Långe Erik, Coastal lighthouse in Byxelkrok, Sweden
Långe Erik is a white cylindrical lighthouse standing on Stora Grunden island off the Öland coast, topped with a grey metal lantern. Several buildings surround the tower, including a visitor center reached from the mainland by a bridge.
The lighthouse was built in 1845 as a limestone structure to guide ships through Baltic waters. Its design was created by a notable Swedish architect, and the site later became a protected cultural monument.
The name "Långe Erik" comes from a legendary seafarer in local folklore, connecting the island to ancient maritime tales. Visitors sense this link to the sea's past as they explore the grounds.
The tower is open to visitors during the summer months, with tickets available at the visitor center. The surrounding grounds are easy to explore, and the path to the tower is clearly marked.
The lighthouse emits a distinctive flash pattern that sailors throughout the region could recognize. This specific signal frequency was crucial for navigation before modern technology arrived.
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