Gálgatangi Rear Lighthouse

The Gálgatangi rear lighthouse is located on the island of Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands.

History

• The Gálgatangi rear lighthouse has been guiding mariners since its construction in 1975. The lighthouse was built to serve as a backup for the nearby Gálgatangi front lighthouse, which was damaged by storms in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Architecture

The tower of the Gálgatangi rear lighthouse stands at a height of 22 meters (72 feet) above sea level. The focal height is 44 meters (144 feet), making it an important aid to navigation for vessels approaching the island's harbor. The lighthouse features a distinctive cylindrical shape with a white and red striped exterior, designed to be highly visible in all weather conditions.

Light Characteristics

The Gálgatangi rear lighthouse emits two powerful beams of light, one to the north and one to the south. Both beams are white and have a range of 11 nautical miles (20 kilometers). The light is characterized by an Iso character, indicating that it has a fixed beam pattern with no flashing or pulsing.

Current Status

The Gálgatangi rear lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its primary function is now supplemented by automated aids. The lighthouse is still maintained and monitored by the Faroese authorities to ensure its continued reliability.

Location and Accessibility

The Gálgatangi rear lighthouse is situated on Byrgishavn, a small headland in Ørðavíkslið, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands. The location can be accessed via a short walk from the nearby harbor area.

Heritage Status

The Gálgatangi rear lighthouse has been designated as a protected cultural heritage site by the Faroese government, recognizing its importance in the country's maritime history and navigation traditions.

Notable Historical Events

• No events reported.