HERITAGE & RESERACH
THE CAVES OF HELLA
Unveiling Iceland's ancient secrets
UNVEILING ICELAND'S ANCIENT SECRETS
Located on the land of Ægissíða, near Hella on Iceland’s South Coast, the Caves of Hella are a remarkable and mysterious historical site. Man-made caves have been found in many places across South Iceland, but an unusually large number are located at Ægissíða, where twelve caves have been discovered. The caves were carved into sandstone formed from windblown sand and glacial sediments. Over a long period of time, the sand compacted and cemented together, forming solid sandstone.
The caves vary in size and shape and have been used for various purposes over the centuries. They were often more solid and durable than the traditional turf-and-stone buildings of the time. Two of the caves at Ægissíða, Fjóshellir (Cowshed cave) and Hlöðuhellir (Barn cave), are among the largest man-made caves discovered in Iceland.
The caves vary in how well they have stood the test of time. While the caves were in use, they were carefully maintained. Today, however, many caves in Iceland are in poor condition and at risk of further deterioration. The strength of the rock, the shape and thickness of the roof and walls, and the way entrances and ventilation shafts were constructed all play an important role. When caves are left exposed to the elements, frost, moisture, and wind erosion can cause significant damage and even lead to collapse. Well-constructed caves, however, can last for centuries when properly finished and protected from the elements.
The origins of the Caves of Hella are shrouded in mystery. Some historians have speculated that they predate the Norse settlement of Iceland. Could these caves have been created by ancient Celts? Were they used for worship or ritual purposes? For centuries, these questions have intrigued scholars and visitors alike. Among the fascinating features of the Caves of Hella are ancient crosses, intricate wall carvings, ledges, chimneys and carved stone seats. These remarkable relics are still visible today, offering a unique glimpse into the lives and beliefs of those who once used the caves. All the caves at Ægissíða, the Caves of Hella, are protected heritage sites and listed monuments.
THE HERITAGE OF CAVES OF HELLA
Our family has been taking care of the caves at our farm, Ægissíða, for nearly 200 years. By the end of 2019, we had restored four of the twelve caves at the farm and opened them for visitors. In 2024, we started excavating the fifth cave, where visitors can now observe archaeological remains. The family is committed to restoring the caves to their former glory and keeping their history alive. We share stories passed down through generations about the mysterious caves and life in Iceland before the arrival of the Viking settlers.
The caves are man-made, but no one knows exactly when they were originally constructed. Some sources indicate that they were made by Celts who inhabited Iceland before the official Norse settlement of Iceland in the late 9th century. Throughout history, the caves have been used as dwellings, sheep sheds, and storage spaces. After World War II, Icelanders began building houses from concrete, and traditional turf houses and the caves gradually fell out of use.
The restoration project is carried out under the supervision of the Cultural Heritage Agency of Iceland. The main aim is to continue restoring the caves and preserve the ancient remains while opening more of the caves to the public.
Excavation in Hrútshellir (Rams cave)
We continue to uncover new and exciting discoveries in the caves. Excavations in Hrútshellir in 2024 revealed a beautiful paved floor covering half of the cave, as well as a paved area at the entrance. Paved floors have not been found in any of the other caves at Ægissíða. The excavation also revealed interesting structures in the middle of the cave. The cave is still under investigation, and there is much more to learn about its history and purpose.
All excavation and conservation work is carried out in collaboration with Uggi Ævarsson, the Heritage Conservator for South Iceland, and the Cultural Heritage Agency of Iceland. We welcome ideas and hypotheses about the structures and what they may have been used for. Visitors can look into Hrútshellir and see part of the structures and the beautifully preserved floor for themselves.
Will American Scientists Solve the Mystery
of the Caves at Hella?
A team of American scientists is currently working to unravel the mystery of our caves. The research team is led by Professor Laura Haynes, a geologist, and Professor Elizabeth Lastra, a medieval art historian. Using groundbreaking technology and innovative research methods, they are working to determine the age of the caves and investigate their role in the settlement of Iceland.
Read more about their research and innovative methods in an article published by Stuck in Iceland.