Akraberg – Trap The Faroe Islands

© Styrelsen for Dataforsyning og Infrastruktur

Akraberg is the southernmost part of the Faroe Islands. A lighthouse and housing for the lighthouse staff were built here in 1909. Today, the lighthouse in Akraberg, like all others on the Faroe Islands, is remotely operated. The staff housing has been sold to private owners. ÓLAVUR FREDERIKSEN, 2016

Akraberg is the southernmost part of the Faroe Islands. This exposed place with a lot of surf is presumed to have been inhabited by Frisians from around 1040 until the plague wiped them out. There are many legends about the Frisians in Akraberg, who were pagan long after the Faroe Islands had become Christian. On the east-facing, steep slope by the lighthouse, there is an area with low parallel ridges which may once have been part of the Frisian settlement.

In 1909, the Vitin á Akrabergi lighthouse under the State Lighthouse and Buoy Service was inaugurated, and modern homes were built for the lighthouse keeper and his assistants and family. In 1988, the last lighthouse keeper family moved out, and the homes were sold and are now used as holiday homes.

A weather station and a mediumwave transmitter with associated buildings are located in the village. Traces are also seen of the British occupation during World War II. Today, Akraberg is a popular excursion spot for tourists. In clear weather, it is possible to see the southernmost skerries, Flesjarnar and Sumbiarhólmur, located about 6 km south of Akraberg.

Further reading