Leuchtturm Kampen

Gazing up at the towering Leuchtturm Kampen, have you ever wondered about the stories whispered within its weathered bricks? This iconic landmark, also known as Langer Christian, stands proudly on Sylt’s highest point, the Red Cliff, south of Kampen village. King Frederik VII of Denmark commissioned the lighthouse in 1853. It first illuminated the treacherous waters on March 1, 1856. The Leuchtturm Kampen was a beacon of innovation. Its petroleum-powered light was a marvel of engineering, showcased at the 1855 Paris World’s Fair. Originally built with yellow Bornholmer bricks, iron rings were added in 1875 for reinforcement. These rings, like a corset, provide extra strength against the relentless North Sea winds. For decades, the Leuchtturm Kampen remained the color of its weathered bricks, a yellowish-gray sentinel against the sky. It wasn’t until 1953 that it received its striking black and white bands, a distinctive daymark for sailors. In its early days, the Leuchtturm Kampen welcomed visitors. Guestbooks from the 1870s and 1880s reveal its popularity as a viewing point. Imagine ascending the spiral staircase, taking in the panoramic views of the island. Unfortunately, public access is no longer permitted. A major renovation in 1929 saw the lamp house rebuilt and the light converted to electricity. Since 1977, the Leuchtturm Kampen has been remotely controlled, its light awakening an hour before sunset and extinguishing an hour after sunrise. During World War II, the lighthouse faced a grave threat. The Wehrmacht planned to level the surrounding Braderuper Heath to expand an airfield. The Leuchtturm Kampen was slated for demolition. Luckily, the German occupation of Denmark and Norway lessened Sylt’s strategic importance, sparing the lighthouse. Another extensive restoration took place in 2004-2005. To celebrate the lighthouse’s 150th anniversary, a grand “Turmfest” was held in 2006. Lucky attendees won a chance to climb the freshly renovated tower. The Leuchtturm Kampen is more than just a navigational aid. It’s a beloved subject for artists, its stark black and white form captured in countless paintings. Its image even graced a 1921 emergency banknote from Kampen. As you stand here, appreciating its steadfast presence, remember the stories it holds. The Leuchtturm Kampen, a witness to changing times, continues to guide and inspire.