If you’re curious about who was husavik icelandsettled by, you’re asking about one of the earliest chapters in Iceland’s colonization. According to various sources—including the medieval Icelandic manuscript called Landnámabók—Húsavík on Iceland’s northern coast holds a prominent place in the story of the island’s first human inhabitants. Renowned today for its whale-watching opportunities and scenic beauty, Húsavík’s past is tied to daring explorers, accidental discoveries, and enduring Viking legends.
The Settlement of Húsavík – Legend vs. Historical Fact
Early Discovery by Garðar Svavarsson
- Garðar Svavarsson, a Swedish Viking, is widely credited with being one of the first Norse explorers to reach Iceland (around AD 860–870).
- He is said to have circumnavigated the island and confirmed it was, indeed, a separate landmass—naming it Garðarshólmi (“Garðar’s Isle”).
The Role of Náttfari
- Náttfari, one of Garðar’s crew members, is believed to have stayed behind when Garðar eventually departed.
- According to the Landnámabók, Náttfari settled in the area we now know as Húsavík with two slaves, establishing one of the earliest permanent habitations in Iceland.
A Deeply Rooted Viking Legacy
- Over time, more settlers arrived, blending Norse traditions with the island’s rugged landscape.
- Húsavík evolved into a small but strategic site for fishing, trade, and, in the modern era, tourism—particularly whale watching.
Why Is Húsavík Historically Significant?
- One of Iceland’s Oldest Settlements
- Húsavík may rival other famous Viking-era settlements in age, marking a key point in the story of Iceland’s inhabitation.
- Rich Cultural Heritage
- Centuries of isolation, folklore, and natural wonders have shaped a local culture distinct from the rest of Iceland.
- Landnámabók References
- Written in the 12th and 13th centuries, this Icelandic manuscript records the country’s early settlement history, making Húsavík’s mention highly significant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Who is traditionally credited with establishing Húsavík?
A: While Swedish Viking Garðar Svavarsson discovered the area, many believe it was Náttfari, one of his crew members, who stayed behind and set up the first permanent settlement. - Q: When did Vikings first arrive in Húsavík?
A: Historical accounts place Garðar’s exploration around AD 860–870. The exact dates vary in different sources, but this range is widely accepted. - Q: Is Húsavík the oldest settlement in Iceland?
A: It’s among the earliest, competing in legend with Reykjavík and other notable settlements. Exact dating can be tricky, but Landnámabók strongly suggests Húsavík’s early foundation. - Q: What does “Húsavík” mean in Icelandic?
A: Translating roughly to “Bay of Houses,” it may reference the early dwellings established in the area by Náttfari and subsequent settlers. - Q: Where can I learn more about Húsavík’s history?
A: Local museums (such as the Húsavík Museum) and websites like Visit Húsavík and Guide to Iceland provide detailed historical contexts, artifacts, and genealogical records.
