Kõpu Lighthouse, Historic lighthouse in Mägipe, Estonia
Description
Kõpu Lighthouse is a stone structure standing on the highest point of Hiiumaa Island, rising nearly 38 meters tall. The building features four strong buttresses made of limestone and granite that reinforce its sides.
History
Construction began in 1500 at the request of Hanseatic merchants and took roughly three decades to complete despite wars and disease, finally becoming operational in 1531. This history makes it one of the world's oldest continuously operating lighthouses.
Culture
The structure holds deep meaning in local maritime culture, showing how this island has long been connected to seafaring. Today, visitors experience how the building continues its traditional role of guiding ships through dangerous waters.
Practical
Visitors can enter the lighthouse and climb the stairs to reach observation platforms that offer views across the island and sea. The best time to visit is during clear weather when visibility is at its best.
Did you know?
The light beam sits over 100 meters above sea level, making it the highest positioned beacon signal in the entire Baltic Sea. This exceptional height allows the light to reach ships from remarkably far distances.
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Historic lighthouses around the world tell the story of the way ships have been guided for hundreds of years. From the rocky coast of Norway to the cliffs of the Pacific, these towers have helped sailors since ancient times. The Tower of Hercules in Spain has been shining over the sea since the...
Lighthouses tell the history of sailing with their shapes and building styles. Some go back to Roman times, like the Tower of Hercules in Galicia, a structure from the second century still working today. Others are from the Middle Ages, such as the Hook Lighthouse in Ireland, with its...
Estonia showcases limestone cliffs, medieval castle ruins, flowing waterfalls, and protected wild areas. This collection includes the Kõpu Lighthouse built in 1531 on Hiiumaa Island, the submerged stone quarries of Rummu, and numerous manor houses from the 1800s. Natural features include meteorite...
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