Arkö nedre fyr

The Arkö nedre fyr is a historic lighthouse located on the island of Gotland, Sweden.

History

• The construction of the Arkö nedre fyr began in 1847 and was completed in 1852. The lighthouse has played an important role in maritime navigation for over 170 years, serving as a vital aid to ships navigating the waters off the coast of Gotland.

Architecture

The Arkö nedre fyr is a characteristic example of a Swedish lighthouse from the mid-19th century. The tower stands at a height of approximately 20 meters (66 feet) above sea level and has a focal height of around 30 meters (98 feet). The lighthouse features a distinctive red-and-white striped pattern, with five distinct lights that rotate in a clockwise direction.

Light Characteristics

• The Arkö nedre fyr is equipped with five distinct lights, each rotating at a different speed to provide a unique warning system for mariners. The primary light emits a white beam with a range of 12 nautical miles (22 kilometers), while the secondary light shines green with a range of 3 nautical miles (5.6 kilometers). The other three lights emit red beams with ranges of 3, 5, and 8 nautical miles (5.6, 14.8, and 15 kilometers) respectively.

Current Status

The Arkö nedre fyr is currently an automated aid to navigation, no longer manned by a keeper. The lighthouse remains an important navigational aid, providing vital information for mariners navigating the waters off Gotland.

Location and Accessibility

The Arkö nedre fyr is located at Världens Ände on the island of Gotland, Sweden. Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the nearby parking area.

Heritage Status

The Arkö nedre fyr has been designated as a historic monument by the Swedish government, recognizing its importance in the country's maritime heritage.

Notable Historical Events

• The Arkö nedre fyr played an important role during World War II, serving as a vital aid to Allied ships navigating the waters off Gotland. The lighthouse also features prominently in the history of the Gotlandic coastguard, who have maintained the light since its construction in 1852.

Visiting Information

Due to its remote location and limited accessibility, visiting the Arkö nedre fyr requires careful planning and preparation. Visitors are advised to contact local authorities or a licensed guide service for further information on accessing the lighthouse.