A Historic Heart of the Icelandic Nation

Thingvellir National Park is one of Iceland’s most important historical sites. Here, the story of the nation and the land comes together in a unique way. The Alþingi, Iceland’s national assembly, was founded at Thingvellir in the year 930 and met here for nearly nine centuries. Many key events in Icelandic history took place on this site, giving Thingvellir a special place in the national identity.

The Ancient Assembly Site

Along the banks of the Öxará River, visitors can still see traces of the ancient assembly grounds. Representatives from across Iceland gathered here to make laws, settle disputes and discuss national matters. Today, Thingvellir is a protected national shrine. It is legally preserved as the property of the Icelandic people and under the guardianship of the Alþingi.

A Geological Wonder

Thingvellir is also a remarkable natural area. The site lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian plates drift apart. This movement has created dramatic fissures and rifts that shape the landscape. Thingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest lake, is part of this environment and supports a diverse ecosystem that has developed in isolation.

Interpretation and Visitor Experience at Hakið

The visitor centre at Hakið is an ideal starting point for exploring the national park. Multimedia displays introduce guests to the history, geology and nature of the area. From Hakið, walking paths lead down to the historic assembly site, allowing visitors to experience the landscape where Iceland’s early history unfolded.

Thingvellir Visitor Centre

The Thingvellir Visitor Centre stands at Hakið above Almannagjá and serves as the gateway to the national park. Visitors can learn about the area’s history and nature, receive guidance from park rangers and enjoy services such as an information desk, café and gift shop. The building also includes restrooms and a large viewing platform with wide views over Thingvellir and its surroundings.

The Exhibition “Heart of the Land and Nation”

The visitor centre houses the multimedia exhibition Heart of the Land and Nation. The exhibition has received awards for its design and user experience. It presents the main themes of Thingvellir’s history and nature through interactive stations. Guests can explore the story of the Alþingi, the geology of the rift valley and the ecosystem of Thingvallavatn. Around ten installations invite visitors to engage through sight, sound and touch.

The Photo Exhibition “Thingvellir 1944”

The photo exhibition Thingvellir 1944 was created in collaboration with the National Museum of Iceland. It features unique images from the founding of the Icelandic Republic at Thingvellir. The exhibition opened in the summer of 2024 to mark the 80th anniversary of the republic and captures the atmosphere and events of this historic moment.

Thingvellir Church

Thingvellir Church stands at the heart of the national park and is one of Iceland’s oldest church sites. The current church was built in 1859, and the tower was added in 1907 to mark the visit of the Danish king. The church is open during the summer and serves both visitors and locals. Regular services are held by the parish priest, and ceremonies can be booked through the park authorities.

Service Centre at Leirar

The Thingvellir Service Centre at Leirar provides essential information about campsites, fishing areas and services within the national park. Guests can pay for camping, fishing permits and diving. Staff also offer updates on road conditions and nearby attractions. The centre includes a small café and a travel shop operated by Icewear.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2004, Thingvellir National Park was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List for its outstanding historical and geological value. This recognition highlights the importance of the site to Iceland and to the world.

Ten ideas for activities on the Golden Circle and nearby

1. Continue your journey and explore the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall and the volcanic crater Kerið. You can also visit Skálholt and its exhibition.
2. Take a dip! Try snorkelling or diving in Silfra, relax at Fontana Spa or enjoy the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir.
3. Hike or bike through Reykjadalur above Hveragerði, bathe in the warm river where safe and taste traditional rye bread baked in geothermal heat. More information at Hveragerði.
4. Visit greenhouses! Learn about the eco‑community at Sólheimar, tomato cultivation at Friðheimar and mushroom farming in Flúðir.
5. Imagine living in a cave! Explore the man‑made Laugarvatnshellar caves with a guide who shares stories from 100 years ago.
6. Experience an earthquake simulation at the LAVA Centre in Hveragerði.
7. Learn about the Icelandic horse through stable visits or riding tours, for example with Eldhestar.
8. Step into Icelandic village life around 1900 in Eyrarbakki and the new town centre of Selfoss. At the Árnesinga Folk Museum you can explore local history and heritage.
9. Enjoy Icelandic langoustine at seaside restaurants in Stokkseyri or Eyrarbakki. Find more options at South.is.
10. Go on a food tour. Taste traditional skyr at Skyrland or the Skyrgerðin, visit a microbrewery, try Ethiopian cuisine in Flúðir and pick up handmade chocolates in Reykholt.