy the lighthouse as part of their efforts to disrupt Allied navigation.

Today, the Vahase tulepaak lighthouse remains a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Estonia's rich maritime history.