When was iceland discovered?

By HotBotUpdated: September 20, 2024

Answer

Early References and Myths

The discovery of Iceland is shrouded in a blend of myth, legend, and historical documentation. Ancient texts suggest that seafaring people may have stumbled upon the island long before it was officially recorded. The Greek explorer Pytheas of Massalia, who lived around 300 BCE, wrote about a land he called "Thule," which some historians speculate could be Iceland, though this is hotly debated.

The Arrival of the Irish Monks

One of the earliest substantiated claims of human presence in Iceland comes from the Irish monks known as Papar. These monks are believed to have traveled to Iceland around the 8th century, seeking solitude for their religious practices. The Icelandic sagas and other historical records describe the Papar as having been present on the island before the arrival of the Norse settlers. Artifacts and place names in Iceland suggest their brief but significant presence.

The Norse Discovery

The most widely accepted account of the discovery of Iceland dates back to the late 9th century. According to the Icelandic sagas, particularly the "Landnámabók" (The Book of Settlements), the Norse chieftain Naddoddur was blown off course while sailing from Norway to the Faroe Islands around 860 CE. He is credited as one of the first Norsemen to sight Iceland, naming it "Snæland" or "Snowland."

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Gardar Svavarsson

Following Naddoddur's accidental discovery, the Swedish Viking Gardar Svavarsson set out to explore the island further. Around 870 CE, he circumnavigated Iceland, proving it to be an island. He spent a winter there and was impressed by its potential for settlement. Gardar named the island "Gardarsholmur" (Gardar's Isle) and his reports prompted further interest among the Norsemen.

Flóki Vilgerðarson: The First Intentional Settler

The next significant figure in the discovery and settlement of Iceland is Flóki Vilgerðarson, a Norwegian Viking. Around 874 CE, he led an expedition with the specific intention of settling in Iceland. His journey is well-documented in the sagas, which recount how he released three ravens to guide his ship to land, earning him the nickname "Raven-Flóki."

Upon reaching Iceland, Flóki and his crew endured a harsh winter, which led to the island being named "Ísland" (Iceland). Despite their initial hardships, Flóki’s expedition paved the way for future settlers.

Ingólfur Arnarson: The First Permanent Settler

While Flóki Vilgerðarson's expedition was crucial, it was Ingólfur Arnarson who is traditionally considered the first permanent settler of Iceland. According to the sagas, Ingólfur set sail from Norway around 874 CE, guided by the gods and his belief in a new land where he could establish a new life.

Ingólfur is said to have thrown his high seat pillars (a symbol of authority) overboard and vowed to settle wherever they washed ashore. He eventually landed in what is now Reykjavik, where he established his homestead. This marked the beginning of a more sustained and organized Norse settlement in Iceland.

Historical and Archaeological Evidence

While the sagas provide a narrative of Iceland's discovery, archaeological evidence has also played a crucial role in corroborating these stories. Excavations in various parts of Iceland have uncovered Norse artifacts dating back to the late 9th and early 10th centuries. These finds include remnants of longhouses, tools, and other everyday items that provide insight into the lives of the early settlers.

Environmental Impact and Settlement Patterns

The arrival of the Norse settlers had a profound impact on Iceland's environment and settlement patterns. The settlers brought with them livestock, such as sheep, cattle, and horses, which significantly altered the island's ecosystem. The introduction of these animals, along with deforestation for building materials and fuel, led to soil erosion and changes in vegetation.

The Norse settlers established various farms and settlements, primarily along the coast and in fertile valleys. These early communities were small and isolated, relying heavily on fishing, farming, and animal husbandry for sustenance.

Iceland in the Medieval Period

Following the initial settlement, Iceland developed a unique social and political structure. The early settlers established a system of chieftaincies, known as "goðar," which later evolved into the Althing, one of the world's oldest parliamentary institutions, founded around 930 CE. The Althing served as a forum for resolving disputes, making laws, and administering justice.

During the medieval period, Iceland remained relatively isolated from the rest of Europe. However, it maintained trade links with Norway and other parts of the Nordic world. The island's economy was primarily based on agriculture, fishing, and the export of goods such as wool and dried fish.

Rarely Known Details

One lesser-known aspect of Iceland's discovery is the role of women in the settlement process. While the sagas often focus on the exploits of male explorers, women also played a crucial role in establishing and maintaining early Icelandic communities. Archaeological evidence suggests that women were involved in farming, weaving, and other essential activities that contributed to the survival and success of the settlements.

Another intriguing detail is the impact of volcanic activity on the early settlers. Iceland's volcanic landscape posed both challenges and opportunities for the Norse settlers. While volcanic eruptions could devastate farmland and settlements, the geothermal activity also provided natural hot springs, which the settlers used for bathing and washing.

The discovery of Iceland is a complex and multifaceted story that blends myth, legend, and historical fact. From the early presence of Irish monks to the arrival of Norse explorers and settlers, each phase of discovery and settlement contributed to the rich tapestry of Iceland's history. The sagas, archaeological evidence, and rarely known details all offer valuable insights into the island's past, allowing us to appreciate the resilience and ingenuity of those who first called Iceland home.