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Hólmavík

Hafnarbraut

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Hólmavík (Hólmavík)
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Hólmavík Lighthouse

The Hólmavík lighthouse is located on the western coast of Iceland, serving as a vital aid to navigation in the region.

History

  • The lighthouse was constructed in 1969 and has been an essential part of the country's maritime infrastructure ever since.

Architecture and Construction

The tower height of the Hólmavík lighthouse stands at approximately 15 meters (49 feet), while its focal height reaches around 25 meters (82 feet) above sea level.

  • The light source is a red, white, and green rotating beacon with a distinctive Fl (first order) character.

Light Characteristics

The Hólmavík lighthouse emits a powerful beam of light that can be seen from a distance of up to 12 nautical miles in the north, 13 nautical miles in the east, and 12 nautical miles in the south.

  • The light is powered by an automated system and operates continuously.

Current Status

The Hólmavík lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been largely superseded by modern electronic navigation aids.

However, its historic significance and picturesque location make it a popular destination for tourists and enthusiasts of maritime history.

Location and Accessibility

Hólmavík is situated in the western part of Iceland, near the town of Húsavík.

  • The lighthouse can be accessed via a short walk from the nearby road, and visitors can also explore the surrounding area, which offers stunning views of the fjord and the surrounding landscape.

Heritage Status

The Hólmavík lighthouse is not listed as a protected monument or heritage site, although it remains an important part of Iceland's maritime history and cultural identity.

Notable Historical Events

  • While there are no specific historical events associated with the Hólmavík lighthouse, the surrounding area has been home to various human settlements for centuries.
  • Archaeological evidence suggests that the region was inhabited by indigenous people during the Tertiary period, and more recent excavations have uncovered fossils and other artifacts from this era.

Note:

The information provided is based on the available data and may not be comprehensive or up-to-date.

Details

NameHólmavík
CityHólmavík
CountryIceland
Coordinates65.70517, -21.67461
Current useactive aid to navigation