About

Kirkjugólf is a natural basalt pavement located approximately 2 km northwest of Kirkjubæjarklaustur village along Route 203. The formation measures roughly 80 square metres and consists of the exposed tops of vertical basalt columns. Basalt columns form when lava cools slowly and contracts, creating regular geometric patterns — typically hexagonal or pentagonal shapes. Kirkjugólf was once the base of a thick lava flow that has since eroded away, leaving only the polished tops of the columns visible. The result is a remarkably flat, tile-like surface that appears almost artificial. Early Icelandic settlers believed Kirkjugólf was the floor of a church built by Irish monks (papar) who lived in Iceland before Norse settlement. The name literally means 'Church Floor.' While no such church existed, the name stuck. Kirkjugólf is easily accessible from a small parking area directly off Route 203. A short walking path (2–3 minutes) leads to the formation. Information boards explain the geology and folklore. The site is free to visit and takes 10–15 minutes to explore. Nearby attractions include Systrafoss waterfall and Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon.

📖 Story

When early Icelandic settlers first saw this perfectly flat expanse of hexagonal stone tiles, they believed it must be the floor of an ancient church built by Irish monks before the Norse arrival. The 'tiles' fit together so precisely, the surface so level and geometric, it seemed impossible that nature alone could create such order. In fact, Kirkjugólf is the eroded top of a basalt lava column system — the same hexagonal formations seen at Giant's Causeway in Ireland or Svartifoss in Iceland, but viewed from above rather than the side. It remains one of Iceland's most curious and photogenic geological oddities.

Key Facts