reykjanes · Iceland
Bessastaðaskans
Bessastaðaskans is a historic 17th-century fort, originally built to defend against Turkish raids, now appearing as gentle, grass-covered mounds by the sea. These ancient earthworks offer a glimpse into Iceland's past, set against the dramatic backdrop of a cloudy sky, a shimmering bay, and distant snow-capped mountains.
About Bessastaðaskans
Bessastaðaskans is a historic 17th-century fort, originally built to defend against Turkish raids, now appearing as gentle, grass-covered mounds by the sea. These ancient earthworks offer a glimpse into Iceland's past, set against the dramatic backdrop of a cloudy sky, a shimmering bay, and distant snow-capped mountains.
History & Background
Bessastaðaskans is a historical fort that was erected in the late 17th century, specifically to defend against incursions by Turkish pirates. The structure primarily consisted of four high earthen walls, which over the centuries have naturally settled and become less pronounced, now appearing as gentle mounds. The construction of the fort was a significant undertaking for its time. In 1667, a special tax was levied nationwide to finance the building of Bessastaðaskans, with the people of Suðurnesjamenn tasked with its construction the following year. However, after its initial establishment, the fort was not maintained, and it gradually became overgrown by vegetation. It wasn't until 1930 that Bessastaðaskans was officially preserved as a historical site. Adding to its rich history, local legend tells of Óli skans and his wife Vala, who are said to have lived at the fort. Their story has been passed down through generations and is recounted in a well-known Icelandic poem, intertwining the fort's strategic past with local folklore.
Did You Know?
- ✔Bessastaðaskans is part of Iceland's remarkable coastal landscape
- ✔Many Icelandic beaches feature striking black sand from volcanic activity
- ✔Coastal areas should be approached with caution due to powerful waves
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Book NowAbout Bessastaðaskans
Bessastaðaskans offers a compelling journey into Iceland's past, set against a backdrop of breathtaking coastal scenery. Originally constructed in the late 17th century as a fort to defend against Turkish pirate raids, it stands today not as a towering stronghold, but as a series of gentle, undulating earth mounds, largely overgrown with resilient brown grass and dotted with patches of snow, as seen in the accompanying image. From this historic vantage point, visitors are treated to expansive views across the tranquil bay, with the distant silhouette of a city skyline and the majestic, snow-capped mountains beyond. The fort's history is intriguing, having been funded by a national tax in 1667 and built by locals from Suðurnesjamenn. Despite its initial purpose, it was not maintained, and nature slowly reclaimed it until its protection as a historical site in 1930. Beyond its factual history, the site is steeped in local folklore, particularly the tale of Óli skans and his wife Vala, whose story is immortalized in Icelandic poetry. Access to Bessastaðaskans is via the picturesque Álftanes coastal path, starting from the parking area near Bessastaðakirkja. While offering a serene walk, visitors should be aware that the path may be closed during bird nesting season to protect local wildlife. This unique coastal location, with its blend of history, legend, and dramatic natural beauty, provides a distinctly Icelandic experience.
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Book NowHistory & Background
Bessastaðaskans is a historical fort that was erected in the late 17th century, specifically to defend against incursions by Turkish pirates. The structure primarily consisted of four high earthen walls, which over the centuries have naturally settled and become less pronounced, now appearing as gentle mounds. The construction of the fort was a significant undertaking for its time. In 1667, a special tax was levied nationwide to finance the building of Bessastaðaskans, with the people of Suðurnesjamenn tasked with its construction the following year. However, after its initial establishment, the fort was not maintained, and it gradually became overgrown by vegetation. It wasn't until 1930 that Bessastaðaskans was officially preserved as a historical site. Adding to its rich history, local legend tells of Óli skans and his wife Vala, who are said to have lived at the fort. Their story has been passed down through generations and is recounted in a well-known Icelandic poem, intertwining the fort's strategic past with local folklore.
