Exhibition on the Settlement (Reykjavík 871±2)

In the heart of Reykjavík, a city that blends modernity and tradition with a unique charm, lies one of the most fascinating and significant attractions to understand the historical roots of the Icelandic capital: the archaeological site known as Reykjavík 871±2. This curious name comes from the radiocarbon dating of a layer of tephra (volcanic ash) found on the site, which suggests that human settlement dates back to around 871 AD, with a margin of error of two years. The Reykjavík 871±2 site is located under the eastern corner of the Reykjavik City Museum building and houses the ruins of a Viking longhouse, discovered during construction work in 2001. This archaeological discovery has provided an unprecedented window into the city’s past, revealing details about the lives of the early Icelandic settlers. The longhouse is considered one of the oldest buildings ever found in Iceland, offering tangible evidence of the presence of the early Nordic settlers. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by an engaging experience that combines modern technologies with authentic historical artifacts. The ruins of the longhouse are preserved under a glass floor, allowing visitors to walk over the ancient structure and observe the details of the Viking settlement. The use of multimedia projections, ambient sounds, and virtual reconstructions creates a vivid and dynamic context, making the visit not only educational but also emotionally engaging. The longhouse, about 20 meters long, was built using local materials such as wood, turf, and stone, typical of Viking dwellings. Excavations have revealed various artifacts, including household utensils, fragments of pottery, and agricultural tools, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the early inhabitants of Reykjavík. These artifacts suggest that the community was self-sufficient, with activities including agriculture, animal husbandry, and fishing. An intriguing feature of the site is the presence of a central fire pit, which was the heart of the longhouse. This space not only provided warmth and light but was also the focal point of social and family life, where residents gathered to cook, work, and tell stories. The layout of the longhouse, with living and working areas organized around the fire pit, reflects the importance of fire in Viking culture and survival. In addition to the longhouse, the Reykjavík 871±2 site also includes an exhibition on the urbanization and development of the city from the Viking period to the present day. This part of the exhibition traces the evolution of Reykjavík from a small settler settlement to a vibrant and modern capital, exploring the economic, social, and cultural transformations that have characterized its history.