St. Ivan Island lighthouse, Lighthouse near Sozopol, Bulgaria.
St. Ivan Island lighthouse is a white structure reaching about 9 meters tall, standing on an island off the Bulgarian coast in the Black Sea region. The tower marks the entrance to Burgas Bay and serves navigation purposes for maritime traffic in this exposed location.
French engineers constructed this navigation structure in 1911 during the final phase of Ottoman control over the Bulgarian coast. The lighthouse was built during a time of significant political transition for the region.
The lighthouse carries maritime meaning for local seafarers and continues a nautical tradition that traces back to an ancient Roman structure once standing on the island. Today it remains a symbol of the enduring connection between the coastal community and the sea.
Visitors reach the lighthouse by boat services that depart from Sozopol, with schedules that vary according to weather conditions. It is wise to prepare for possible delays and check boat availability before planning a visit.
The island holds the remains of a 12th-century monastery beneath the water, which can be explored by divers interested in submerged structures. Additionally, the location serves as a nesting ground for about 72 bird species, making the island an important habitat.
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