A few kilometres south of Reykjahlid, a tourist centre on Lake Myvatn, is one of the most unique and fascinating landscapes in Iceland. The Dimmuborgir, or, “dark castles”, are the impressive result of the volcanic past of this unique island set amid the North Atlantic. The remarkable lava formations of Dimmuborgir originated around two thousand three hundred years ago.

The area of lava that had previously hardened remained as tall sections of lava with high walls that contained large fissures and holes. The “castles” of Dimmuborgir have created a good deal of interest. According to various legends these “stone buildings” are the home of several incredible beings. Indeed, it is not surprising that the Icelanders once believed that numerous trolls lived here as the lava sculptures had taken on such fascinating forms.

The lava landscape of Dimmuborgir that extends for several square kilometres is unique in the world. It is an impressive reminder of Iceland’s volcanic origins.