At the north-western tip of the Fischland-Darß-Zingst peninsula in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania stands the Darßer Ort lighthouse, which is well worth seeing – one of the oldest sea lights on the German Baltic coast. Built between 1847 and 1848, the round brick structure was put into operation in early 1849 to warn passing ships of the dangerous shoals of the Darß Sill in the Baltic Sea. The lighthouse is 35.4 metres high and a popular destination for excursions. Between 1962 and 1995, the tower was closed to visitors. Since then, however, tourists can once again reach the viewing platform via the 134 steps. The Darßer Ort lighthouse is also a frequent motif on postage stamps.
