Thingvellir
Location
About
A rift valley in southwest Iceland where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are visibly pulling apart, Thingvellir (Þingvellir, 'Parliament Plains') was the site of the Althing — the world's oldest parliament, established 930 CE. The annual assembly of Icelandic chieftains was held here until 1798, deciding laws, resolving disputes, and conducting major public events including Iceland's adoption of Christianity in 1000 CE.
Significance
Thingvellir is one of the founding sites of Western democratic tradition — the Althing established in 930 CE is the world's oldest parliament still in operation (now meeting in Reykjavik). The dramatic geology — where you can literally stand between two tectonic plates — adds a cosmic dimension to the site's political sacred significance. Iceland's adoption of Christianity in 1000 CE by vote of the Althing at Thingvellir is the defining moment of Scandinavian Christianization.
History & Historical Arc
Ingolf Arnarson, Iceland's first permanent Norse settler, arrived around 874 CE. The Althing was established in 930 CE a…
Archaeological Notes
Archaeological surveys have identified the remains of booths (temporary structures used during Althing) along the banks …
Key Features & Structures
- Lögberg (Law Rock, lawspeaker's podium)
- Öxará River (execution pool)
Visitor Information
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Open year-round. Part of the Golden Circle tourist route. Free entry to park. Visitor center…
Related Figures
In the Bible
Source References
- Ari Thorgilsson, Íslendingabók (c.1120 CE)
- Njal's Saga (13th century)