St. Margarethen Oberfeuer

Location and Accessibility

The St. Margarethen Oberfeuer is situated on Elbuferweg in Sankt Margarethen, Germany. The lighthouse is easily accessible by car or public transportation, making it a convenient stop for visitors.

Heritage Status

The St. Margarethen Oberfeuer has been recognized as a notable landmark and is protected under German heritage law.

Notable Historical Events

• The St. Margarethen Oberfeuer was built in 1875 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners on the Elbe River.
• The lighthouse played a crucial role during World War II, serving as a communication hub between German forces and local authorities.

Current Status

The St. Margarethen Oberfeuer is currently an automated lighthouse, no longer manned by a keeper. However, it remains an active aid to navigation, providing vital guidance for mariners in the region.

Architecture and Construction Materials

The St. Margarethen Oberfeuer was constructed using traditional German building techniques and materials, including stone and brickwork.

The tower stands at 36.5 meters (120 feet) tall, with a focal height of approximately 65 meters (213 feet). The lighthouse features a distinctive white light with an isosceles pattern, visible from a range of 19 nautical miles.

History

The St. Margarethen Oberfeuer was built in response to growing maritime traffic on the Elbe River. Construction began in 1875 and took several months to complete.

The lighthouse has undergone minor renovations over the years but remains an important part of Germany's maritime heritage.

Light Characteristics

• Pattern: Iso (isosceles)
• Range: 19 nautical miles
• Colour: White