In Denmark, there is a lighthouse that is over 120 years old, known as the Cape Rubio Lighthouse.
For the past century, this lighthouse has been at risk of collapse due to erosion caused by seawater. To save the lighthouse, the Danish government allocated 5 million Danish kroner on October 22, 2019, with the intention of moving it inland on wheels and rails, relocating it 80 meters away from the coast for re-installation.
The Cape Rubio lighthouse is situated on a 60-meter-high cliff on the northwestern Jutland peninsula and was officially opened in 1900. After 68 years of service, the lighthouse was converted into a museum.
Throughout these 68 years, the lighthouse has guided countless ships navigating through the sea. Today, it attracts 250,000 visitors annually and is considered one of Denmark's national treasures.
When the Cape Rubio lighthouse was originally constructed, it stood 200 meters away from the cliff's edge. However, due to soil erosion and corrosion, the lighthouse was a mere 6 meters from the edge before it was moved.
This precarious position put it in imminent danger of collapsing into the sea, leading to the forced closure of the museum. To prevent the dismantling or collapse of the lighthouse, the environmental department decided to avoid using railway tracks for relocation. Instead, they opted to install wheels at the lighthouse foundation's location.
The relocation process was carried out by a local engineering firm. Initially, the workers measured the lighthouse's foundation and then lifted the structure above the tracks in the dunes.
They proceeded to move it inland at 8 meters per hour. The engineer in charge of the relocation initially estimated the lighthouse to weigh 1,000 tons but later discovered it actually weighed 720 tons. This realization significantly reduced the difficulty of the relocation.
Under the watchful eyes of a large crowd, the 23-meter-tall Cape Rubio lighthouse began its slow journey inland. People followed along, moving in sync with the lighthouse. When the lighthouse reached its final destination, it would be filled with cement to secure it firmly in place.
The relocation of the Cape Rubio lighthouse captured the attention and admiration of people in Denmark and abroad. It was a remarkable feat of engineering and a testament to the commitment to preserving historical landmarks.
The careful planning and execution of the relocation ensured the lighthouse's survival for generations to come. The successful move not only saved the lighthouse from collapsing into the sea but also revived the museum housed within its walls.
Visitors can now once again explore the lighthouse's rich history and marvel at the breathtaking views it offers from its new inland location. The Cape Rubio lighthouse stands as a symbol of resilience, heritage, and the power of human ingenuity.
The Cape Rubio lighthouse in Denmark, over a century old, faced the imminent threat of collapse due to erosion. To preserve this historic structure, the Danish government allocated funds for its relocation inland.
The lighthouse, which had served as a guiding light for ships, now stands as a national treasure and continues to attract numerous visitors each year. The successful relocation effort was carried out by a local engineering firm, ensuring the preservation of this iconic landmark for future generations.
