Helgafell Tour Guides
Discover the historic grounds of Helgafell, once home to Icelandic legend Guðrún Ósvifursdóttir and a center of medieval spirituality and knowledge since 1184. Helgafell Monastery, believed to have been Iceland’s largest, thrived as a hub for education, culture, and literary preservation.
Though the monastery's exact location remains a mystery, recent archaeological efforts guided by ancient maps and records have revealed fascinating layers of Iceland’s history and sacred heritage. Today, Helgafell stands as a vital link to the past, where legends and folklore continue to inspire.
Visit this landmark and uncover the stories that bring Helgafell’s rich history to life.
Welcome to Helgafell: A Journey Through History and Legend
Step into the heart of Icelandic history at Helgafell, a sacred mountain steeped in myth and legend. This iconic landmark is the final resting place of Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir, one of the most famous women in the Icelandic sagas and celebrated as the first Independent Icelandic woman.
From the summit of Helgafell, experience not only this powerful history but also breathtaking views of the Westfjords, the charming town of Stykkishólmur, and its surrounding islands. Whether you’re here for the legends or the landscapes, Helgafell offers an unforgettable journey into Iceland's past.
Helgafell Church: A Place of Faith and History
At the base of Helgafell, the modest yet historic Helgafell Church sits, built in 1903. Despite its simplicity, the church holds deep significance, and houses one of the oldest church bells in Iceland, with ties to Queen Maria of England, better known as Bloody Mary. But this is not the first church built there. An Augustinian monastery was moved from Flatey island in 1184 to Helgafell, serving as a spiritual center since the 12th century and having witnessed generations of worship and community gatherings.
Closely tied to the saga of Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir, whose grave rests nearby, the church remains a site of pilgrimage for those seeking to connect with Iceland’s past. Today, it continues to offer a peaceful space for reflection under the shadow of the sacred mountain.
Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir: A Saga of Strength and Independence
Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir, a central figure in the Laxdæla Saga, is remembered as Iceland’s first Independent woman. Her life was one of great beauty, wisdom, and resilience, marked by four marriages and deep personal trials. Known for her fierce independence and complex emotions, Guðrún’s legacy endures as one of Iceland's most compelling heroines.
Her grave at Helgafell remains a powerful symbol of her enduring story, where myth and history come together.
Snorri Goði
Snorri Goði was a legendary chieftain, law speaker, and master of influence. Famous for trading estates with Guðrún Ósvífsdóttir, one of Iceland’s most iconic figures, Snorri chose Helgafell, a place steeped in mystery - as his home. Recognizing its spiritual significance, he built the site’s first church and turned the sacred hill into a hub for reflection. According to the Eyrbyggja Saga, Snorri would gather friends atop Helgafell, drawing on its mystical power to solve life’s toughest problems. Helgafell became a beacon of wisdom, faith, and inspiration.
The Chapel Ruins of Helgafell: A Path to Wishes
At the summit of Helgafell, you’ll encounter the intriguing kapella, or "The Chapel" - a humble stone structure. Though its exact origins are unclear, local tradition holds that this ancient ruin, possibly a prayer chapel, has long been a site of spiritual reflection.
Though small, the chapel holds profound significance. It stands as a symbol of Helgafell’s sacred history and the deep spiritual connection Icelanders have with the land. Whether you're drawn to the legend or simply the peace of the surroundings, this tradition invites you to participate in an enduring practice that links past and present.
To make your wishes, you must walk up the mountain in silence, without looking back. Once at the top, stand by the ruins of the chapel, facing east, and make your three wishes.