Where North America meets Eurasia
Category

Sightseeing

Age requirement

All ages

Message from Sophie

Þingvellir is a national park in the south of Iceland located. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. It is also known to be Icelands first National Park in 1928. It is the site of the Alþing, the world's oldest parliament, and is also home to the Silfra fissure where the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia meet. This is a popular snorkeling and diving spot. Þingvellir is a popular tourist destination and offers a variety of activities, including hiking and camping.

The first parliament was held in 930AD and used to take place in tends in the valley. The river Öxará is believed to be man made to create a water resource for the people taking part in the parliament. Beside that it was the place to drown people which were convicted to have committed a crime. Don’t worry this is not practiced anymore today. The houses that can be seen in the valley today are the summerhouse of the prime minister. North America and Eurasia are meeting in Þingvellir as the tectonic plates are arising in the famous Silfra fissure. Parts of the Silfra fissure are under water. There you can dive or snorkel in the clearest water of the world.

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