Westkapelle Lighthouse
Zeeland
The Westkapelle Lighthouse, also called 'Westkapelle Hoog' or 'Hoge licht', is the tallest lighthouse in Westkapelle, Zeeland, Netherlands. Originally part of the Sint-Willibrorduskerk built between 1458 and 1470, the tower survived the destruction of the church and was converted into a lighthouse in 1818. This brick Gothic tower stands 52 meters tall and is visible for 28 nautical miles, serving as a crucial navigational aid guiding ships through the busy shipping lanes into the Scheldt estuary towards major ports such as Flushing and Antwerp. Its architecture is reminiscent of notable regional towers, inspired by the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk in Bruges. The lighthouse operates alongside a smaller 16-meter cast iron lighthouse built in 1875; together they form leading lights for maritime navigation. The tower has witnessed significant historical events, including damage during World War II and the devastating 1944 bombing that flooded the area to liberate it from German occupation. Today, the lighthouse is a symbol of maritime heritage and resilience, offering spectacular panoramic views of the sea and surrounding village from its dyke location.
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Tip: The best time to visit Westkapelle Lighthouse is during clear weather when panoramic sea views are most impressive. Visitors are encouraged to check opening hours and consider purchasing tickets in advance via the official Polderhuis Westkapelle website to avoid queues. Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and groups. The lighthouse is accessible by foot or bike, and exploring the surrounding dyke offers additional scenic opportunities. Guided tours may be offered seasonally, providing deeper insights into the lighthouse's history and function.
Interesting facts
- •The lighthouse tower was originally part of the Sint-Willibrorduskerk, a brick Gothic church built between 1458 and 1470.
- •The lighthouse light was first added in 1818, transforming the church tower into a maritime beacon.
- •The tower stands 52 meters tall and its light is visible up to 28 nautical miles (52 km).
- •Westkapelle has two active lighthouses that function together as leading lights for ships entering the Scheldt estuary.
- •A third lighthouse on the inner dyke is part of the Dyke and War Museum and has never been active.
- •The area was heavily bombed in 1944 during WWII to flood German troops, an event known locally as 't Bombardement'.
- •An M4 Sherman tank memorial stands on the dyke near the lighthouse to commemorate the war and liberation.
- •The lighthouse's architecture is inspired by the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk in Bruges and shares similarities with other regional towers.
History
Westkapelle Lighthouse originated as the tower of the Sint-Willibrorduskerk, constructed between 1458 and 1470 after the original church was demolished due to encroaching sea waters.
In 1818, the tower was adapted to serve as a lighthouse with the installation of a copper dome lantern.
The church itself was destroyed by fire in 1831, leaving the tower as a standalone structure.
The lighthouse has since undergone several upgrades, including the replacement of Argand oil lamps with a catadioptric light system in 1852.
During World War II, the surrounding area suffered heavy bombing and flooding, but the lighthouse remained a prominent landmark.
Over time, it has continued to serve as a critical navigation point for vessels entering the Scheldt estuary.
Place Guide
Sint-Willibrorduskerk Tower1458-1470
Originally the church tower built between 1458 and 1470, now serving as the lighthouse. Its brick Gothic architecture is notable and inspired by regional styles. Visitors can appreciate the historical significance and architectural details.
Lighthouse Lantern1818
Installed in 1818, the copper dome lantern houses the lighthouse's light source. Initially equipped with 15 Argand oil lamps, it has undergone upgrades to modern lighting optics.
Dyke and Surrounding Area
The lighthouse stands on the dyke at the westernmost tip of Walcheren island, offering a 360° panoramic view over the village, sea, and busy shipping lanes. Nearby lies the general cemetery of Westkapelle and a WWII memorial with an M4 Sherman tank.
Contact
Phone: 0118 570 700
