Æðey Lighthouse

The Æðey lighthouse was built in the 19th century as part of a larger project to establish a farm on Eider Island, located in the Westfjords region of Iceland.

History

• The höfuðból, which translates to "head building," served as both the farmhouse and the residence for the family that maintained the farm during the summer months.

The Æðey lighthouse is a prominent structure with a distinctive design. Its tower height is 30 meters (98 feet), while its focal height reaches 113 meters (371 feet) above sea level.

Architecture

• Fl (white, 22 seconds); Fl (green, 22 seconds); Fl (white, 22 seconds); Fl (green, 22 seconds); Fl (white, 22 seconds); and Fl (red, 22 seconds).

The lighthouse features six distinct light patterns. The light's range extends up to 13 nautical miles in each direction.

Location

Æðey Island is situated in the Westfjords region of Iceland, approximately 401 kilometers (250 miles) northwest of Reykjavik.

• Visitors to the island can explore the lighthouse, weather station, and surrounding landscape. However, due to the sensitive nature of the eider population, visitors are advised to exercise caution when approaching the island's wildlife habitats.

Heritage Status

The Æðey lighthouse is listed as a protected cultural heritage site in Iceland.

Notable Historical Events

Æðey Island has played an important role in Icelandic maritime history, serving as a vital navigation aid for ships traveling through the treacherous Westfjords waters.

Current Status

The Æðey lighthouse is currently active, with automated systems in place to monitor and maintain its operations. However, due to the island's remote location, human maintenance visits are limited, and the lighthouse relies on advanced technology to ensure its continued functionality.

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve the lighthouse and surrounding structures for future generations.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office continues to operate the weather station, providing critical data for local communities and researchers alike.

Accessibility

Visitors can access Æðey Island by boat or ferry from nearby ports. However, due to the island's remote location and sensitive wildlife habitats, visitors are required to exercise caution when approaching the island.

The lighthouse itself is open to visitors during designated hours, providing a unique opportunity to explore this historic structure and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.