Böyük Zira Lighthouse: The century-old guardian of the Caspian Sea Historical notes on Caliber.Az

Throughout history, lighthouses have symbolised hope and salvation. They were called the Prometheans of the seas, the beacons of the shores, and the faithful guides of sailors. Equipped with navigational instruments, these towers helped ships stay on course and avoid dangerous areas. By recognising the distinct light signals, sailors could distinguish between lighthouses and determine their location. Bright light sources and special devices to amplify the signal made lighthouses visible over great distances.

One of the first and most famous lighthouses mentioned in literature was the Lighthouse of Alexandria, built between 283 and 247 BC on an island near Alexandria, Egypt. This three-tiered lighthouse, standing 120 metres tall, was considered the seventh wonder of the world and remained the tallest structure on the planet until it was destroyed by a powerful earthquake. The oldest operational lighthouse in the world stands in the northern part of the city of A Coruña, Spain. This tower, located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, was built by the Romans in the early 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Trajan. Interestingly, the famous Statue of Liberty in New York also served as a lighthouse from 1886 to 1902. Today, the tallest lighthouse in the world is located on the Red Sea coast in the city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It reaches a height of 133 metres, and its light is visible at an astonishing distance of 28.5 miles (46 km).

Daring engineering has given rise to many remarkable creations, but maritime lighthouses undoubtedly stand as one of the pinnacles of technical genius. Azerbaijan takes pride in this extraordinary marvel of romantic architecture. Since the mid-19th century, the Caspian Sea has been the subject of extensive study due to its significance as a key strategic area of the Caucasus, often referred to as the "Gateway to the East" and an essential trade route.

The history of lighthouses in Azerbaijan is rich with fascinating events and architectural masterpieces. For centuries, they have played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of navigation in the Caspian Sea and have significantly influenced the development of maritime trade routes in the region.

One of the most picturesque and historically significant lighthouses in Azerbaijan is the one located on Böyük Zira Island. Its silhouette, rising above the vast seascape, stands like a guardian of time, guiding ships and carefully preserving the secrets of past eras.

Böyük Zira is an island in the Caspian Sea, off the southern coast of the Absheron Peninsula. It is part of the Baku Archipelago and lies in the southern section of Baku Bay, about 10.5 km from the city's shoreline. The modern name "Böyük Zira" comes from the Azerbaijani word böyük (big) and the Arabic jazira (island). According to legend, in ancient times, the island was part of an isthmus—a strip of land connecting two continents or linking the mainland to a peninsula.

In 1719, the island was named Nargen due to its resemblance to Nargen Island (now Naissaar) in the Gulf of Finland near Tallinn. In later years, it became known as Nargin. In 1865, at the request of Caspian shipowners, the Hydrographic Department decided to construct a lighthouse on the island to facilitate nighttime navigation in Baku Bay and safeguard vessels from hazards southeast of Baku. Construction began on 27 June 1883 under the supervision of the Hydrographic Section of the Caspian Flotilla and was completed on 1 December 1884. Interestingly, the dioptric optical apparatus was purchased in Paris from the company Sautter-Lemonnier.

In early 1885, the Hydrographic Department published the following announcement in Pilot Notes:

"For the information of sailors, the Hydrographic Department announces that a new lighthouse has been illuminated in the Caspian Sea on the western tip of Nargin Island, at the entrance to Baku Bay. The lighthouse emits a steady white light with flashes every 15 seconds. It is elevated 4 feet above sea level and illuminates a 325° arc of the horizon from SO 75° through S, W, and N to NO 70° (from 105° to 70°). The lighthouse has a refracting optical apparatus of the 4th order, with a visible range of 7.7 miles. The tower is constructed from grey hewn stone, unpainted, and adjoins a building for lighthouse keepers. It stands on the western lowland side of the island, not far from the shoreline..."

Initially, the light source used pyronaphtha as fuel, which was replaced by kerosene on 4 February 1904. The lighthouse was maintained by a team of three personnel, who were hired on a freelance basis in Baku.

For decades, the lighthouse faithfully served, guiding ships, helping sailors navigate the waters of the Caspian Sea, and avoiding dangerous shoals. Its light, piercing through dense fog and raging storms, remained a reliable beacon for all who ventured out to sea.

At the beginning of the Great Patriotic War, the lighthouse on the island was demolished to avoid attracting the attention of German reconnaissance aircraft, and anti-aircraft guns were installed on the island. After the victory over Nazi Germany, the issue of restoring navigation aids in the Caspian arose.

In 1958, the lighthouse was rebuilt and today stands as a white, octagonal truncated stone tower equipped with a modern optical system. Its flashing white light ensures visibility up to 18 miles (approximately 33 km).

Despite centuries of storms, winds, and trials, this magnificent lighthouse remains operational, steadfastly fulfilling its vital role in ensuring maritime safety. Its light continues to guide ships, serving as a reminder of the Caspian Sea’s rich seafaring history. For sailors, it remains a trusted beacon; for researchers and history enthusiasts, it stands as a testament to engineering brilliance and an enduring link between past and present.

Today, the Böyük Zira Lighthouse is more than just a navigational aid—it is a living witness to history, connecting generations and preserving the legacy of Azerbaijan’s maritime past.

Vahid Shukurov, exclusively for Caliber.Az