Russarö Lighthouse

Russarö Lighthouse (Finnish: Russarön majakka, Swedish: Russarö fyr) is a lighthouse situated on the island of Russarö, outside Hanko, Finland, at the western extremity of the Gulf of Finland in the Baltic Sea.[1][2] It is commonly known as Hangon silmä (lit. 'The Eye of Hanko').[3]

Russarö Lighthouse
Russarö

Russarö lighthouse in 2013
Location	Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea
Coordinates	59.773333°N 22.943333°E / 59.773333; 22.943333
Tower
Constructed	1863
Foundation	Granite
Construction	Brick
Automated	1949
Height	21 m (69 ft)
Shape	Octagonal
Markings	Red
Power source	electricity
Light
First lit	1863
Focal height	34.2 m (112 ft)
Range	16.9 nmi (31.3 km; 19.4 mi)
Characteristic	Fl(4) W 45s

The lighthouse of Russarö illustrated in Finland framstäldt i teckningar (published 1845-1852) where Russarö is called Rotsaari kala.

Earlier unilluminated daymarks and lighthouses existed on the spot, dating back to 1815.[2] The current lighthouse was built in 1863, making it one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in Finland.[3] It was the first in Finland to operate also during winter months, due to the Port of Hanko being in the 19th century the only port open throughout the year.[1]

Constructed of bricks and mortar over a granite base, the lighthouse is octagonal in shape and comprises five storeys.[3] The top floor features a beautiful vaulted ceiling.[1] The base is natural stone colour (brown), the main tower red.[2]

In the summer months, day cruises to the island of Russarö are operated from Hanko's Eastern Harbour.[3] However, due to the dilapidated state of the lighthouse, visitors are no longer allowed entry into the tower.[1]