The North American and Eurasian plates meet in Thingvellir National Park, Iceland.
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Few places on Earth are as vividly illustrated by the powerful forces shaping our planet as Iceland's Thingvellir National Park.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site sits at the confluence of the North American and Eurasian plates and offers a unique glimpse into the dynamic nature of Earth's geological activity.
Visitors can walk through the dramatic Almanagja valley, a reminder of the tectonic forces that have constantly shaped Iceland's rugged terrain.
In addition to its geological importance, Þingvellir is also historically significant as the meeting place of Iceland's early decision-makers, adding cultural interest to one of Iceland's most striking landmarks.
Explore the continental rift
Almanagja is a famous canyon in Þingvellir National Park, which marks the boundary of the North American Plate. It is a key feature of the Mid-Atlantic Rift System, where the North American and Eurasian plates meet. Nowhere in Iceland is this geological phenomenon more visible than at Þingvellir.
Visitors can walk through the canyon, a visual reminder that the Earth is slowly but constantly moving. The canyon was formed when the North American Plate was pulled westward, demonstrating the dramatic effects of tectonic movements.
At several points in the park, you can see the cliffs that mark the edge of the continent, and trails wind between towering canyon walls, giving you the feeling of walking between two continents. The canyons vary in width, but in some points you can walk through them.
Oxalafoss waterfall in Iceland in winter.
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The highlight of the hike is the impressive Oxalafoss waterfall, easily accessible on foot. The beauty of this 66-foot-tall waterfall hides a dark past: the pool below the falls has a gruesome history as an execution site in the Middle Ages.
The views from the top of Mount Al Manajja, near the visitor's center, are spectacular, offering panoramic views of this unique rift valley.
The gap between the North American and Eurasian plates is widening by more than 1.5 inches each year. This constant movement has created many distinctive landforms in the park, including crystal-clear, spring-filled canyons and lava formations, the most famous of which is Silfra, a popular snorkeling and diving site.
Nikrasarja Canyon, also known as Peningaja (Money Valley), is a popular spot where visitors toss coins into the icy water and make wishes.
Historical significance
Beyond its geological importance, Þingvellir is an important historical site in Iceland: when Viking settlers arrived in the 10th century, they chose Þingvellir as the seat of their parliament, the Althing.
The unique geology of Þingvellir, including the high cliffs of Rågberg (Rock of Law), has created a natural amphitheatre perfect for public speaking.
At the Althing's annual meeting, an elected attorney general recited the laws of the country, while members of the assembly debated and decided on new laws, passed judgments, and resolved disputes.
The Logberg (Rock of the Law) in Thingvellir National Park, Iceland, on the site of the world's first parliament… (+).
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The Althing site contains fragments of turf and stone huts, and remains thought to be buried below ground and older than the 10th century.
This open-air parliament is the world's oldest parliamentary body, founded in 930 and meeting until 1798. Interpretation panels and guided tours tell the story of early Icelandic life and government.
Practical tips for visitors
Thingvellir National Park is easy to access, with well-maintained trails and facilities to welcome visitors. However, as one of Iceland's main tourist destinations, it does suffer from crowds – with over 5,000 visitors per day entering the park in high season, patience is sometimes required.
Part of Iceland's “Golden Circle” tourist route, Þingvellir is located about 28 miles northeast of the capital, Reykjavik. There is no admission fee to the park, but if you come by car there is a parking fee (about $7.50). Parking passes are valid for one day in all car parks.
If you don't have a car, consider taking a tour of Iceland's Golden Circle, a famous road trip that also includes must-see Icelandic attractions like Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir geothermal park.
This eight-hour tour from Arctic Adventures (from $91) includes all three highlights, plus the tiny geothermal town of Hveragerdi and Kerid crater lake. If you're pressed for time, Reykjavik Excursions offers a 6.5-hour tour for around $76.
Although bus tours like these limit the amount of time participants can spend in each location, they are an ideal way to experience the best of Iceland's natural beauty.
