by William Taylor
Iceland is a land where natural wonders meet a rich cultural heritage, and its monuments stand as tributes to a tumultuous and fascinating past. From Viking explorers to modern political milestones, these landmarks reflect the country’s journey through time. While Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes often steal the show, its historical and cultural monuments offer an equally compelling narrative. To maximize your enjoyment, exploring Iceland by rental car is a good way to see and do as much as possible within a short span of time.
Leifur Eiríksson Statue
Situated outside the iconic Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavik, the Leifur Eiríksson statue is one of Iceland’s most important national monuments. Depicting the famed Viking explorer who is believed to have discovered North America long before Columbus, the statue was a gift from the United States in 1930 to commemorate the 1,000th anniversary of Iceland’s parliament. This monument not only honors Leifur’s adventurous spirit but also symbolizes the deep-rooted connections between Iceland and Viking heritage, offering a poignant reminder of the island’s pioneering past.
Hallgrímskirkja
Towering above Reykjavik, Hallgrímskirkja [photo at top] is one of Iceland’s most recognizable landmarks. Named after the 17th-century clergyman and poet Hallgrímur Pétursson, the church is a stunning example of how Icelandic architecture is often inspired by the country’s natural formations—its façade resembles the basalt columns that are scattered across the island. Completed in 1986 after 38 years of construction, Hallgrímskirkja serves not only as a place of worship but also as an observation tower, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city. For both locals and visitors, the church is a symbol of Iceland’s resilience and its ability to blend the old with the new.
The Alþingi (Parliament House)
For those interested in Iceland’s political history, Alþingi, the Parliament House located in Reykjavik, is a must-see monument. It is one of the oldest parliamentary institutions in the world, having been established in 930 AD. Although the current building dates back to 1881, its significance as the seat of Icelandic democracy cannot be overstated. The Alþingi stands as a testament to Iceland’s enduring commitment to self-governance and is a crucial stop for anyone looking to understand the country’s historical path.
Höfði House
Another monument of great historical importance is Höfði House, located on the Reykjavik waterfront. It was here that the famous 1986 summit between U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev took place—a pivotal moment that contributed to the end of the Cold War. This modest building may not be as grand as Hallgrímskirkja, but its role in global history makes it a monument of international significance.
National Museum of Iceland
The National Museum of Iceland is the perfect place to delve deeper into the country’s history. Housing over 2,000 artifacts, including Viking relics, medieval engravings, and objects from Iceland’s conversion to Christianity, the museum presents a comprehensive look at the nation’s past. A permanent exhibition titled Making of a Nation guides visitors through the pivotal moments that shaped Iceland, from early settlements to the modern era. It’s a fascinating journey that reveals the depth of Iceland’s cultural and historical identity.
Sólfar (The Sun Voyager)
On Reykjavik’s waterfront stands Sólfar, or The Sun Voyager, one of the city’s most beloved sculptures. Created by artist Jón Gunnar Árnason, this stainless steel masterpiece is both a tribute to the sun and a representation of a dreamlike vessel, symbolizing hope, freedom, and the promise of discovery. Its sleek, modern design reflects Iceland’s forward-thinking ethos while also nodding to its Viking past, making it a perfect fusion of old and new.
Hólavallagarður Cemetery
Established in 1838, Hólavallagarður Cemetery is one of the most historically significant and peaceful locations in Reykjavik. Situated on the edge of Tjörnin Lake, this cemetery serves as the final resting place for many notable figures in Icelandic history, including poets, politicians, and other influential leaders. Beyond its role as a burial ground, Hólavallagarður is also known for its beautiful setting, with towering trees and lush greenery creating an almost park-like atmosphere. It offers visitors a moment of tranquility, while also providing insight into the lives of individuals who shaped Iceland’s development. The cemetery’s Victorian-era gravestones and monuments are themselves historical artifacts, making it a compelling stop for those interested in Iceland’s past.
The Reykjavík Cathedral (Dómkirkjan)
Located in the heart of Reykjavik, Dómkirkjan (The Reykjavík Cathedral) stands in Austurvöllur square, right next to the Alþingi (Parliament House). Although modest in size compared to Hallgrímskirkja, this cathedral has played a pivotal role in Iceland’s religious and political history. It has been the site of numerous significant events, including the declaration of Iceland’s independence from Denmark in 1944. Built in 1796, Dómkirkjan is an excellent example of Icelandic neoclassical architecture, with its clean lines and restrained design. Visitors can admire the church’s historical significance and attend services, which are still held regularly, offering a glimpse into the island’s ongoing religious traditions. The cathedral remains a vital monument, deeply intertwined with the country’s identity and statehood.
