Kalsholmen Fyr

The Kalsholmen Fyr is situated on the island of Kalsholmen, located off the coast of Meløy in Nordland, Norway.

The lighthouse can be accessed by boat or via a short walk from the nearby village of Meløy.

History

The Kalsholmen Fyr was built in 1888 to serve as a navigational aid for mariners navigating the treacherous waters of the Lofoten Islands.

The lighthouse has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years, with the most recent being in the 1990s.

Architecture

The Kalsholmen Fyr is a typical Norwegian lighthouse design, featuring a cylindrical tower with a distinctive red-and-white striped pattern.

The tower stands at a height of approximately 13.5 meters (44 feet) above sea level, while the focal height is around 30.5 meters (100 feet).

Light Characteristics

The Kalsholmen Fyr features a unique light pattern, with eight distinct beams that rotate in a clockwise direction.

Each beam has its own unique sequence and sector start/stop points, allowing the lighthouse to provide multiple warnings of potential hazards.

Current Status

The Kalsholmen Fyr is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since the 1990s.

The lighthouse remains a popular tourist destination and is open to visitors during the summer months.

Heritage Status

The Kalsholmen Fyr was listed as a protected cultural heritage site in Norway in 2001, recognizing its historical significance as an important navigational aid for mariners.

Notable Historical Events

The Kalsholmen Fyr played a significant role in the development of maritime navigation in Norway during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The lighthouse was also used as a reference point for several notable maritime expeditions, including those led by Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen.