1 THINGVELLIR
A rift valley which was the location of Iceland's parliament for the first thousand years after settlement
A rift valley which was the location of Iceland's parliament for the first thousand years after settlement
2 This location is iconic in both geology and politics. It is a rare exposed part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
3
4 Construction is underway to expand the visitor facilities
5 Mt Hekla dominates the scene
6
7
8 The visitor center is designed to evoke the idea of a rift valley
9
10 The Öxará ("Axe River") got its name from a Viking artifact found in the area. The white 5-peaked building next to the river is Iceland's "Camp David" used for official meetings.
11 Part of the main rift, with the upper part of the Öxará and Lake Thingvallavatn in the background