Ustka Lighthouse

The Ustka Lighthouse, located in the town of Ustka on the Polish Baltic coast, is an important site both architecturally and historically. Built in 1892, it features an octagonal tower standing 19.5 meters tall, making it a prominent part of the maritime landscape. At the top of the lighthouse, there is a cylindrical lens with a diameter of 1000 mm, emitting a white, intermittent light visible up to 18 nautical miles (33.336 km). The lighthouse's rich architectural decoration, with its numerous cornices and varied window designs, adds to its charm. The Ustka Lighthouse also holds cultural and historical significance; originally, in 1871, a mast with an oil lamp was erected in the port area, and the current structure replaced this earlier navigation system. The lighthouse resumed operation shortly after World War II, on November 15, 1945, and in 1947, its historical name "Ustka" was restored. The facility is no longer staffed, with the last lighthouse keeper ending their service in 2010. Today, the Ustka Lighthouse is open to visitors, making it an attractive destination for tourists interested in the region's maritime history and the surrounding natural scenery. It is worth noting that in 1993, the lighthouse was added to the register of immovable monuments of the Pomeranian Voivodeship, further highlighting its cultural importance. Although no longer manned, the lighthouse has retained its historical and architectural value, continuing to draw tourists and history enthusiasts. The structure has survived into the 21st century largely unchanged, serving as a fascinating example of preserved cultural heritage. Thanks to its unique architecture and rich history, the Ustka Lighthouse is not only an important navigational landmark but also a significant element of local culture and tourism.