It is one of the oldest operational lighthouses on the Turkish Black Sea coast, commissioned under Sultan Abdülaziz.
The lighthouse tower is painted with distinctive horizontal white and black stripes to increase visibility for mariners during daylight hours.
It is located within the northernmost region of the Turkish Black Sea coastline, near the border with Bulgaria.
The light characteristic is Fl(2) W 10s, meaning it emits two white flashes every ten seconds.
The structure functions automatically via the General Directorate of Coastal Safety's remote monitoring system.
The original Fresnel lens technology has been modernized, though the historical tower remains largely intact.
Limanköy Lighthouse, also known as İğneada Lighthouse, is situated on the Black Sea coast of the Kırklareli province in northwest Turkey. Built in 1866 during the Ottoman Empire, the structure serves as a critical maritime beacon near the Bulgarian border. It stands at an elevation of 45 meters above sea level and features a 12-meter-high masonry tower. The lighthouse is currently operated by the General Directorate of Coastal Safety. The surrounding area is characterized by the dense forests of the Yıldız Mountains and proximity to the İğneada Floodplain Forests National Park.
The elevated grassy ridge south of the lighthouse compound provides the best vantage point for capturing the tower against the Black Sea backdrop.
Bring sturdy footwear, as the surrounding terrain is uneven and can be muddy near the coastal cliffs.
Carry binoculars to spot migratory birds, as the lighthouse is situated on a major avian migration corridor.
Check local weather forecasts, as the Black Sea coast here is prone to sudden fog and heavy winds.
Do not attempt to climb the tower, as it is a restricted facility operated by the government.
The site is an active restricted navigation facility; the tower interior is closed to the public year-round.
