Fresh Coat of Paint for the Otto Lighthouse in East Frisia - Pilsum Lighthouse shines again with a fresh coat of iconic stripes
The Pilsum Lighthouse in East Frisia has just received a fresh coat of paint, restoring its iconic red and yellow stripes. Known for its striking appearance and cultural significance, the 134-year-old structure has long been a local landmark—and a frequent target for vandals.
Built in 1890 near Greetsiel, the lighthouse originally guided ships with a white light visible up to 15 nautical miles. It ran manually until 1927, when it was electrified, and remained in service until 1980. After automation and changes to the harbour made it obsolete, the tower faced possible demolition due to its deteriorating condition. A major renovation in 1999, funded partly by a plumbing supplier's donation, saved it from being torn down.
Since then, the lighthouse has become a protected monument and a tourist draw. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views, and it features on the Leuchttürme an Nord- und Ostsee coastal route. Its bold red and yellow stripes—introduced in the 1980s to signal its non-navigational status—also gained fame through Otto Waalkes' 1989 film Otto – The Outsider from East Frisia, where it served as the comedian's on-screen home.
The latest repainting, costing around €7,000, was carried out by workers from the Deichacht Krummhörn, the local diking authority. Most of the expense went toward scaffolding. While the steel structure is fully repainted every six years, the lower sections need more frequent attention due to repeated graffiti and sticker vandalism. The bottom two rings now require repainting almost annually.
The lighthouse funds its own upkeep through a dedicated bank account. Revenue comes from wedding ceremonies—it's a popular venue, especially for couples from North Rhine-Westphalia—and licensing fees for tourism-related activities.
The repainting ensures the Pilsum Lighthouse remains a vibrant part of East Frisia's landscape. With its self-sustaining funding model and ongoing maintenance, the tower will continue to attract visitors and host events for years to come. The next full repainting of the steel structure is scheduled for 2026.
