Almagrundet lighthouse, Concrete lighthouse in Värmdö kommun, Sweden
Almagrundet is a cylindrical concrete lighthouse tower that rises 30 meters above sea level, with a double balcony and lantern at the top. The structure features a helipad where solar panels power LED lights that flash every 12 seconds to guide ships passing through the Baltic waters.
This lighthouse replaced a series of lightships in 1964, ending the long era when the vessel Svenska Björn had guided maritime traffic in the area since 1912. The transition from floating aids to a fixed structure represented a major shift in how navigation was managed in these waters.
The name Almagrundet comes from the Norwegian brig Alma, which ran aground during a severe storm in these waters back in 1866. This shipwreck left a lasting mark on the local maritime identity and is still remembered by sailors in the region.
The lighthouse operates on solar power installed on the helipad, making it largely self-sufficient and reliable in all weather conditions. Since it sits on open water away from the mainland, access is only possible by boat, so plan accordingly if you want to approach it closely.
The tower features a striking black body with a broad red horizontal band in the upper section, making it stand out distinctly against the Baltic horizon. This color pattern serves both as a visual landmark and helps sailors quickly spot the navigation aid from considerable distances.
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