Ryvarden Fyr

The Ryvarden Fyr is a historic lighthouse located on the island of Ryvarden, off the coast of Norway. The lighthouse has been an important aid to navigation for mariners since its construction in 1878.

Architecture

• The Ryvarden Fyr is a characteristic Norwegian lighthouse design, with a cylindrical tower and a distinctive red-and-white striped pattern.
• The tower stands at a height of 22.3 meters (73 feet) above the sea level, while the focal height is 64.4 meters (211 feet).
• The lighthouse has six distinct light patterns, each with its own unique characteristics.

Light Characteristics

1. A green light at 5 seconds, visible from a distance of 9.3 nautical miles
2. A white light at 10 seconds, visible from a distance of 12.4 nautical miles
3. A red light at 15 seconds, visible from a distance of 9.8 nautical miles
4. A green light at 20 seconds, visible from a distance of 9.3 nautical miles
5. A white light at 25 seconds, visible from a distance of 12.4 nautical miles
6. A red light at 30 seconds, visible from a distance of 9.8 nautical miles

Current Status

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

Location and Accessibility

The Ryvarden Fyr is located on the island of Ryvarden, off the coast of Sveio in southern Norway.

The lighthouse can be accessed via a small ferry from the nearby town of Sveio. Visitors can also reach the lighthouse by boat, although this requires permission from the Norwegian Coast Guard.

Heritage Status

The Ryvarden Fyr is listed as a protected cultural heritage site in Norway and is considered an important part of the country's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

• The construction of the Skagerrak Bridge in 1921, which required careful navigation around the lighthouse
• The rescue of a shipwrecked vessel in 1950, when the lighthouse's light helped guide the survivors to safety
• The installation of a new optic lens in 1995, which improved the lighthouse's beam and increased its range