Norðfjarðarvíti Lighthouse

The Norðfjarðarvíti lighthouse is located on the island of Fagradalsnes, off the coast of Iceland.

History

• The construction began in 1907 and was completed by 1910.
• The lighthouse played a crucial role in maritime navigation, guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the North Atlantic.

Architecture

The Norðfjarðarvíti lighthouse stands at an impressive height of 39 meters (128 feet) above sea level.

The lighthouse features a distinctive white and red striped pattern, with three distinct light sources that rotate in unison to provide a reliable beacon for mariners.

Light Characteristics

The Norðfjarðarvíti lighthouse emits a powerful beam of light, visible up to 15 nautical miles (28 kilometers) out to sea.

The light is characterized by a distinctive "Fl" pattern, indicating a fixed white light with a red sector to the north and west.

Current Status

The Norðfjarðarvíti lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its construction.

Today, the lighthouse serves as a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

Location

The Norðfjarðarvíti lighthouse is situated on the island of Fagradalsnes, off the coast of Neskaupstaður in northeastern Iceland.

Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby Sæbakki parking area.

Heritage Status

The Norðfjarðarvíti lighthouse has been designated as a national monument by the Icelandic government, recognizing its historical significance and importance to maritime navigation.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Norðfjarðarvíti lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding Allied ships through the treacherous waters of the North Atlantic.
• The lighthouse's beam was used to guide convoys of merchant vessels safely past German U-boat patrols.