Capri Of The North

The history of the settlement in the Westmann Islands   (Vestmannaeyjar) is at least as old as that of the settlement of Iceland which   is considered to have taken place in 874 A.D. Carbon dating from the  archaeological excavations in Herjólfsdalur ("Herjólfur´s valley", where the   Vestmannaeyjar festival now takes place) certainly indicate that   Vestmannaeyjar was inhabited at that time, if not even earlier.

The geological history of the islands themselves, however, can easily be read   in the lava and cliffs of the islands. The fifteen islands and the numerous   rocks and skerries scattered about them were formed by submarine volcanic   eruptions thousands of years ago.

The youngest island, Surtsey, was created during an eruption which lasted   from 1963 till 1967. The most recent volcanic activity in Vestmannaeyjar   took place in 1973 when the earth opened in a long crevice on the east part   of the main island of Heimaey.

This crevice emitted magma (lava) and huge quantities of volcanic ash which   eventually formed the new mountain of Eldfell. This history of eruptions, as   well as the often harsh winds and the power of the surrounding ocean, have   built and shaped the islands.

One of the most obvious creations of these tremendous forces of nature are   the many sea caves on the islands, which have caused the archipelago to be   given the nickname,"the Capri of the north".

The inhabitants of Vestmannaeyjar have made a livelihood for themselves   from the surly sea that surrounds them, and the precipitous cliffs that gaze   down on them. Their courageousness has been exemplified in both their   work and their play.

The culture that has evolved in Vestmannaeyjar reflects this struggle with   nature's forces which has become an inherent part of everyday life. Solidarity   in both tragedy and happiness is a strong feature of the people.

Tragedy often comes in the form of losses at sea. On the other side of the   coin, the Westmann Islanders capacity for joy can be witnessed at the   celebrations which take place during their annual outdoor festival, held the   first weekend of every August.

Nature's special beautyin Vestmannaeyjar and the abundance of varied bird   life hold an enchanting attraction for both Icelanders and visitors from   abroad. Visitors will find a variety of things to interest them, not least in their   exploration of the newly formed landscape, and its effects on the town and   the people.