Almannagjá is one of Iceland’s most famous rift
formations and is located within
Þingvellir National Park.
The gorge forms part of the boundary between the North American and
Eurasian tectonic plates and is a striking example of the geology
that makes Þingvellir unique on a global scale.
The river
Öxará
flows through Almannagjá, cascading into the gorge at Öxarárfoss
before continuing along its floor and eventually reaching
Þingvallavatn.
The combination of water, lava, and tectonic movement creates a
dramatic and memorable landscape.
Almannagjá also played an important role in the history of Þingvellir.
The gorge formed part of the assembly area of the Alþingi during the
Commonwealth period and lies close to
Lögberg,
where laws were proclaimed and major decisions were made.
Today, Almannagjá is one of the most popular walking routes in
Þingvellir National Park, allowing visitors to walk directly between
two continental plates.
The gorge is closely connected to other notable rifts in the area,
including
Hrafnagjá,
and forms an essential part of the overall Þingvellir landscape.
Combining geology, history, and natural beauty, Almannagjá is an
unmissable stop for anyone visiting
Þingvellir.