Básendar

Background

History & Background

For centuries, Básendar stood as a prominent trading and fishing settlement on the Reykjanes peninsula. Its strategic location made it a coveted outpost, leading to intense competition among European powers. In 1532, this rivalry erupted into the 'Battle of Básendar,' where English and German merchants clashed for dominance, with the Germans ultimately prevailing. The site also boasts a fascinating connection to Icelandic literary history; the celebrated hymn writer Hallgrímur Pétursson, after being expelled from a Danish school, worked at the Básendar trading post upon his return to Iceland in 1637. Following the Reformation, the Danish monarchy assumed control of the fishing operations, integrating Básendar into its royal trade monopoly. However, the settlement's long history came to an abrupt and catastrophic end on January 9, 1799. On this fateful day, the 'Básendaflóð' – the greatest recorded tsunami to strike the Icelandic coast – devastated the area, sweeping away every single building and structure. The event was so impactful that the flood itself was named after the site, a permanent reminder of nature's formidable power and Básendar's tragic demise.

Básendar was a long-used fishing and trading place on the exposed coast south of Stafnes. During the era of the Danish trade monopoly, its trading district included Hafnir, Stafnes and Miðnes. During the night of 9 January 1799, an exceptionally severe coastal flood struck Básendar and swept away most buildings, effectively ending the settlement. Ruins and old stone walls remain in the landscape. Visit Reykjanes directs visitors from a marked parking area near Stafnes on foot to the site. The coast is exposed, so dress for wind and weather and stay clear of surf in rough conditions.