House of Erik the Red

Eiríksstaðir is an archaeological and historical site located in the Haukadalur valley, in the western part of Iceland. This place is known for being the home of Erik the Red, the famous Viking explorer who discovered and colonized Greenland. The history of Eiríksstaðir dates back over a thousand years ago, around the 10th century, and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Vikings and their exploits. Erik the Red, whose real name was Eiríkr Þorvaldsson, is a central figure in Nordic history. Born in Norway, he moved to Iceland with his family after his father was exiled for murder. Erik himself was no stranger to conflict; he was exiled from Iceland for three years due to a violent dispute. During his exile, he explored the lands west of Iceland, discovering a vast island which he named Greenland to attract other settlers with the promise of fertile green lands. His strategy was successful and Erik founded the first European settlement in Greenland. The site of Eiríksstaðir has been the subject of archaeological excavations that have revealed the foundations of a typical Viking longhouse. Longhouses were the common dwellings of the Vikings, built with local materials such as wood and turf. These structures were designed to accommodate entire families and their livestock, providing shelter from Iceland’s harsh weather conditions. The remains found at Eiríksstaðir include agricultural tools, household items, and artifacts that testify to the daily life of the Vikings. The museum at Eiríksstaðir offers a detailed reconstruction of Erik the Red’s longhouse, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Viking history and culture. The reconstruction is based on archaeological evidence and historical descriptions, and provides an accurate representation of what the dwelling would have looked like during the Viking period. Visitors can explore the interior of the longhouse, see replicas of utensils and furnishings from the time, and learn about the construction techniques used by the Vikings. The reconstruction of the longhouse and the educational activities organized at the museum of Eiríksstaðir allow visitors to experience firsthand the daily life of the Vikings. Demonstrations of traditional craft techniques, such as woodworking and wool processing, offer a practical immersion into Viking culture. These activities not only enrich the visitor experience, but also help to keep ancient traditions alive that are at risk of being lost.