Story & Folklore
Standing on the windswept mounds of Bessastaðaskans, you can almost hear the echoes of the 17th century when this unassuming fort was a vital defense. Built to guard against marauding Turkish pirates, it was once a formidable structure, now softened by centuries of nature reclaiming its earth walls. The foreground is a mosaic of resilient brown grass and lingering patches of snow, leading down to the dark, restless waters of the bay. Across the expanse, a distant city skyline emerges, crowned by majestic snow-dusted mountains under a brooding, cloudy sky. It’s here, amidst this rugged beauty, that the legend of Óli skans and his wife Vala is said to have unfolded, their story woven into the very fabric of this historic, windswept point.
Visitor Information
Best Time
Seint á vorin til snemma hausts (maí-september) fyrir besta aðgengi og veður, en býður upp á dramatískt útsýni allt árið. Athugið lokanir vegna varptíma.
Duration
45 mínútur til 1 klukkustund til að skoða virkið og njóta útsýnisins.
Access
Aðgengi um Álftaness strandstíg frá bílastæðinu við Bessastaðakirkju. Stígurinn gæti verið lokaður á varptíma fugla.
Why Visit
Discover a unique blend of Icelandic history and stark natural beauty with panoramic coastal views.
Did You Know?
Did you know Bessastaðaskans was funded by a national tax in 1667 to protect against pirates? It's also home to the legendary Óli skans and Vala.
Sagan af Óla skans og Völu
Staðbundnar sögur segja frá Óla skans og konu hans Völu, sem sögð eru hafa búið í virkinu. Saga þeirra er ódauðleg í vel þekktu íslensku kvæði, sem bætir lag af goðsagnakenndum sjarma við þennan sögulega stað.
Hidden Gems Nearby
Bessastaðakirkja
Nálæg söguleg kirkja sem hefur verið til staðar í ýmsum myndum í margar aldir og var einu sinni biskupssetur.
Hún býður upp á innsýn í trúar- og stjórnmálasögu Íslands.
Álftaness strandstígur
Falleg gönguleið meðfram strandlengjunni sem leiðir að Bessastaðaskansi, með útsýni yfir sjóinn og fuglalíf.
Tilvalinn fyrir rólega göngu og til að njóta fersks sjávarlofts og víðáttumikils útsýnis.
Útsýni yfir Reykjavík
Frá Bessastaðaskansi er hægt að sjá skýringarmynd Reykjavíkur yfir flóann, með Hallgrímskirkju oft áberandi.
Tilvalinn staður til að taka myndir af höfuðborginni úr nýju sjónarhorni.
Practical Information
Best Time
Seint á vorin til snemma hausts (maí-september) fyrir besta aðgengi og veður, en býður upp á dramatískt útsýni allt árið. Athugið lokanir vegna varptíma.
Duration
45 mínútur til 1 klukkustund til að skoða virkið og njóta útsýnisins.
Access
Aðgengi um Álftaness strandstíg frá bílastæðinu við Bessastaðakirkju. Stígurinn gæti verið lokaður á varptíma fugla.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee for Bessastaðaskans?▾
No, there is no entry fee to visit Bessastaðaskans. It is an open historical site accessible to the public.
Is parking available near Bessastaðaskans?▾
Yes, parking is available at the Bessastaðakirkja church, from where you can access the Álftanes coastal path leading to Bessastaðaskans.
Can I visit Bessastaðaskans year-round?▾
While generally accessible year-round, the coastal path leading to Bessastaðaskans may be closed during bird nesting season (typically late spring/early summer) to protect local wildlife. It's best to check local conditions before visiting.
What should I bring when visiting Bessastaðaskans?▾
Dress in layers for unpredictable Icelandic weather, including wind and potential rain or snow. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the coastal path. Don't forget your camera to capture the scenic views.
Is Bessastaðaskans suitable for children?▾
Yes, it's suitable for children who can enjoy a walk along the coastal path and exploring the historical mounds. The area is open, so supervision is advised, especially near the water.