Landmark Collection » Reykjavík

The first permanent settlement in Iceland by Nordic people is believed to have been established in Reykjavík by Ingólfur Arnarson around 870 AD. He is said to have decided on the location of his settlement using a traditional Viking method; by dumping his high seat pillars, Öndvegissúlur, into the sea when he first saw the coastline. He then settled where the pillars came ashore.

Steam from hot springs in the region is supposed to have inspired Reykjavík's name, as Reykjavík translates to "Bay of Smokes".

This photograph was taken from the observation tower in the famous church of Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík.