Mt. Helgafell, also known as Helgi’s Mountain, is a dormant volcanic cone that stands 227 meters tall on the island of Heimaey in Iceland’s Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. Mt. Helgafell is a moderate hiking peak that, according to mythology, grants desires to those who climb it correctly.
The Stórhöfði peninsula, located south of Helgafell in southern Heimaey, was formed approximately 6000 years ago. Helgafell emerged a thousand years later in a monogenetic volcanic eruption, creating much of the existing island during 11 to 12 months, about 3950 BCE ± 300 years. The historic eruption produced 0.65 km3 of lava and scoria, with a DRE (Dense-rock equivalent) of 0.59 km3.
Eldfell, located just north of Helgafell, is an active volcano that erupted without warning on January 23, 1973. There are also options for additional sightseeing and exploration in the region’s coastal areas, including Mt. Kirkjufell. Snorri Godi Þorgrímsson lived here in the late 10th century and built a church, followed by Guðrún Ósvifursdóttir, who is believed to have died in 1008. On top of the mountain there is a ruin made of loaded paving stones and could be the remains of a viewing shelter.
Many people in the area have great affection for the mountain, which has a long history that dates back to Iceland’s colonization. Helgafell is regarded as a blessed place and has a custom of having people climb the hill without turning around, make a wish at the summit, and then descend the hill without turning around. It is stated that your request will be granted after doing this. Whatever the superstitions among local folklore, the ascend hill will be rewarded with stunning views, including a magnificent view of Breidafjordur Sea and Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
It is a fantastic viewpoint to take in the surrounding water and mountains. It was stunning, as with many sites in Iceland. The names and elevations of all the nearby mountains are shown on a view dial at the summit of the mountain nearby. There is also a tiny mound of stones nearby that are thought to be from the chapel of the Augustinian monastery. This monastery was relocated to Helgafell from Flatey Island.
The church atop Mt. Helgafell was built in 1903 by the area’s first settler, Þórólfr Mostrarskegg. Some think a grave, which is Icelandic saga heroine Gudrun Osvifursdottir. There formerly stood an Augustinian monastery that served as a major center of learning for the West of Iceland throughout the Middle Ages. This haphazard hill rises up south of the town.
Because it is on private land, there is a nominal charge. There is also a tale that says that if you ascend silently and without looking back, your request will be granted. The 33rd chapter of Landnáma, or the Book of Settlement, mentions Mt. Helgafell. It speaks of a mountain on the peninsula that was so respected that no man should look toward it unwashed. This mountain is known as Mt. Helgafell. You can begin your trek up Mt. Helgafell on the west side of the peak or from her tomb outside the churchyard. Therefore, a nature lover shouldn’t miss witnessing the natural wonder of Mt. Helgafell.
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