Urk Lighthouse
Flevoland
Urk Lighthouse, located on the eastern banks of the IJsselmeer in the Netherlands, is a historic maritime beacon that has guided fishermen and ships since 1617. The current brick tower was built between 1844 and 1845 and later raised by over five meters in 1901 to overcome visual obstruction from a nearby church. It stands 18.5 meters tall and is notable for being the only lighthouse on the IJsselmeer and Markermeer equipped with a rotating Fresnel lens, which rotates counterclockwise, a unique feature in the Netherlands. The lighthouse was restored in 1972 and declared a national monument in 1982. Visitors can explore the tower during guided tours, enjoy spectacular views over Urk and the IJsselmeer, and learn about its maritime history. A new copper roof was installed during maintenance in 2009, preserving its historical charm. The lighthouse remains an important symbol of Urk's nautical heritage and a popular tourist attraction.
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Tip: The lighthouse is open to the public during the autumn, Christmas, spring, and May holidays from 14:00 to 16:00, and daily from 11:00 to 17:00 during the summer holidays and Easter and Pentecost weekends. It is advisable to check opening hours in case of severe weather conditions such as strong winds or thunderstorms. Outside these times, visits can be arranged by appointment. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, and discounted rates are available for children aged 4 to 12.
Interesting facts
- •Urk Lighthouse is the only lighthouse on the IJsselmeer and Markermeer with a rotating Fresnel lens that turns counterclockwise, known as a 'French light'.
- •The lighthouse tower was raised by over five meters in 1901 to prevent the light from being obscured by the Bethelkerk church.
- •The lighthouse was declared a national monument of the Netherlands in 1982.
- •A new copper roof was installed during maintenance in 2009 to preserve the structure.
- •The lighthouse has been in operation since 1617, making it one of the oldest active navigational aids in the region.
History
The origin of Urk Lighthouse dates back to 1617 when a coal fire was used to guide local fishermen and ships sailing from Amsterdam to the North Sea.
The first beacon was commissioned by the Amsterdam mayor Gerrit Jacob Witsen on behalf of the States of Holland and West Friesland.
In 1837, a square beacon was built but was replaced in 1844-1845 by the current round brick tower attached to a keeper's house.
In 1901, the tower was raised to prevent the light from being blocked by the enlarged Bethelkerk church built in 1885.
The rotating Fresnel lens was installed in 1876, made by the French company Barbier, Benard & Turenne, and is notable for rotating counterclockwise, unlike other Dutch lighthouses.
Place Guide
The Lighthouse Tower1845
The 18.5-meter tall brick tower built between 1844 and 1845, raised in 1901, offers panoramic views of the IJsselmeer and the town of Urk. Visitors can climb the tower during guided tours to experience the maritime history and architecture.
Rotating Fresnel Lens1876
This unique lens, installed in 1876 by the French firm Barbier, Benard & Turenne, rotates counterclockwise, making Urk Lighthouse the only Dutch lighthouse with this feature. It is still operational and a key part of the lighthouse's navigational system.
Keeper's House1845
Attached to the tower, the keeper's house historically accommodated lighthouse keepers and now serves as part of the visitor experience, illustrating the living conditions and operations of the lighthouse in past centuries.
Contact
Phone: 06 40606454
