Hellnahellir, a manmade cave located in South Iceland, is widely considered one of the most remarkable remnants in Iceland. The cave is around 200 square metres (215 sq.ft) in size and was first mentioned in written documents in the 14th century.
Irish monks called Papar who settled in Iceland shortly before the Vikings, are thought to have made the subterranean vault. Its name, Hellnahellir, translates to “the Cave of Caves” – the Icelandic word “hellir” means cave but is also the name of the farm where the phenomena is located.
The cave’s walls are covered in engravings and Páll Sigurjónsson, farmer on the farm Galtalækur, believes the dwellings were used by humans and animals alike.
“This is one of Iceland’s best kept secrets,” he said in an interview with Channel 2 News.
Access to the caves is prohibited unless in the company of landowners.
Hellnahellir, a manmade cave located in South Iceland, is widely considered one of the most remarkable remnants in Iceland. The cave is around 200 square metres (215 sq.ft) in size and was first mentioned in written documents in the 14th century.
Irish monks called Papar who settled in Iceland shortly before the Vikings, are thought to have made the subterranean vault. Its name, Hellnahellir, translates to “the Cave of Caves” – the Icelandic word “hellir” means cave but is also the name of the farm where the phenomena is located.
The cave’s walls are covered in engravings and Páll Sigurjónsson, farmer on the farm Galtalækur, believes the dwellings were used by humans and animals alike.
“This is one of Iceland’s best kept secrets,” he said in an interview with Channel 2 News.
Access to the caves is prohibited unless in the company of landowners.
