Viðey Island

The island of Viðey, located in the bay of Kollafjörður, not far from the coast of Reykjavík, is a hidden treasure of Iceland, rich in history, art, and natural beauty. Easily accessible with a short ferry ride from the port of Reykjavík, Viðey is a place where the past and present harmoniously intertwine, offering visitors a unique and engaging experience. The history of Viðey dates back over a thousand years, when the island was inhabited by the first Norse settlers. In the centuries that followed, Viðey became a religious and political center of great importance. In 1225, an Augustinian monastery was founded, which became a place of study and spirituality. Although the monastery was abandoned during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, its ruins remain an important testament to the island’s religious past. One of the main points of interest in Viðey is Viðeyjarstofa, one of the oldest stone houses in Iceland, built in 1755. Originally a residence of the Danish treasurer and entrepreneur Skúli Magnússon, Viðeyjarstofa is now a museum and restaurant that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the island’s history while enjoying traditional Icelandic dishes. The building, with its elegant architecture and rooms furnished in a historical style, is a fascinating place to explore the life of the time and understand the cultural evolution of the island. The Imagine Peace Tower is another prominent attraction. This artistic and symbolic monument, created by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon, is a column of light that is lit every year from October 9, Lennon’s birthday, to December 8, the anniversary of his death. The tower, located on a hill overlooking the sea, emits a beam of light visible for miles, symbolizing a universal message of peace and hope. The installation has transformed Viðey into a pilgrimage site for Beatles fans and anyone seeking inspiration and reflection. Nature is a central element of the Viðey experience. The island is a paradise for birdwatchers, hosting numerous species of seabirds, including puffins, Arctic terns, and seagulls. Visitors can stroll along paths that cross green meadows and wind-battered cliffs, enjoying the tranquility and wild beauty of the landscape. The lush vegetation, favored by nutrient-rich volcanic soils, creates a spectacular contrast with the blue waters of the surrounding bay. Viðey’s geology offers further points of interest. The island features fascinating basalt formations and other geological features that tell the volcanic history of Iceland. Guided geological excursions allow for detailed exploration of these formations, providing a unique educational opportunity to understand the dynamics that have shaped the Icelandic landscape. Culturally, Viðey plays a significant role in Icelandic history. The island was the scene of crucial historical events, such as the signing of the Viðey Treaty in 1800, which marked a key moment in Iceland’s political history. Additionally, Viðey has been a center of agricultural and fishing production, activities that have contributed to the economic development of the region. The ruins of ancient farms and fishing structures tell stories of a tough but enterprising life, in balance with the natural environment. Contemporary artworks scattered throughout the island add another layer of interest. In addition to the Peace Tower, there are numerous artistic installations that invite visitors to reflect and interact with the environment in new and creative ways. These works, often inspired by the nature and history of Viðey, contribute to creating a dialogue between past and present, enriching the cultural experience of the island. An interesting anecdote concerns the introduction of the Viðey ferry, which has significantly improved the island’s accessibility, attracting visitors and promoting tourism. Before the ferry was introduced, the island was only accessible by private boats, limiting visits to a small audience. The opening of the ferry service has made Viðey a popular destination for day trips, helping to preserve and enhance the island’s natural and cultural heritage.