Iceland review - 2014, Page 105

ICELAND REVIEW 103
Since 1973, the story of Heimaey, the only inhabited island of
the Vestmannaeyjar (‘Westman Islands’) archipelago, has cap-
tivated the world. Thousands have visited the island to catch a
glimpse of the volcano Eldfell, the eerie 1970s ‘Pompeii,’ and the
destruction it caused. These adventurous explorers gave locals the
idea of turning their tragedy into an educational attraction. After
years of planning, digging, preserving and exploring, the Eldhei-
mar – Pompeii of the North visitor center, opened this spring.
As you approach the brightly-colored roofs sticking up through
the warm black ground, you will start to notice other details: like
the fact that you can see right into some of the buildings. Some
of the homes remain as they were when their families ran for their
lives. Plates on the table, clock on the wall, dry sink with tap still in
the on position. It is spooky and fascinating at the same time. The
new on-site museum adds a whole new level to the experience
and will guide you through the entire eruption in a multimedia
exhibition from a scientific, and also a deeply personal, viewpoint.
Eldheimar also includes an information center about Surtsey.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the archipelago’s youngest
and southernmost island, created in an underwater eruption 1963-
1967. It has since been preserved as a living laboratory.
The museum, which is open daily, is yet another reason to visit
the remarkable Vestmannaeyjar. Easily accessible year-round by air
and ferry, the islands make for an enjoyable day tour, but with all
the necessary comforts and services on Heimaey, you might be
tempted to stay longer.
eldheimar.is
eldHeimar – neW and unique
volCaniC exHiBiTion
Travel
The 1973 Eldfell volcanic eruption changed life on Heimaey forever. The new must-see
eldheimar – Pompeii of the north visitor center, reveals houses that were buried in ash.