Gerðistangi Lighthouse

The Gerðistangi Lighthouse is situated on the northern coast of Iceland, at an address of Narfakot, Vogar town.

• Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby road.

History

Construction of the Gerðistangi Lighthouse began in 1918, with the architect Thorvald Krabbe & Guðmundur J. Hlíðdal overseeing its completion.

The tower has been an important aid to navigation for mariners navigating the treacherous waters off Iceland's northern coast.

Architecture

The lighthouse is a sturdy structure built from traditional Icelandic materials, including stone and brick.

The tower stands at 11 meters tall, while its focal height reaches 22 meters into the air.

The tower features four distinct light sources, each with a unique color and pattern.

Light Characteristics

The Gerðistangi Lighthouse emits a distinctive four-color flash pattern: green, white, red, and white.

Each light source has a range of up to 6 nautical miles, making it an essential aid to navigation for vessels navigating the area.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation is now automated.

The tower serves as a museum, open to visitors who wish to learn more about Iceland's rich maritime history.

Heritage Status

The Gerðistangi Lighthouse has been recognized as a cultural and historical landmark in Iceland, reflecting the country's long tradition of maritime expertise and innovation.

Notable Historical Events

While no specific notable events are recorded for the Gerðistangi Lighthouse, its construction during World War I marked an important milestone in Iceland's development as a major maritime power.