673 – Ristna lighthouse

Region: Hiiu and Lääne county     Coordinates: 58.940033 N, 22.055217 E
Light running: Night     Light characteristics: LFl W/R 15s
Height from ground (m): 30     Height from sea level (m): 37
Light visible (miles): 12     Built: 1874
The decision to build a second lighthouse on the Kõpu peninsula on the island of Hiiumaa was taken in 1873 because of constant fogs, which made the old Kõpu lighthouse often invisible. The second and a very important function of the Ristna lighthouse was to warn the seafarers about the drifting ice on the Gulf of Finland that could cause navigation problems. The 30m boilerplate construction was completed in 1874. The tower survived World War I without major damages, but was nevertheless cast in concrete in 1920 to increase the stability. Although this covered the tower’s spectacular iron construction, Ristna still remains distinct among other lighthouses with its eight iron counterforts and cast-iron gallery on the top. The whole lighthouse ensemble with many outbuildings is listed as an architectural monument.