Lighthouse visit

The Marjaniemi lighthouse stretches majestically towards the sky. Its pale brick walls reflect the bright sunlight. When I touch the building, I can feel its strong foundation. Historical tales whisper in my ears.

This lighthouse has been seen as a symbol of Hailuoto since the late 1800s. It was designed by Finland’s leading architect Axel Hampus Dahlström and was completed and put into operation in 1872. Since then, it has been an invaluable aid to maritime navigation.

Local guides Ritva Rundgren and Vuokko Heikkinen-Pereira tell me about the lighthouse’s past. There is no shortage of stories, as its history is fascinating.

“You can immediately tell by the appearance of the lighthouse where Dahlström drew his inspiration from,” Vuokko points out. “Italian architecture has had a great influence.”

The lighthouse even has what’s known as an “Italian window,” which was used to send signals to the sea through colors. The fact that the colors match the Italian flag is just a happy coincidence. The true Italian ambiance comes from the architecture.

"The port of Oulu is used worldwide, so the Marjaniemi lighthouse has saved many ships from losing their way," Vuokko says. "However, it hasn’t saved them all."

The history of shipwrecks near Hailuoto is long. There are plenty of stories to tell. If you want to hear these romantic and tragic tales from experts, book a guided tour of the lighthouse. You’ll get to visit the top, hear about Gustaf Dalén’s Nobel Prize in sympathy, and learn about the automation of the lighthouse.

Learn more about the Marjaniemi lighthouse:

www.itameri.fi

Lighthouse opening hours:

Closed for the season, only available by reservation.

Opening hours are weather-dependent. Open earlier or later by request. Tours are available by reservation outside normal hours. Changes possible, all rights reserved.

Maximum 5 people at a time, duration approx. 15 minutes. Visits at your own risk. Children must be accompanied by adults. Not suitable for people with fear of heights or claustrophobia. Requires moderate physical condition.

More information:

Instagram: @marjaniemenmajakka

Hailuoto app

Opening hours are weather-dependent. Open earlier or later if necessary. Other times by reservation. Changes possible, all rights reserved.

Maximum 5 people at a time, duration approx. 15 min. Visits at your own risk.

Children must be accompanied by adults.Not suitable for people with fear of heights or claustrophobia, moderate fitness required.

Admission fees:

€10 for adults

€5 for children (primary school age)

€25 for families (2 adults + 3 children)

Special pricing for groups and reservations.

Small groups outside normal opening hours (1-5 people, couples, and families):

€20 reservation fee + admission fees, minimum charge €50.

Service provided by Hailuoto Local Guides Association

Inquiries and reservations: hailuodonpaikallisoppaat@gmail.com / +35840 556 2572

Hailuoto Local Guides