Getholmen Lighthouse

The Getholmen lighthouse was built in 1939 and has been an important aid to navigation on the Swedish coast ever since.

History

• The Getholmen lighthouse was built in 1939 and has been an important aid to navigation on the Swedish coast ever since. Located in the picturesque town of Sandhamn, this lighthouse has played a crucial role in guiding mariners safely through the waters of the Baltic Sea.

Architecture

• The Getholmen lighthouse is a classic example of modern lighthouse design, with a distinctive cylindrical tower that rises to a height of 11 meters (36 feet). The tower is constructed from reinforced concrete and features a distinctive green and white striped pattern.
• The lighthouse has six distinct light sources, each with its own unique color and period of operation.

Light Characteristics

• The Getholmen lighthouse emits a powerful beam that can be seen for up to 3 nautical miles (5.6 kilometers) in the direction of the sector end.
• The light source is a Fl (flash) pattern, with each light source operating for 6 seconds and then extinguished for 6 seconds.

Current Status

The Getholmen lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its construction. Visitors can still access the lighthouse and view its impressive beam from a safe distance.

Location and Accessibility

• The Getholmen lighthouse is located on Trovillevägen in Sandhamn, Sweden.
• The town of Sandhamn is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with regular buses connecting to nearby towns and cities. Visitors can also access the lighthouse via a scenic coastal path that runs along the shores of the Baltic Sea.

Heritage Status

The Getholmen lighthouse has been designated as a protected cultural heritage site in Sweden, recognizing its importance as an example of modern lighthouse design and its role in the country's maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Getholmen lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding Allied ships safely through Swedish waters. The lighthouse's beam was used to guide convoys of ships carrying vital supplies to the Soviet Union, helping to ensure their safe passage through some of the most treacherous waters in the Baltic Sea.