Viking wax museum🏛 museum
Museum in Herjólfsdalur, displays Viking figures made of wax.
🌐 herjolfstown.is🕒 may 1 - oct 1: 11:00-17:00
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Herjólfsdalur
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ruins
Herjólfsdalur is an easy on the eye valley on Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands, and is regarded as the birthplace of the local settlement. It is named after Herjólfur Bárðarson, who is believed to have been the first permanent settler on the islands around 900 AD. Archaeological excavations conducted between 1971 and 1981 brought spectacular finds to light, including the remains of Viking-age longhouses. These discoveries refuted earlier theories and proved that the islands were inhabited much earlier than previously assumed. Today, the valley is not only a historical monument but also the setting for Þjóðhátíð, Iceland's largest national festival, which has been celebrated annually in August since 1874. The dramatic backdrop of steep cliffs and green slopes gives the site a unique atmosphere. Herjólfsdalur symbolizes the resilience of the islanders against the forces of nature, particularly in light of the 1973 volcanic eruption. Visitors can view a reconstruction of a Viking house and immerse themselves in the maritime history and traditions of the Westman Islands.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Viking wax museum · Sprangan · Stafsnes
- Nearby: Hella (44 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 152 | 137 | 137 | 97 | 68 | 63 | 77 | 89 | 144 | 125 | 128 | 156 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The ruins of Herjólfsdalur are freely accessible and can be viewed outdoors. They are located in a valley on Heimaey and can be visited anytime.
Typical hours
As an outdoor archaeological site, there are no set visiting hours. Check locally about possible protective fences or maintenance work.
Photography
The foundation walls of the old settlement photograph well from a bird's-eye view or close up. Early morning light falls nicely on the stones.
Time needed
Visiting the ruins takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Combined with Eldfell and the museum on Heimaey, a half-day trip is worthwhile.
Combine with
Herjólfsdalur is on Heimaey, so combine it with the Eldfell crater and Heimaey town center. The harbor is also worth seeing.
Getting there
The ruins are a 15-minute walk from the Heimaey harbor. Follow the coastal road towards the valley.
Insider tip
Bring binoculars to watch the birds on the nearby cliffs. The spot is windy - a windproof jacket is advisable.
Geography
Facts
- Herjólfur Bárðarson settled here as the first permanent resident around 900 AD.
- Archaeological excavations (1971–1981) uncovered several Viking longhouses.
- The valley has hosted the national Þjóðhátíð festival annually since 1874.
- A full-scale reconstruction of a Viking-era dwelling is available for touring.
- The surrounding cliffs serve as a major nesting site for Atlantic puffins.
- Much of the valley was spared from lava damage during the 1973 eruption.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Herjólfsdalur (10)
Sæheimar Aquarium
Aquarium in Herjólfsdalur, shows local marine life.
Landakirkja
Church building in Iceland, located in Herjólfsdalur.
Byggðasafn🏛 museum
Museum in Herjólfsdalur, documents settlement history.
Skansinn🏛 museum
Museum in Herjólfsdalur, a historic fortification.
The Stave Church
Architectural structure in Herjólfsdalur, a wooden church.
Home Rock
Cliff in Iceland, in Herjólfsdalur.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who was Herjólfur Bárðarson?
He is considered the first settler on the Westman Islands and lived in this valley.
What can you visit in the valley?
There are excavations of Viking houses and a reconstruction of a longhouse.
Is there an annual event held there?
Yes, the famous 'Þjóðhátíð' festival is held in this valley every August.
How do you get to Herjólfsdalur?
It is located on Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands, not far from the harbor.
Are there hiking trails there?
Yes, trails lead to the surrounding hills with magnificent views of the islands.
Herjólfsdalur: where is it located?
Herjólfsdalur is located in Iceland.
Herjólfsdalur: what is there to see?
Highlights include Viking wax museum, Sprangan, Stafsnes.
Herjólfsdalur: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Herjólfsdalur: why is it worth visiting?
Herjólfsdalur is an easy on the eye valley on Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands, and is regarded as the birthplace of the local settlement.
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