Russarö Lighthouse
Lighthouse in Finland
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Russarö Lighthouse (Finnish: Russarön majakka, Swedish: Russarö fyr) is a lighthouse situated on the island of Russarö, outside Hanko, Finland, at the western extremity of the Gulf of Finland in the Baltic Sea.[1][2] It is commonly known as Hangon silmä (lit. 'The Eye of Hanko').[3]
Russarö lighthouse in 2013 | |
 | |
| Location | Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 59.773333°N 22.943333°E |
| Tower | |
| Constructed | 1863  |
| Foundation | Granite |
| Construction | Brick |
| Automated | 1949 |
| Height | 21 m (69 ft) |
| Shape | Octagonal |
| Markings | Red |
| Power source | electricity |
| Light | |
| First lit | 1863 |
| Focal height | 34.2 m (112 ft) |
| Range | 16.9 nmi (31.3 km; 19.4 mi) |
| Characteristic | Fl(4) W 45s |
Earlier unilluminated daymarks and lighthouses existed on the spot, dating back to 1815.[2] The current lighthouse was built in 1863, making it one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in Finland.[3] It was the first in Finland to operate also during winter months, due to the Port of Hanko being in the 19th century the only port open throughout the year.[1]
Constructed of bricks and mortar over a granite base, the lighthouse is octagonal in shape and comprises five storeys.[3] The top floor features a beautiful vaulted ceiling.[1] The base is natural stone colour (brown), the main tower red.[2]
In the summer months, day cruises to the island of Russarö are operated from Hanko's Eastern Harbour.[3] However, due to the dilapidated state of the lighthouse, visitors are no longer allowed entry into the tower.[1]
