Light at the edge of the world: The story of the Kura Lighthouse A historical journey on Caliber.Az

Lighthouses have served since ancient times as symbols of salvation and beacons in stormy and dangerous seas. Their flickering light offered hope to sailors lost in the darkness and reminded them of the proximity of the shore. These solitary guardians of the coast embody resilience, faith, and unwavering dedication to their purpose — to show the way. Throughout history, lighthouses have been more than just engineering structures; they have been an integral part of maritime history and culture.

Azerbaijan preserves many beautiful lighthouses, each with its unique history and architectural style. One of the most famous and picturesque is the Kura Lighthouse, long regarded as an important part of the Caspian coastline’s maritime heritage. Its silhouette against the sunset seems to unite the past and the present, reminding us of thousands of lives saved.

The Kura River is one of the largest rivers in the Caucasus. It flows through the territories of Türkiye, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, eventually emptying into the Caspian Sea. Its length is approximately 1,360 kilometres and it receives about ten major tributaries. According to one version, the river’s name is linked to the Persian king Cyrus. Other sources suggest it derives from the word “kür,” which in Turkic languages can mean “abundant (watery),” “strong,” “fast,” “unyielding,” or “proud” — reflecting the river’s ever-changing channels throughout history.

In the 19th century, with the advent of steamships on the Caspian Sea, ship captains and government officials began showing increasing interest in using the Kura River for navigation. This led to exploratory expeditions aimed at studying the fairway and assessing the possibilities for safe shipping. The Kura became an important transport artery, contributing to the development of regional trade and strengthening connections between coastal areas.

In 1887, at the tip of the Kura Spit, a navigational marker 7.5 meters high was installed on the initiative of the Hydrographic Department of the Caspian Flotilla. The first full-fledged lighthouse appeared here only in 1911 — an openwork iron tower 9 meters tall.

In the 1930s, the need arose to build a lighthouse on one of the arms of the Kura River delta. However, due to the outbreak of World War II, the project was postponed, and only in 1966 was a new lighthouse constructed. It is a white round tower, 52 meters high, made of monolithic reinforced concrete and equipped with a modern light-optical apparatus that provides a white flashing light visible up to 15 miles (about 27 kilometres) away.

Today, this lighthouse is not only an important navigational landmark but also a significant architectural feature, harmoniously integrated into the coastal landscape. Its silhouette complements the natural surroundings, giving the area a distinctive character. From the top of the tower, a breathtaking view unfolds: the vast expanses of the Caspian Sea, a rugged shoreline, and rare buildings in the distance. The horizon stretches endlessly, merging with the sky and creating a sense of tranquillity.

When speaking of Azerbaijan’s lighthouses, one cannot fail to mention the recently published book Lighthouses of Azerbaijan. Based on archival materials, this work presents a comprehensive study of the history of the country’s lighthouses — from the oldest to the modern ones. The publication is the result of extensive research, gathering valuable information about their significance and role in maritime navigation. The book was published on the initiative and with the support of the Baku Port.

The story of lighthouses is a story of light that never goes out. They stand as symbols of constancy, reliability, and humanity’s enduring desire to help others. Even in our technological age, lighthouses continue to fulfil their mission. Azerbaijan’s lighthouses, besides their practical function, impress with their beauty and natural harmony within the landscape. Their silhouettes rising against the backdrop of sea and sky are truly captivating. Their light is a symbol of hope, visible from afar and warming hearts.

Based on materials from the book Lighthouses of Azerbaijan

By Vahid Shukurov, exclusively for Caliber.Az