35 Facts About First Viking Settlement Iceland

The First Viking Settlement in Iceland

The Vikings were known for their seafaring skills and adventurous spirit. Iceland, with its rugged landscapes and harsh climate, became one of their most notable settlements. Here are some fascinating facts about the first Viking settlement in Iceland.

The Arrival of the Vikings

The journey to Iceland was no small feat. The Vikings had to navigate treacherous waters and unpredictable weather to reach this remote island.

1. The first Viking to set foot in Iceland was Naddodd, a Norwegian sailor, around 860 AD. He named it "Snowland" due to the snow-covered mountains.
2. Garðar Svavarsson, a Swedish Viking, was the first to circumnavigate Iceland in 870 AD. He confirmed it was an island and named it Garðarshólmi.
3. Flóki Vilgerðarson, another Norwegian Viking, attempted to settle in Iceland around 874 AD. He named it "Iceland" after seeing icebergs in the fjords.
4. Ingólfur Arnarson is considered the first permanent settler of Iceland. He arrived in 874 AD and established a farm in Reykjavík, which means "smoky bay."

Life in the Settlement

Living in Iceland was challenging due to its harsh climate and volcanic activity. The Vikings had to adapt quickly to survive.

5. The early settlers built longhouses made of turf and wood, which provided insulation against the cold.
6. Sheep farming became a primary source of food and clothing. The Vikings also raised cattle, horses, and goats.
7. Fishing was crucial for survival. The settlers relied on the abundant fish in the surrounding waters.
8. The Vikings brought with them barley and other crops, but farming was difficult due to the short growing season.
9. The settlers used hot springs for bathing and cooking, taking advantage of Iceland's geothermal activity.

Governance and Society

The Viking settlers established a unique system of governance and social structure in Iceland.

10. The Althing, established in 930 AD, is the world's oldest parliamentary institution. It served as a legislative and judicial assembly.
11. Chieftains, known as goðar, played a crucial role in Icelandic society. They were responsible for maintaining law and order.
12. The settlers practiced a form of Norse paganism, worshipping gods like Odin, Thor, and Freyja.
13. Blood feuds and legal disputes were common. The Althing provided a forum for resolving conflicts.
14. Women in Viking society had more rights compared to other European societies. They could own property and initiate divorce.

Exploration and Expansion

The Vikings were not content with just settling in Iceland. They continued to explore and expand their horizons.

15. Erik the Red, an Icelandic Viking, discovered Greenland around 982 AD. He established the first Norse settlements there.
16. Leif Erikson, son of Erik the Red, is believed to have reached North America around 1000 AD, long before Columbus.
17. The Vikings established trade routes with other European countries, exchanging goods like wool, fish, and walrus ivory.
18. Icelandic sagas, written in the 13th century, recount the adventures and exploits of these early settlers.

Cultural Legacy

The Viking settlers left a lasting impact on Icelandic culture and heritage.

19. The Icelandic language has remained relatively unchanged since the Viking Age. Modern Icelanders can still read the ancient sagas.
20. Icelandic sagas are considered some of the most important medieval literature. They provide valuable insights into Viking life and society.
21. The settlers brought with them a rich tradition of storytelling, poetry, and music.
22. The Vikings introduced the concept of þing, or assembly, which influenced Iceland's democratic traditions.
23. Norse mythology and folklore continue to be an integral part of Icelandic culture.

Environmental Impact

The arrival of the Vikings had a significant impact on Iceland's environment.

24. Deforestation occurred as settlers cleared land for farming and building materials. Only about 1% of Iceland's original forests remain today.
25. Soil erosion became a major issue due to overgrazing by sheep and other livestock.
26. The settlers introduced new species, such as the Icelandic horse and sheep, which adapted well to the harsh conditions.
27. Volcanic eruptions and harsh winters posed constant challenges for the settlers.

Modern-Day Connections

The legacy of the first Viking settlers is still evident in modern Iceland.

28. Many Icelanders can trace their ancestry back to the original Viking settlers.
29. Traditional Viking festivals, such as Þorrablót, are still celebrated in Iceland.
30. The Icelandic horse, descended from the horses brought by the Vikings, is a symbol of national pride.
31. Iceland's flag, with its blue, white, and red colors, represents the country's Viking heritage.
32. The National Museum of Iceland houses numerous artifacts from the Viking Age, providing a glimpse into the past.
33. Reykjavík, the capital city, still bears the name given by Ingólfur Arnarson.
34. Iceland's unique landscape, shaped by volcanic activity and glaciers, continues to attract visitors from around the world.
35. The spirit of exploration and adventure, inherited from the Vikings, remains a core part of Icelandic identity.

The Legacy of Viking Settlements in Iceland

Viking settlements in Iceland left a lasting mark on history. These early settlers, arriving around 874 AD, transformed the island with their unique culture, language, and traditions. They established the Althing, one of the world's oldest parliaments, showcasing their advanced governance. The Vikings' influence is still evident in modern Icelandic society, from place names to folklore.

Their seafaring skills and exploration spirit paved the way for future discoveries. The sagas, written by these settlers, provide invaluable insights into their lives and adventures. Despite harsh conditions, they thrived, adapting to the environment and creating a resilient community.

Understanding the Vikings' impact on Iceland helps appreciate the island's rich heritage. Their legacy continues to inspire curiosity and admiration, reminding us of their remarkable contributions to history.