Leuchtturm Greifswalder Oie

The Leuchtturm Greifswalder Oie is a historic lighthouse located on the island of Rügen, off the coast of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany.

History

• The Leuchtturm Greifswalder Oie was built in 1906 and has been guiding mariners through the waters of the Baltic Sea ever since. The tower stands at a height of 38.6 meters above sea level and is equipped with a Fresnel lens that produces a beam of light 26 nautical miles out to sea.

Architecture

The lighthouse was designed by architect Wilhelm von Hülsmann and constructed using local sandstone and brick. The tower's distinctive shape, with its four-story lantern room and spiral staircase, has become an iconic symbol of the region.

Light Characteristics

• The Leuchtturm Greifswalder Oie is equipped with a first-order Fresnel lens that produces a white light with a range of 26 nautical miles. The light is visible for approximately 3.8 seconds at a time, and its period is reported to be around 10 minutes.

Current Status

The Leuchtturm Greifswalder Oie is no longer an active aid to navigation, having been automated in the 1980s. Today, it serves as a museum and popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich maritime history.

Location and Accessibility

The lighthouse is located on the island of Rügen, off the coast of Kröslin, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Visitors can access the tower via a short walk from the nearby village of Kröslin.

Heritage Status

While not officially designated as a heritage site, the Leuchtturm Greifswalder Oie is widely regarded as an important cultural and historical landmark in the region.

Notable Historical Events

• The Leuchtturm Greifswalder Oie played a significant role during World War II, serving as a military outpost for German forces. The tower's Fresnel lens was reportedly used to guide enemy ships through treacherous waters.