Iceland’s monuments offer a window into the country’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. From the Viking exploits commemorated by the Leifur Eiríksson statue to the modern symbolism of Sólfar, these landmarks provide a deep connection to Iceland’s past and its enduring spirit of exploration. Whether you’re wandering the streets of Reykjavik or venturing into the countryside, these monuments are integral to understanding Iceland’s unique place in the world. For a comprehensive experience, consider renting a car to explore these iconic sites at your own pace.
Dyrhólaey
One of the most recognizable natural formations on Iceland’s south coast is a massive rocky plateau with a colossal sea arch made of stone. The formation is located at Dyrhólaey, and it rises majestically from circling plain of Vik, right where Route 218 ends. The outcrop is an all-natural reserve that’s full of various bird species, including puffins. The archway can also be admired from Reynisfjara shore, one of Iceland’s most iconic black pebble beach locations.
The Great Geyser
The Great Geyser is a natural spot in Iceland positioned on the south western coast. It became active almost 10,000 years ago and it is a fabulous attraction to look at. The boiling water reaches over 70 m in the air, which is truly fascinating. The island’s geysers are a fundamental part of its past. They’re triggered by the surfacing water, which, upon reaching a boiling point spout with steam, thus transforming into a natural phenomenon worth admiring from up close.
Iceland is a wonderful travel destination, superb from all perspectives. The natural wonders, the cultural attractions, and ultimately the people, make it an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday. Know more about its extraordinary past and history by admiring its landmarks, and come meet its welcoming people! Its Viking-inspired edifices blend smoothly with the modern buildings, thus transforming the whole country into a multi-cultural place that will leave you speechless.
If You Go:
Iceland Tours
Iceland Travel Guide
World Travel Guide Iceland
About the author:
William Taylor is a travelling freak who has travelled many destinations around the world. He also loves writing about his traveling experiences and the places he has explored. He writes for www.baltictravelcompany.com which is a specialist in Baltic holidays, Eastern Europe, Scandinavia and the Nordics.
Photo credits:
Hallgrímskirkja church and statue by joaosilvaferreira via (CC BY 2.0)
Alþingishúsið: APK, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
National Museum of Iceland: Szilas, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Dómkirkjan í Reykjavík: APK, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Since its birth fishing and transport have given it purpose and do so to this day, but it was to be the extension of the Nimes-Aigues Morte Railway to the town in 1909 which opened it up for tourism as a major economic driver. The president of France himself declared Grau du Roi a beach resort town in 1924.
Quai Charles de Gaulle and Quai Colbert occupy either side of the canal and offer a host of cafes and restaurants facing upon a canal full of moored craft of all sorts from recreational through to commercial fishing boats. Water traffic is constant and colourful. In fact colour is inescapable and enhanced under a smiling Mediterranean Sun.
Where the canal meets the sea either shore stretches long and sandy to the left and right with Plage de Riv Gauche and Plage de Riv Droite. Shallow beaches afford a vast playground for waders and swimmers with ample shore space for sunbathers. Families, knots of chattering teenagers, a few topless strollers and more share the beach with hawkers advertising cool treats as they work their cumbersome wheeled kiosks across the beach. Sun screen and water socks are a good investment and more than a few bathers were spotted doing the hot sand dance across the beach.
Grau-du-Roi aims to keep its visitors occupied and entertained and to that end is awash with things to see and do. Add to Sun and beach the Seaquarium at Le Palais de la Mer, a healthy beach walk or short town bus trip from the town centre and the arena, home of the unique Camargue Races (a man/bull contest in which both survive to star another day).
Restaurants abound and we took in a pleasing meal at reasonable fare at a seasonal outdoor restaurant colonizing, with others, a tree shaded enclave; serenaded by by a chanteuse and her accompanying accordion player. The coolness of welcome shade, music and a fine meal reinforced the aura of southern France by the Mediterranean. Walk weary feet drank in comfort.
