37 Facts About Abandoned Iceland

The Mystique of Abandoned Iceland

Iceland, known for its stunning landscapes and rich history, also harbors a fascinating array of abandoned places. These sites tell stories of the past, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited them.

1. Herring Era Museum: This museum in Siglufjörður preserves the remnants of the once-thriving herring industry that collapsed in the 1960s.

2. Djúpavík: A remote village with an abandoned herring factory, now a hauntingly beautiful ruin.

3. Keldur Turf Houses: These ancient homes, abandoned but preserved, showcase traditional Icelandic architecture.

4. Hofskirkja: An abandoned turf church, one of the last of its kind, located in Öræfi.

5. Þingvellir National Park: Home to abandoned farms and historical sites, this park is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Abandoned Farms and Villages

Iceland's harsh climate and economic changes have led to the abandonment of many farms and villages. These places now stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era.

6. Hesteyri: An abandoned village in the Westfjords, accessible only by boat.

7. Árbær Open Air Museum: This museum in Reykjavik features relocated and restored abandoned farmhouses.

8. Stöðvarfjörður: A village with several abandoned buildings, reflecting the decline of the fishing industry.

9. Selatangar: Ruins of an old fishing village on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

10. Kárahnjúkar: An area with abandoned farms, now overshadowed by a massive hydroelectric project.

Industrial Relics

Iceland's industrial past has left behind numerous abandoned structures, from factories to power plants. These relics offer a glimpse into the country's industrial history.

11. Laugavegur: An abandoned geothermal power plant near Reykjavik.

12. Keflavík Naval Air Station: A former U.S. military base, now largely abandoned.

13. Reykjavik's Old Harbor: Home to several abandoned warehouses and industrial buildings.

14. Álftanes: An area with abandoned fish processing plants.

15. Hvalfjörður: Site of an abandoned whaling station, now a historical landmark.

Forgotten Churches

Iceland's religious history is marked by numerous abandoned churches, each with its own unique story.

16. Búðir Church: An iconic black church, now abandoned but still standing.

17. Hofskirkja: Another turf church, abandoned but preserved as a historical site.

18. Þingeyraklaustur: Ruins of an ancient monastery, one of Iceland's oldest religious sites.

19. Skálholt: Once a major religious center, now home to abandoned church ruins.

20. Hólar: A historical site with abandoned church buildings and ruins.

Abandoned Schools and Hospitals

Educational and medical facilities, once bustling with activity, now lie abandoned across Iceland. These places offer a poignant reminder of the past.

21. Reykjavik's Old School: An abandoned school building in the heart of the city.

22. Keflavík Hospital: A former military hospital, now abandoned.

23. Húsavík School: An old school building, now left to decay.

24. Akureyri Hospital: Parts of this hospital are now abandoned, though some sections remain in use.

25. Egilsstaðir School: An abandoned school in eastern Iceland.

Ghost Towns

Iceland's ghost towns are eerie yet fascinating, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once called these places home.

26. Hesteyri: A ghost town in the Westfjords, once a thriving fishing village.

27. Djúpavík: Another ghost town, with an abandoned herring factory.

28. Stöðvarfjörður: A village with several abandoned buildings, reflecting the decline of the fishing industry.

29. Selatangar: Ruins of an old fishing village on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

30. Kárahnjúkar: An area with abandoned farms, now overshadowed by a massive hydroelectric project.

Abandoned Military Sites

Iceland's strategic location has led to the establishment of numerous military sites, many of which are now abandoned.

31. Keflavík Naval Air Station: A former U.S. military base, now largely abandoned.

32. Reykjavik's Old Harbor: Home to several abandoned warehouses and industrial buildings.

33. Álftanes: An area with abandoned fish processing plants.

34. Hvalfjörður: Site of an abandoned whaling station, now a historical landmark.

35. Þingvellir National Park: Home to abandoned farms and historical sites, this park is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Abandoned Cultural Sites

Cultural sites, once vibrant with activity, now stand abandoned, offering a glimpse into Iceland's rich cultural heritage.

36. Reykjavik's Old Theater: An abandoned theater in the heart of the city.

37. Akureyri Cultural Center: Parts of this cultural center are now abandoned, though some sections remain in use.

Iceland's Hidden Mysteries

Iceland's abandoned places hold a unique charm. From deserted villages to forgotten factories, each site tells a story of resilience and change. These spots aren't just relics; they're windows into the past, showing how people adapted to Iceland's harsh environment. Exploring these areas offers a glimpse into the country's history and culture, revealing the struggles and triumphs of its inhabitants.

Visiting these abandoned places can be an adventure. They provide a stark contrast to Iceland's bustling tourist spots, offering a quieter, more reflective experience. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, these hidden gems are worth the trip. So next time you're in Iceland, take a detour from the usual attractions. You'll find that the abandoned corners of this beautiful country have their own tales to tell, waiting for you to discover.