Thingvellir National Park Guide
Þingvellir National Park: Where History and Geology Converge Guide
Þingvellir National Park (often anglicized as Thingvellir) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Iceland. It's a place of immense historical, cultural, and geological significance. The park lies in a rift valley caused by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it a unique and dramatic landscape. Visitors can walk between the continents and witness the visible effects of plate tectonics. Þingvellir holds a special place in Icelandic history as the site of the Alþingi, the world's oldest parliament. Established in 930 AD, the Alþingi met annually at Þingvellir for centuries, making laws and settling disputes. This open-air assembly played a crucial role in shaping Icelandic society and culture. The park also witnessed significant events in Icelandic history, including the country's declaration of independence in 1944. At Þingvellir, visitors can explore the Almannagjá gorge, a dramatic canyon marking the edge of the North American tectonic plate. You can walk along the trails, visit the Law Rock (Lögberg), where laws were recited, and explore the remains of the old assembly booths. Silfra fissure, located within the park, is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving due to its crystal-clear glacial water. While Þingvellir doesn't have a specific culinary tradition tied directly to the park, the nearby Efstidalur II farm offers fresh dairy products and ice cream made on-site, providing a delicious taste of Icelandic farm life.
Transportation
Þingvellir National Park is easily accessible by car, located about 45 minutes northeast of Reykjavik. Many tour operators offer Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik that include a stop at Þingvellir. Public buses also travel to Þingvellir, check Straeto.is for schedules.