Klaipėda plans replica of historic White Lighthouse; maritime enthusiasts demand full reconstruction
The Lithuanian port city of Klaipėda plans a symbolic replica of its historic White Lighthouse at the end of the northern pier. Lighthouse researchers criticise the idea and want the original rebuilt, while port officials cite security and development risks.
Klaipėda, Lithuania's main port city, plans to build a symbolic replica of its historic White Lighthouse at the end of the northern pier. The idea has drawn criticism from lighthouse enthusiasts, who argue that the country's most recognisable maritime landmark should be fully reconstructed rather than replaced with a decorative imitation.
What is proposed
The new structure would have no navigational function. It would serve as a landmark and tourist attraction, with a tower built to the original dimensions and an installation recreating the beam of light. It would be open to visitors.
The original lighthouse was first lit in 1884 and was blown up in 1945, as German forces retreated at the end of World War Two. The archives of the Klaipėda Ieva Simonaitytė Public Library hold many postcards and photographs of it. Jurga Bardauskienė, a department head at the library, said the lighthouse was very popular and appeared on money as well.
Klaipėda Mayor Arvydas Vaitkus said the municipality wants to move ahead as quickly as possible. He stressed that the structure would not be listed as a navigational aid and could be moved aside if infrastructure work required it.
Objections
Lighthouse researcher Aidas Jurkštas called the proposal an insult to the historic landmark. He said the site is already designated a heritage location and that the authentic 9-metre White Lighthouse must be rebuilt.
The Klaipėda port authority also has concerns. Director General Algis Latakas said the structure must not hinder future port development and that it should be agreed how and where it could be relocated. He warned that the northern pier was reconstructed with European Union funding, so some of the support might have to be repaid. He also pointed to security, describing the port's breakwaters and entrance as among its most sensitive facilities in terms of potential sabotage, and said it must be considered whether, and how many, people should be allowed there.
Public access to an existing lighthouse inside the port's restricted territory is currently barred for security reasons, and photographing and filming it is prohibited. Jurkštas said a German visitor was made by security guards to delete his photographs; the visitor authorised him to take legal action, and the matter is now in court.
Whether, when and in what form the historic White Lighthouse will be rebuilt remains open.