The other, workaday, side of town is revealed in the docks and moorings of craft toiling at sea with care taken towards functionality rather than appearance. Even so there is an aura about this long lasted foundation of the local economy. A business indifferently sharing waters and canal with recreational craft of varying opulence. Crossing Pont Tournant we stopped to watch an 8 man dory, six oars pushing water, making its way inland; its chanting rowers, ladies all, moving as one.
About the author:
As a history lover, I found several sites of interest, with their unique archaeological heritage. The country is rich in ancient relics, from Neolithic Age to Greek, Roman and Medieval times, the symbol of the ancient grandeur of one of the most well-documented people of antiquity, the Thracians, recognized as one of the most powerful people in the Ancient World. All cities have their own museum with Thracian, Hellenic and Roman treasures of amazing quality and interest, irrespective of many Orthodox churches and monasteries. It is difficult to leave Bulgaria without being held spellbound by its beautiful view.
Many Bulgarian towns still bear important traces of their Thracian past, such as Kazanlak. Archaeological excavations carried out near Kazanlak, in the famous area of the Rose Valley, discovered substantial remains of tombs, shrines, and other important remnants of Thracian culture. The Odriss Kingdom of the Thraces had its splendid capital at Sevtopolis, ruled by King Sevt III [also known as Seuth], which was submerged and then discovered between the modern Kazanlak and the village of Koprinka. The tomb of King Seuth III was found within the Golyama Kosmatka Mound, near Kazanlak, and it contained a vast treasure including paintings, ornaments, one golden crown, one golden mask and the statue head of the same King Seuth III.
About the author:
by Sarah Humphreys 
An unknown architect finished the Basilica of San Vitale in 547 on the spot where St Vitalis was martyred by being buried alive. Richly ornamented mosaics inside depict scenes from The Old Testament, including the Sacrifice of Isaac, Moses and The burning bush and Cain and Abel. Decorative leaves, fruit and flowers encircle the Lamb of God on the vault of the presbytery. Glittering mosaics pay homage to the Emperor Justinian I and his Empress Theodora.
Exiting from the back of San Vitale, you will come across a small, ordinary-looking brick building, which contains Ravenna’s finest treasures. The powerful Roman Empress Galla Placidia, who wielded extreme power as regent for her young son Valentinian III, probably commissioned the tiny Mausoleum which bears her name. Shaped like a Greek cross, the building has sunk 4.5 feet into the ground due to subsidence. The limited space within the structure means visits are restricted to five minutes only, guaranteed to be intense moments.
The Basilica of San Apollinare Nuovo houses a series of impressive mosaics dating from 500 under rule of the Arian King Theodoric, which show scenes of Christ’s miracles, parables and The Passion. The lower rows of mosaics date from 560, when Ravenna was under Christian rule, and feature saints, martyrs and a procession of Virgins led by The Three Magi, sporting animal-print leggings. According to legend, Pope Gregory had the earlier mosaics blackened to prevent worshippers from being distracted, and many of the original Arian mosaics were removed. It is still possible to see some disembodied limbs that evaded destruction.
The Chapel of St Andrew, housed in the Archbishop’s museum, is the smallest private early Christian oratory to have survived until the present day. Dazzling mosaics create a shimmering tapestry of saints, angels and decorative motifs and 99 species of birds are shown against a splendid starry sky. Christ is shown as a warrior, crushing the figures of a serpent and a wild beast.
The only UNESCO World Heritage Site not to contain mosaics is the Mausoleum of Theodoric. Its unusual structure, consisting of two decagonal parts topped by a monolithic dome, is formed from Istrian stone blocks. The combination of Roman, Barbarian and Medieval architecture fascinated The Romantics and The Mausoleum was popular with tourists on The Grand Tour.
Other notable sites include the extraordinary underwater crypt in the cathedral of San Francesco, complete with goldfish, and the “House of Stone Carpet”, the remains of a Byzantine house complete with huge decorative floor mosaics. Just next to the Cathedral is the final resting place of Dante, who died in Ravenna in 1321. Although exiled form Florence in his lifetime, the city has continuously appealed for the great poet’s remains to be returned. Ravenna has constantly turned down this request. On the 2nd Sunday in September, olive oil donated by the city of Florence, is brought to Ravenna to light the lamb that hangs over Dante’s tomb.
Although the main sites in Ravenna could be seen in a day, it is well worth spending longer in this peaceful city. The place where Dante finished his “Divine Comedy” and Byron started writing “Don Juan”, was recently voted the number one place to live by “Il Sole 24 “ financial newspaper and it surely won’t take you long to see why.
