Vestmannaeyjar Center: Stories from Iceland’s Volcanic Island

Volcanic forces and a deep connection to the sea have both shaped the small Icelandic archipelago of Vestmannaeyjar.

On this walking tour of Heimaey Island, you’ll discover how a dramatic 1973 eruption transformed the landscape. You’ll also hear about this resilient community that’s thrived on fishing for over a thousand years.

The tour starts at the Vestmannaeyjar harbor, where you’ll learn about the modern town’s beginnings, and the arrival of motorized fishing boats in 1906. You’ll walk past historic buildings and monuments, including Skansinn fort, built in the 1500s to protect crown property from English merchants and marauders. Along the way, you’ll discover how the 1973 volcanic eruption buried over 400 houses under lava but ended up improving the harbor’s safety.

You’ll explore the town’s oldest neighborhood, the new lava and visit Landakirkja, the historic church that stood defiantly above volcanic ash with its cemetery gate bearing the message “I live and thou shalt live.” The tour ends at the Sea Life Whale Sanctuary, where you’ll learn about conservation efforts for beluga whales and the annual tradition of rescuing puffin chicks.

On this 60-minute tour, you’ll have a chance to:

• Walk on new lava formed during the 1973 eruption that transformed the island but created a safer harbor
• Visit Landlyst, Iceland’s first maternity hospital, built in 1848 to tackle high infant mortality
• Learn about the Turkish raid of 1627 and the infamous story of Guðríður Símonardóttir, known as “Turkish-Gudda”
• Discover the island’s musical heritage, including works by composer Oddgeir Kristjánsson
• Spot the Blátindur memorial wall, a poignant reminder of homes lost beneath the lava
• Walk through streets named after historical events, and past monuments like Blátindur that commemorate the island’s rich maritime heritage

Whether you’re interested in volcanic geology, maritime history, or simply want to experience island life, this walking tour offers a fascinating glimpse into a community shaped by natural forces and human determination.