Kotkan Majakka

The Kotkan Majakka, also known as the Kotka Lighthouse, is a historic lighthouse located on the coast of Finland.

History

• The Kotkan Majakka was constructed in 1909 and has been guiding mariners safely through the waters of the Baltic Sea ever since. The lighthouse played an important role in the maritime trade and navigation of the region during its operational years.
• The lighthouse was constructed to serve as a navigational aid, providing safe passage for ships and sailors.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The Kotkan Majakka is a tall, white concrete tower with a distinctive shape, standing at 23 meters (75 feet) above sea level. The lighthouse features a characteristic lantern room with a rotating Fresnel lens. Its construction materials include reinforced concrete and steel.

Light Characteristics

• The Kotkan Majakka emits a powerful beam of light that can be seen for up to 12 nautical miles.
• The light's pattern is a Fl (first order) signal, indicating the presence of a navigational aid.
• The lighthouse operates on a 30-second cycle, with the light rotating every 30 seconds.

Current Status

The Kotkan Majakka is currently an inactive aid to navigation, having been automated in the mid-20th century. However, it remains an important part of Finland's maritime heritage and is occasionally used for educational purposes or as a museum exhibit.

Location and Accessibility

The Kotkan Majakka is situated on the coast of Loviisa, Uusimaa region, Finland. The lighthouse can be accessed via a short walkway from the nearby parking area. Visitors can view the lighthouse from a distance, but access to the tower itself is restricted due to safety concerns.

Heritage Status

The Kotkan Majakka has been recognized as a cultural and historical landmark in Finland, reflecting the country's rich maritime heritage. The lighthouse is listed on various national registers of historic buildings and monuments.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Kotkan Majakka played a significant role in the defense of Finnish ports against German naval attacks.
• The lighthouse was also used as a reference point for navigation during the war.