Ulkokalla Lighthouse: A Beacon of Maritime History

Ulkokalla Lighthouse, located on the small island of Ulkokalla, approximately 20 kilometers from the coast of Kalajoki, is more than just a navigational aid; it's a testament to the region's rich maritime history. The island itself is small, only about 400 meters long and 200 meters wide, making the lighthouse a prominent feature of the landscape. Constructed in 1871 and lit in 1872, the lighthouse was designed by Axel Hampus Dahlström, a renowned architect of Finnish lighthouses. The 13.7-meter brick tower, though the smallest of Dahlström's lighthouses, has played a vital role in guiding ships through the rocky waters of the Bothnian Bay for over a century. Originally, there were plans to build the lighthouse on Maakalla, but insurance companies and shipmasters wanted it built further out, closer to the ship routes. For many years, the island was home to fishing families, and in 1856, they were granted permission to light signal fires to help fishermen navigate home. The lighthouse keepers lived on the island until 1974 when the lighthouse was automated. The lighthouse has been modernized over the years, with the addition of fog sirens, steel masts, and solar panels. The lighting equipment was updated in 1961 when the lighthouse was electrified and again in 1986 when a dioptric plastic lens and LED light were installed. Today, Ulkokalla is uninhabited, but some of the buildings have been refurbished for tourist use. Visitors can explore the island, admire the lighthouse, and imagine the lives of those who once lived and worked there. The lighthouse offers informative displays detailing its construction and role in maritime activities. The surrounding landscape is rich with flora and fauna, offering visitors a chance to experience the diverse ecosystems that thrive along the coastline.