Långe Jan Lighthouse
Kalmar län
Långe Jan Lighthouse, officially known as Ölands södra udde, is a historic maritime beacon located at the southern tip of the island of Öland, Sweden. First lit on November 1, 1785, after nearly two years of construction, it was originally built as an open coal-fired lighthouse. The tower was initially 60 alnar (approximately 36 meters) tall and has since been extended to its current height of 41.6 meters, making it the tallest lighthouse in Sweden. It features a diameter of about 12 meters and 197 steps leading to the top. The lighthouse has undergone several modifications, including the addition of a lantern and pulley system in 1907, white plastering in 1845, and electrification in 1948. Today, Långe Jan operates as a fully automated, unmanned lighthouse. The site is a popular tourist attraction open to visitors during the summer months for a fee. Nearby, visitors can also explore the Ottenby Bird Observatory, a nature center managed by the Swedish Ornithological Society, and enjoy local amenities such as a restaurant. The lighthouse’s nickname, "Långe Jan," is believed to derive from a medieval chapel dedicated to Saint John (S:t Johannes) that once stood nearby, with stones from the chapel used in the lighthouse's construction. Since June 5, 2008, Långe Jan has been protected as a state heritage building, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Långe Jan Lighthouse is during the summer when the tower is open to the public. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist season to ensure entry. Visitors can also explore the nearby Ottenby Bird Observatory and nature center for a full day of sightseeing. Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the 197 steps to the top. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, or children. Check the official website or contact the visitor center for up-to-date opening hours and accessibility information.
Faits intéressants
- •Långe Jan is the tallest lighthouse in Sweden at 41.6 meters.
- •The lighthouse has 197 steps leading to its top.
- •Stones from a medieval chapel dedicated to Saint John were used in its construction.
- •The lighthouse was originally a coal-fired beacon before electrification in 1948.
- •It became a protected heritage site in 1935 and a state heritage building in 2008.
Histoire
The lighthouse was constructed between 1783 and 1785 and first lit on November 1, 1785.
It was originally an open coal-fired lighthouse with storage chambers for coal inside the tower.
The lantern and pulley system currently in use date from 1907.
The tower was whitewashed in 1845 and later adorned with a distinctive black ring.
Electrification occurred in 1948, transitioning the lighthouse to modern operation.
It was designated a protected heritage site in 1935 and elevated to a state heritage building in 2008.
The nickname 'Långe Jan' traces back to a medieval chapel dedicated to Saint John, whose stones were repurposed for the lighthouse's construction.
Guide du lieu
Långe Jan Tower1785
The main lighthouse tower, standing 41.6 meters tall with 197 steps to the top, offers panoramic views of Öland's southern tip and the Baltic Sea. Visitors can explore the historic lantern room and learn about the lighthouse's evolution from coal fire to electric light.
Ottenby Bird Observatory
Located near the lighthouse, this ornithological station is managed by the Swedish Ornithological Society. It offers nature exhibitions, birdwatching opportunities, and educational programs about local wildlife.
Contact
Téléphone: 0485-16 09 09
