þingvellir

We have been studying Icelandic history in class, but today we had the chance to visit a site that has been deeply influential to the development of this country, þingvellir. This is the original site of the parliment meetings dating back before 1000 BC, and as we soon found out, this physical location ended up being much more than just a political arena.

Today, the area has been made into a national park, and recently was added to the list of world heritage sites. After a quick presentation from a park ranger, we stepped outside of the visitor center to explore. Our guide led us along a wooden boardwalk, describing the influence of this particular landscape to us. We took in the diverse geological spectrum of volcanic rifts, basalt columns, waterfalls, and the beautiful lakes. He took us to the spot where an Icelandic flag now stands in remembrance of this great, historical meeting spot. Alþingi was Iceland's traditional parliament, established in 930AD. Historically, being the world's oldest parliament, it has guided Iceland through hardship and success. We heard how this location was central to meetings where representivies from all corners of the country would gather and discuss and set the laws of the times. Sometimes that meant an individual would ride across the highlands for two weeks in order to participate...such dedication!

We walked through a short canyon, ending at a historic "drowning pool", the ranger told us. Many deaths were recorded of women being drowned there for having a child out of wedlock. On a happier note, we moved towards the streams to see if any brown trout were visible. Although they weren't, we enjoyed the beauty of the ice and the water's flow. Until recently, þingvellir has been Iceland's grounds for social gatherings and building community. Although, necessary for the nation's progress, revoking Alþingi has caused much controversy. The national park has preserved this cultural tradition to enrich the knowledge of visitors.

From þingvellir national park, we headed towards Skálholt. Skálholt is also a major political and cultural site historically. Skálholt´s priest told us about the background of the "Church of Iceland". He told tales of the trials and tribulations of the catholic bishops and two main reformations. Just when Iceland thought Christianity was going to blossom, Lutheranism began to uproot the Catholic foundations. Finally, Christianity settled in the middle ages. Under the foundation of the church, the Priest pointed out a tomb of one of Iceland's late, great bishops and leader before leading us through one of the remaining original undergound tunnels still on the property.

What a treat to have these historicaly siginificant destinations close enough so that in one day we can see with our own eyes the landscapes and buildings that contributed so much to the formation of the country we know today.

~Ryan and Caleigh
(Photos by Meg)