Óshólar Lighthouse

The Óshólar lighthouse has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1969. Built by the Icelandic Coast Guard, it was designed to serve as a vital aid to navigation for mariners traversing the treacherous waters of the North Atlantic.

Architecture and Construction

The tower stands at an impressive height of 25 meters (82 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 30 meters (98 feet). Constructed from reinforced concrete and steel, the lighthouse features a distinctive red-and-white striped pattern on its exterior. The light source is a powerful beacon that emits a flashing red light every 20 seconds, visible up to 15 nautical miles away.

Light Characteristics

The Óshólar lighthouse emits two distinct flashes: one red and one white, each lasting for 3 seconds. This unique pattern allows mariners to distinguish the lighthouse from other navigational aids in the area. The light's range is estimated to be around 11 nautical miles.

Current Status

The Óshólar lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its role has been partially automated over the years. While it still serves as a vital reference point for mariners, its primary function has shifted to providing a visual warning system in conjunction with modern electronic aids.

Location and Accessibility

Located on the northern coast of Iceland, the Óshólar lighthouse is situated at the address Óshlíðarvegur. The nearby town of Bolungarvíkurkaupstaður provides access to basic amenities and services for visitors.

Heritage Status

The Óshólar lighthouse has been recognized as a significant cultural landmark in Iceland, contributing to the country's rich maritime heritage.

Notable Historical Events

While no specific notable events are recorded for the Óshólar lighthouse, its construction during a period of significant economic and social change in Iceland marked an important milestone in the country's development.

1. The Óshólar lighthouse has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1969. Built by the Icelandic Coast Guard, it was designed to serve as a vital aid to navigation for mariners traversing the treacherous waters of the North Atlantic.
2. The tower stands at an impressive height of 25 meters (82 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 30 meters (98 feet). Constructed from reinforced concrete and steel, the lighthouse features a distinctive red-and-white striped pattern on its exterior. The light source is a powerful beacon that emits a flashing red light every 20 seconds, visible up to 15 nautical miles away.
3. The Óshólar lighthouse emits two distinct flashes: one red and one white, each lasting for 3 seconds. This unique pattern allows mariners to distinguish the lighthouse from other navigational aids in the area. The light's range is estimated to be around 11 nautical miles.
4. The Óshólar lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its role has been partially automated over the years. While it still serves as a vital reference point for mariners, its primary function has shifted to providing a visual warning system in conjunction with modern electronic aids.
5. Located on the northern coast of Iceland, the Óshólar lighthouse is situated at the address Óshlíðarvegur. The nearby town of Bolungarvíkurkaupstaður provides access to basic amenities and services for visitors.
6. The Óshólar lighthouse has been recognized as a significant cultural landmark in Iceland, contributing to the country's rich maritime heritage.
7. While no specific notable events are recorded for the Óshólar lighthouse, its construction during a period of significant economic and social change in Iceland marked an important milestone in the country's development.

Heritage Status

The Óshólar lighthouse has been recognized as a significant cultural landmark in Iceland, contributing to the country's rich maritime heritage.

Notable Historical Events

While no specific notable events are recorded for the Óshólar lighthouse, its construction during a period of significant economic and social change in Iceland marked an important milestone in the country's development.