Keri (island)

Keri is a small, uninhabited island in the Gulf of Riga, part of Latvia. It is located approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) off the coast of the Kurzeme Peninsula. The island is characterized by its sparsely vegetated, sandy terrain and its primary landmark: a prominent lighthouse.

The Keri lighthouse is a crucial navigational aid in the Gulf of Riga, guiding ships through the often-shallow and treacherous waters. The current lighthouse is not the original structure, but a more modern iteration built in the 20th century. It is remotely operated.

Historically, Keri played a role in maritime safety and communication. Although uninhabited today, the island has seen periods of human activity related to the operation and maintenance of the lighthouse and other navigational infrastructure.

Keri island is of ecological interest despite its small size, providing habitat for various bird species. The surrounding waters are also significant for fisheries. Access to the island is typically restricted due to its remote location and the need to protect the fragile ecosystem and the operational status of the lighthouse.