Welcome to the Eckernförde Lighthouse, a beacon of maritime history nestled in the charming coastal town of Eckernförde, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Known locally as Leuchtturm Eckernförde, this lighthouse stands as a testament to the town's rich nautical heritage and continues to guide sailors safely through the waters of the Eckernförde Bay.
The story of the Eckernförde Lighthouse begins in 1907 when the first structure was erected. This initial lighthouse featured a rectangular guardhouse with a prominent lantern room at the top. Originally powered by a kerosene lamp, it was modernized and electrified in 1926, marking a significant advancement in its functionality. However, the lighthouse's journey was far from straightforward.
In 1913, just six years after its construction, the Imperial Navy established a torpedo research center directly beneath the lighthouse. This new development posed a unique challenge, as the lighthouse's sector light directed through the torpedo testing area. Rather than relocating the lighthouse, a temporary warning sector was introduced, a solution that remained in place for over seventy years.
In 1986, a new chapter began with the construction of the current Eckernförde Lighthouse, located approximately 575 meters northwest of the original site. This modern lighthouse is a striking 27-meter-tall concrete structure with two distinctive red quadrangular galleries. It houses three directional sector lights at a focal height of 36 meters, ensuring that its signals are visible to mariners from a considerable distance.
The lighthouse's light source is a 230V/2000W xenon discharge lamp, equipped with a Fresnel lens to enhance its visibility. Its automated system is meticulously maintained by the Wasser-und Schifffahrtsamt of Lübeck and monitored by the traffic center in Travemünde, ensuring its continuous operation.
The Eckernförde Lighthouse is not just a functional maritime structure; it is a fascinating destination for those interested in nautical history and engineering. The lighthouse emits three long flashes (white, red, and green) every four seconds in the northeast sector, with visibility ranges of 21 nautical miles (approximately 39 km) for the white light, 18 nautical miles (approximately 33 km) for the red light, and 19 nautical miles (approximately 35 km) for the green light.
Additionally, the lighthouse features a maritime light that emits two white flashes every nine seconds in the eastern sector, visible up to 21 nautical miles. There is also a fixed light that continuously emits white and red lights in the northeast sector, with ranges of 12 nautical miles (approximately 22 km) for the white light and 18 nautical miles for the red light.
Today, the Eckernförde Lighthouse plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of vessels navigating the waters of the Baltic Sea. Its automated system allows for seamless operation, providing reliable guidance to mariners. The lighthouse's robust design and advanced lighting technology make it a vital component of the region's maritime infrastructure.
Visitors to Eckernförde can enjoy the picturesque views of the lighthouse set against the backdrop of the serene coastal landscape. The lighthouse stands as a symbol of the town's enduring connection to the sea and its commitment to maritime safety.
While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, its striking presence and the surrounding area offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. The nearby beaches and coastal trails provide a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, with the lighthouse serving as a scenic landmark. The town of Eckernförde, with its charming streets, historic buildings, and vibrant maritime culture, is well worth a visit.
In conclusion, the Eckernförde Lighthouse is more than just a navigational aid; it is a beacon of history, innovation, and community. Its story, from its humble beginnings in 1907 to its modern incarnation, reflects the resilience and ingenuity of the people of Eckernförde. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a maritime aficionado, or simply a traveler seeking beautiful coastal scenery, the Eckernförde Lighthouse is a must-see destination.
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