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Lakka Lighthouse: A Beacon of History and Resilience

Perched on the northern tip of Paxos Island, the Lakka Lighthouse has witnessed a remarkable history of both engineering feats and resilience in the face of adversity. Its origins date back to 1825, marking an essential point in the island’s maritime heritage. Initially, the lighthouse’s illumination was powered by an intricate reflector system of 10 parabolic mirrors, which was later replaced by more advanced lighting mechanisms as technology evolved.

The Early Days of Lakka Lighthouse

The lighthouse’s first lantern was lit on June 1, 1831, according to a declaration published in the Gazette of Korfous. For many years, it served as a vital guide to sailors navigating the waters around Paxos. However, in 1913, a dramatic event shook the lighthouse’s history. On March 23 of that year, the lighthouse sank into a deep ravine following a subsidence, causing significant damage. Fortunately, no lives were lost, and a telegram was swiftly sent to notify authorities of the incident.

Following the collapse, plans were put into motion to build a new lighthouse at a nearby location called “Kuera.” This new structure featured an updated lighting system capable of emitting three white flashes every 24 seconds, visible from up to 26 miles away. The construction, initially delayed due to the outbreak of World War I, was finally completed in 1919.

A Symbol of Persistence Through Adversity

The new lighthouse continued to serve mariners for several decades. However, its operation was once again interrupted during the Italian-German occupation in World War II. The lighthouse sustained heavy damage after being bombed but was restored and relit in 1952.

One of the most touching aspects of the lighthouse’s history involves the chapel dedicated to St. Nicholas, built by lighthouse keepers who rescued an icon of the saint during the 1913 collapse. This small chapel remains a significant symbol of the lighthouse’s enduring legacy.

Architectural Features

The Lakka Lighthouse is a beautiful example of early 20th-century architecture. The main building is a stone house with a ground floor layout that includes a hallway, three bedrooms, and a bathroom with a shower. The stone-built tower, square on the outside and circular within, is a unique design element, further emphasizing the craftsmanship of the time. An auxiliary building serves as a kitchen and storage room.

The lighthouse, surrounded by a 2-meter-high stone wall, is accessible via a dirt road that stretches 1 km from the village of Lakka and 10 km from Gaios, the island’s main port.

Conclusion

The Lakka Lighthouse is much more than just a navigational aid; it’s a testament to the rich history of Paxos and the resilience of its people. Having withstood natural disasters, wars, and multiple reconstructions, it continues to stand tall, offering both a physical and symbolic light to those who visit the island.