capital-region · Iceland
Kapelluhraun
Kapelluhraun is a rough and largely barren lava field located between Hafnarfjörður and Straumur in southwest Iceland. The lava is believed to have flowed in the early historical period. Within the lava field, just south of Reykjanesbraut and opposite the aluminum plant in Straumsvík, stands a small stone structure built from lava rock known as Kapella. During an excavation in 1950, a small statue of Saint Barbara was discovered there, suggesting that the site may once have served as a Catholic place of prayer. In recent decades, large amounts of material have been extracted from Kapelluhraun for construction purposes in the greater Reykjavík area, including road building and foundations. Despite this, the lava mound containing the chapel has been preserved and is now a protected site.
About Kapelluhraun
Kapelluhraun is a rough and largely barren lava field located between Hafnarfjörður and Straumur in southwest Iceland. The lava is believed to have flowed in the early historical period. Within the lava field, just south of Reykjanesbraut and opposite the aluminum plant in Straumsvík, stands a small stone structure built from lava rock known as Kapella. During an excavation in 1950, a small statue of Saint Barbara was discovered there, suggesting that the site may once have served as a Catholic place of prayer. In recent decades, large amounts of material have been extracted from Kapelluhraun for construction purposes in the greater Reykjavík area, including road building and foundations. Despite this, the lava mound containing the chapel has been preserved and is now a protected site.
History & Background
Kapelluhraun was formed by volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, likely during the early historical period of Iceland. The lava spread across the landscape, creating the rough terrain visible today. The chapel within the lava field is believed to date back to medieval times and was likely used by travelers as a place of prayer. The discovery of a statue of Saint Barbara in 1950 supports its religious significance. In modern times, parts of the lava field have been quarried for construction materials. However, the area containing the chapel has been preserved and designated as a protected cultural site, ensuring its continued importance as both a geological and historical landmark.
Did You Know?
- ✔Iceland was formed by volcanic activity approximately 16-18 million years ago
- ✔Kapelluhraun showcases Iceland's remarkable geological diversity
- ✔Iceland sits where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet
Tours Near Kapelluhraun
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
A rare place where volcanic geology and medieval religious history meet in one landscape.
Did You Know?
A small statue of Saint Barbara—patron saint of miners and protection—was discovered in the chapel ruin in 1950.
The Chapel in the Lava
It is said that travelers crossing the lava fields once believed Kapella offered protection. Those who stopped to pray would continue their journey safely, while those who passed by without pause risked misfortune. Even today, the site carries a quiet stillness. On calm days, the silence feels deeper than expected, as if the land holds onto the memory of those who once relied on it.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
