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Stöng
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ruins
Stöng in the Þjórsárdalur valley is one of the most significant Viking Age archaeological sites in Iceland. The farm was buried under a thick layer of tephra and volcanic ash during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Hekla in 1104, which led to the extraordinary preservation of its structural remains. In 1939, a team of Nordic archaeologists excavated the ruins, revealing the layout of a classic Viking longhouse and several auxiliary buildings. This excavation was groundbreaking for the understanding of medieval Icelandic architecture and domestic life. To protect the fragile ruins from the elements, a modern shelter has been constructed over the foundations. Nearby, a faithful reconstruction of the farm, known as Þjóðveldisbærinn, was built in 1974 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the settlement of Iceland. This reconstruction allows visitors to physically experience the spatial dimensions and building techniques of a prosperous Commonwealth-era homestead. Stöng serves as a compelling example of nature's destructive power and its paradoxical role in preserving history for future generations.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Þjórsárdalslaug · Stöng · Gjáin í Þjórsárdal
- Nearby: Landmannalaugar (38 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 | -2 | 0 | 4 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 2 | -2 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 192 | 175 | 169 | 130 | 96 | 92 | 111 | 119 | 183 | 156 | 162 | 194 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The excavated Viking farm is open-air and can be visited. The preserved foundations and ash layers are visible, but there is no museum building on site.
Typical hours
The site is accessible at any time as it is not a guarded facility. Typically, a visit during daylight is recommended to see details clearly.
Photography
Photography is allowed without restrictions. The ash layer and floor plans offer unique Viking-age subjects.
Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes to explore the excavated farm. Information panels provide good historical insight.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Þjóðveldisbærinn open-air museum, a reconstructed Viking farm. The church of Stöng is also worth a detour.
Getting there
The site is reachable by car via road 32, with parking available. A short walk across meadows leads to the excavation area.
Insider tip
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Bring a rain jacket as the weather in the Þjórsá valley is unpredictable.
Geography
Facts
- The farm was abandoned after the 1104 eruption of Mount Hekla.
- The site was professionally excavated for the first time in 1939.
- The longhouse measured approximately 17 meters in length.
- The replica farm, Þjóðveldisbærinn, was opened to the public in 1974.
- Artifacts found include weaving weights and stone tools.
- A protective shelter was built over the original ruins in 1957.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Stöng (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What happened to Stöng farm in 1104?
The farm was buried under ash during a massive eruption of the Hekla volcano.
Can the ruins be visited today?
Yes, the excavated ruins are protected by a shelter and are open to tourists.
Is there a reconstruction of the farm?
Yes, the nearby museum Þjóðveldisbærinn is a faithful reconstruction of the Stöng farm.
Where exactly is Stöng located?
In the Þjórsárdalur valley in southern Iceland, about a 1.5-hour drive from Reykjavík.
Does visiting the ruins cost anything?
Access to the actual ruins is often free, but a fee is charged for the reconstruction.
Stöng: where is it located?
Stöng is located in Iceland.
Stöng: what is there to see?
Highlights include Þjórsárdalslaug, Stöng, Gjáin í Þjórsárdal.
Stöng: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Stöng: why is it worth visiting?
Stöng in the Þjórsárdalur valley is one of the most significant Viking Age archaeological sites in Iceland.
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