New lighthouse completed at Gjögurviti in Iceland after predecessor collapse

A new lighthouse, Gjögurviti, has been completed and is now guiding sailors along the coast following the collapse of its predecessor, which stood for over a century. The old lighthouse, built in 1921, fell during a severe storm on December 15 of last year, leaving uncertainty about whether a replacement would be constructed.

On November 11, 2024, electricians and technicians from the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration installed lighting equipment on the new lighthouse’s mast. The lighthouse, standing at 24 meters tall, features a tripod mast equipped with a service ladder, LED beacon, and radar reflector. The old lighthouse keeper’s house has been painted red to maintain a nostalgic charm.

This project marks a significant step in ensuring navigational safety in the Árneshreppur region, an area known for its challenging weather conditions and maritime activity. The new Gjögurviti is expected to play a crucial role in aiding vessels navigating the surrounding waters.

Despite the completion of the new lighthouse, the question remains whether further installations will be added in the future to enhance the region’s navigational infrastructure.