A historic manor in South Iceland

Keldur in Rangárvellir is a major historical site in South Iceland. It is the only large turf farm preserved in the region. It was once the manor of the Oddi chieftains. Jón Loftsson, their leader, spent his final years here. The old farm and its surroundings show settlement, power and daily life from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Keldur features a traditional turf farm with most of it dating from the 19th century.  Many outbuildings remain, including storehouses, a smithy, a mill hut, a cowshed, a stable and a sheepfold. Together they make Keldur a rare example of Icelandic building heritage.

Medieval escape tunnel

A unique feature of Keldur is the underground passage leading from the main hall to the stream. It likely dates from the 12th or 13th century. It was probably used as an escape route during conflict. The tunnel is one of the most remarkable structures of its kind in Iceland. It offers insight into medieval defence and daily life.

The church and historical sources

Keldur also has a church built in 1875 by Guðmundur Brynjólfsson, the district commissioner. The name Keldur comes from natural springs found throughout the home field. These springs give the site a distinctive character. The inhabitants of Keldur appear in several major Icelandic medieval texts. These include Njáls saga, Sturlunga and The Saga of Saint Þorlákur.

Keldur today – preservation and visits

The old farm at Keldur is managed by the National Museum of Iceland. It is open from 1 June to 31 August, every day from 10–17. Visitors can explore the farm buildings, outbuildings, church and underground passage. The site offers a vivid picture of rural Icelandic life in past centuries.

Keldur’s location in Rangárvellir makes it an excellent stop for travellers. It suits visitors who enjoy history, turf architecture and nature in South Iceland. A visit to Keldur links easily with other attractions in the area. These include waterfalls, museums, hiking trails and volcano exhibitions.

Ten ideas for activities in South Iceland:

1. Guided tour of the man-made caves at Hella, which may be older than Iceland’s settlement.
2. Visit the volcano and earthquake exhibitions at LAVA Centre.
3. Explore Skógar Museum, one of Iceland’s most visited museums.
4. Visit the new town centre in Selfoss and Skyrland.
5. See Oddi in Rangárvellir, with its church, memorial and excavation.
6. “Collect” waterfalls in South Iceland: Gullfoss, Hjálparfoss, Háifoss, Gljúfrabúi and Seljalandsfoss.
7. Hike the Fimmvörðuháls trail from Skógar to Þórsmörk.
8. Join a glacier walk on Sólheimajökull or a snowmobile tour on Mýrdalsjökull.
9. Bathe in Seljavallalaug or the natural hot spring in Landmannalaugar.
10. Walk the trail beside Skógafoss and continue along the Skóga River.

More ideas and information about activities, accommodation and services can be found at www.south.is.