The Secret Life of Lighthouse Wardens: Stories of People Living at Heights

Interview with Svetlana, lighthouse keeper on Novaya Zemlya Island
“It is one of the most secluded and mysterious professions in the world. You live in complete harmony with nature, but you feel disconnected from the world.
Svetlana has been working as a lighthouse keeper in the Arctic for 15 years. She says that daily work involves bypassing lighthouses, monitoring diesel generators, keeping a log of observations and, of course, communicating with wild polar bears peeking at the light.
“Silence and solitude are part of our lives. We may not see a single person for several weeks, except for the shifters. But there are amazing landscapes that cannot be seen in ordinary life. ?




Interview with Victor, lighthouse keeper in the Far East
“Our work is a whole philosophy. You become part of the sea element, part of the lighthouse that leads ships to a safe dock. ?
Victor says that in addition to the mandatory bypasses and maintenance of the lighthouse, the rangers are also engaged in meteorological observations and archiving.
“We must be prepared for everything from a storm to an orca attack. The most important thing is not to lose touch with the outside world. Therefore, we send daily reports, communicate with dispatchers and look forward to the shift to talk about their adventures. ?


Harsh weekdays of lighthouse keepers
Despite the outward romanticism, the work of lighthouse keepers is associated with many tests. They are forced to live in complete isolation, resist the vagaries of weather and wildlife, and perform heavy physical work.
In addition, technological progress is gradually displacing this ancient profession. More and more lighthouses are being automated, and the role of caretakers is reduced to periodic maintenance.

Interview with Natalia, former lighthouse keeper
“The modern world is advancing too fast, leaving behind professions like ours. But I hope the romance of lighthouses never disappears altogether.
Natalia worked as a caretaker for more than 20 years until her lighthouse was fully automated. She admits that she misses daily rounds, storm watching and talking to the crew.
“When you live on a lighthouse, you feel part of something more than just work. This is a special way of life that is difficult to explain to those who have never been in our place.


The future of the lighthouse caretaker profession
Despite the inexorable development of technology, the profession of lighthouse keeper still retains its value. Many countries continue to build new lighthouses and maintain a staff of qualified caretakers.
Moreover, in the age of automation, the human factor is becoming increasingly important. Lighthouse keepers provide the necessary control and maintenance, and also play the role of “guardians” of maritime traditions.
Therefore, it is safe to say that the profession of lighthouse keeper, although in a slightly changed form, will continue in the future. It will continue to attract romantics, privacy lovers and those who want to become part of centuries-old maritime traditions.