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Kollicker Ort beacon: A historical landmark of Rügen falls!
The beacon at Kollicker Ort on Rügen was dismantled after 120 years to counteract the risk of erosion.
Kollicker Ort beacon: A historical landmark of Rügen falls!
The Kollicker town on Rügen, a striking piece of maritime history, has recently become just a memory. After over 120 years, the beacon was finally dismantled on September 10, 2025. Like that NDR reported, the dismantling occurred due to an acute risk of falling caused by erosion. Dismantling the tower, which was built in 1904 and weighed a total of seven tons, was a logistical challenge that could only be overcome with a helicopter.
The lighthouse, which was put into operation in 1905, served as a cross-marking light for the port of Sassnitz and as an orientation light for the Prorer Wiek. The final technical work had already taken place at the end of July 2025, when the beacon was taken out of operation. Sailors were asked to remove the tower from their charts, while three cardinal buoys were placed offshore as a replacement.
A look at history
The lighthouse at Kollicker Ort was built by the renowned Julius Pintsch company and consisted of 24 cast iron elements, which not only made it stable, but also an eye-catching structure. With a height of six meters and a conical copper roof that bore a compass rose, the tower was not only a useful navigation mark, but also a part of maritime architecture. The beacon was originally equipped with a parabolic mirror and a gas lamp before being converted to electric operation in 1936 Wikipedia recorded.
The maintenance of the lighthouse has been the responsibility of the Baltic Sea Waterways and Shipping Office since 2020. Despite extensive renovations over the years - including a switch to halogen lighting in 1978 and belt lens operation in 2000 - the charm and functionality of the lighthouse for shipping was unmistakable.
The importance of lighthouses
Lighthouses like the one in Kollicker Ort represent much more than just historical buildings. They are indispensable aids for sailors navigating at sea day and night and contribute to safety. These maritime symbols, often surrounded by impressive nature, are visible over long distances and make a significant contribution to reducing shipwrecks. German beacons shows that they are mostly derived from open fires and torches that were once used for orientation.
Shipping has changed significantly over the years and with it technology. From the first lighthouses on the German Baltic Sea coast to modern navigation techniques - the development is influential and impressive. Around a third of Germany's lighthouses are listed buildings, testifying to Germany's rich maritime heritage.
The final dismantling of the Kollicker Ort lighthouse marks the end of a chapter that has long been significant for many Rüganers and seafarers. It remains to be seen how the maritime landscape around Rügen will develop - one thing is certain: this lighthouse story will live on in memory.