Breið og Akranesviti
Breið and Akranesviti are two historic lighthouses in Akranes, offering coastal views and a glimpse into Iceland’s maritime history.
About
About Breið og Akranesviti
Breið and Akranesviti are two historic lighthouses in Akranes, offering coastal views and a glimpse into Iceland’s maritime history.
Visit Breið and Akranesviti to experience two generations of Icelandic lighthouse history in one scenic coastal location.
Photos
Photo Gallery
Background
History & Background
The lighthouse Breið was built in the late 19th century as one of Iceland’s early navigational aids. In the early 20th century, the larger Akranesviti was constructed to improve maritime safety in the region and eventually replaced Breið as the main operational lighthouse. Both structures were preserved, and today they stand together as an important historical site reflecting the development of lighthouse technology and coastal navigation in Iceland.
Breið and Akranesviti are two historic lighthouses located on the coastline of Akranes in West Iceland. Standing close together, they form one of the most recognizable coastal landmarks in the area and offer a clear visual connection between different periods in Iceland’s maritime history. The older lighthouse, Breið, was constructed in the late 19th century during a time when Iceland relied heavily on coastal navigation for fishing and transport. Its relatively simple design reflects early lighthouse construction in the country, where functionality and visibility were the primary concerns. As maritime activity increased and the need for stronger navigational aids grew, a new lighthouse was built nearby. The newer Akranesviti, completed in the early 20th century, replaced Breið as the main guiding light for ships. Larger and more modern in design, it provided improved visibility and safety for vessels navigating the surrounding waters of Faxaflói bay. Unlike many older lighthouses that were demolished after being replaced, Breið was preserved, allowing both structures to remain as part of the landscape. Today, the site is popular with visitors for its scenic coastal views, photography opportunities, and historical significance. The newer lighthouse is occasionally open to the public, offering panoramic views over the ocean and surrounding coastline. Together, Breið and Akranesviti represent the evolution of maritime safety in Iceland and the enduring importance of the sea in the country’s history and identity.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
On the windswept coast of Akranes, two lighthouses stand side by side, telling the story of changing times at sea. The older lighthouse, Breið, was built in the late 19th century when maritime navigation relied on simple but vital signals to guide ships along Iceland’s rugged coastline. For years, its light helped fishermen and sailors find their way safely through often unpredictable waters. As shipping increased and navigation technology advanced, a larger and more powerful lighthouse was needed. In the early 20th century, Akranesviti was constructed nearby, eventually replacing Breið as the primary beacon. Rather than removing the older structure, both were left standing, creating a unique pairing that reflects different eras of maritime history. Today, visitors can walk between the two lighthouses, experiencing the contrast between past and present. The steady presence of both towers, facing the open sea, serves as a reminder of the importance of navigation, safety, and the enduring relationship between Iceland and the ocean.
💡 Did You Know?
Akranesviti is one of the few lighthouses in Iceland that visitors can enter and climb, offering views across Faxaflói bay.
Culture
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Location
📍 Location
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