Derbentsky Lighthouse

(autotranslated, could have mistakes)

This is the oldest lighthouse in the republic. It was built in 1855. For a century and a half, it has served many ships well. Local old-timers say that there is a huge depression in the sea, not far from Derbent. In inclement weather, ships here are bound to encounter problems. And here the lighthouse comes to the rescue.  Aivakh Panakhov and his wife have been working at the lighthouse for 18 years. A lighthouse maker is not a profession, but a way of life. To become a professional, no special education is required. You must love the sea and heights.    Partial repairs, cracks on the outer part of the trunk and bricks falling out of the masonry. All the years of work, the lighthouse maker’s family has been watching the gradual destruction of the unique structure. A major overhaul is long overdue. Aivaz more than once turned to the Derbent administration for help. So far I have received nothing in response other than promises.

The southernmost lighthouse in Russia has long been included in the register of architectural monuments. For their work, the team has repeatedly received letters of gratitude and certificates for good work from the Ministry of Defense. The importance of the country's southernmost guide today is difficult to overestimate. Whether this fact will become decisive in the distribution of city funds will become known after some time. In the meantime, workers are maintaining the appearance of the lighthouse on their own.   03/04/2009