The whitewashed village, lined with narrow cobblestone streets overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is the oldest of the three as it was founded by the Moors. I was fortunate enough to be in Benalmádena Pueblo in June for the major celebration of Corpus Christi where thousands of locals and tourists gather on the streets to watch the holy procession honouring the Body of Christ. On the eve of this festivity, hundreds of locals congregate to elaborately adorn the altars and decorate their balconies and windows in the brightest coloured tapestries. The community also collaborates in transforming the main street into a work of art by arranging 78,000 vibrant flower blooms in the form of a fabulously designed floral carpet. Meanwhile, the smaller streets are strewn and perfumed with palm leaves, rose petals, lavender, and aromatic herbs such as rosemary and thyme.
Once the procession was over, I decided to indulge my curiosity by exploring what some have described as “the most beautiful place on earth.” I only knew that the Castillo Monumento Colomares was about a 15 minute walk from the center of the pueblo. However, no indication as to its whereabouts could be found anywhere along the remote area and I began to get discouraged in the blazing heat of the afternoon sun. Fortunately, after asking for directions several times, a cyclist appeared who knew how to get there.
Nearly an hour had passed since I left the pueblo and I found myself gasping in delight when it finally appeared around the corner amidst isolated trees and bushes on a small curvy road.
This enchanting structure was built during the late 20th century in memory of Columbus and the Discovery of America. The castle is actually the largest monument in the world dedicated to the Italian explorer. Seven years of work it took with the help of two bricklayers who incorporated several styles of architecture designed by a doctor. The castle, advertised as “a fantasy made by stone”, has 16 points of interest that include Isabella’s Castle, the Oriental Tower, and the Christmas Fortress of 1492. The complex also houses the smallest church in the world as listed in The Guinness Book of Records. The views of the Mediterranean Coast from this hidden gem adorned with decorative fountains, spiral staircases, and ornamental gates are magnificent, and I left wondering why the castle was not better promoted.
A 20 minute walk from the Colomares Castle is the Mariposario de Benalmádena or “Butterfly Park.” Known as the largest one of its kind in Europe, this tropical garden paradise set inside a Thai temple is home to over 1500 exotic butterflies. More than 150 different species reside here among cascading waterfalls, floral gardens, and tropical plants.
This urban residential town, nestled between the mountains and the sea, is home to several major family attractions and theme parks. Selwo Marina Delfinarium is the only one of its kind in the Andalusian region where you can feed penguins and swim with dolphins and sea lions. Tivoli World is a popular theme park known as the largest on the Costa del Sol. Across the entrance is the Teleférico or cable cars that take you to Mount Calamorro in 15 minutes where you can savour views of the coast and on clear days, Gibraltar and North Africa as well.
Paloma Park is a vast and serene gated area perfect for an afternoon stroll by the great lake on paved walkways adorned by plants, gardens, statues, and fountains. Peacocks, roosters, geese, ducks, pigeons, doves, and rabbits all call this park their home.
By the entrance to the Marina stands the Moorish lookout tower, Torre Bermeja (Reddish Tower), the oldest of three that remain along the coast of Benalmádena. These cylindrical towers were raised to warn against the enemy ships approaching from North Africa. Although reconstructed during the 16th century, the tower first appears in documents dated to the 13th century. Of 16th century Christian origin are Torre Quebrada (Broken Tower) and Torre Muelle (Dock Tower) in the nearby, namesake suburbs of Torrequebrada and Torremuelle respectively.
However, the main landmark of Benalmádena Costa is the stunning, burgundy palace known as the Castillo El Bil-Bil. The Moroccan-style structure was built on the seafront in 1930 for a wealthy Spanish-French family. Seven years later it was purchased by an American family who lived here for 30 years. When asking about the curious name, Salvador, the caretaker informed me that the names of the American family were Elsa (El) who was married to William (Bil) and both had a son together also named William (Bil.).
Within the lovely gardens of El Bil-Bil is the monument to Ibn al-Baytar, an illustrious scholar born in Benalmádena during Moorish rule. The commemorative plaque reads in Spanish and English; Ibn al-Baytar – The distinguished botanist and pharmacologist born in Benalmádena: Benalmádena 1197 – Damascus 1248. Al-Baytar became one of the most renowned scientists of the Middle Ages. He is further immortalized and remembered as the most famous personality in the history of Benalmádena.
