The legendary structure under the midnight sun; A modern version of Stonehenge in Iceland

In one of the most remote parts of the world, the small fishing village of “Raufarhöfn” (Raufarhöfn) in the northernmost part of Iceland, there is a tall and mysterious stone building that many call the “Stonehenge of the new age”. The structure is a massive sundial that not only traps the sun’s rays, but also has deep roots in Norse beliefs and Viking mythology. (Suzanne Lovellinc)

Photographer: Unknown / Suzanne Lovellinc

The main idea of ​​this building was inspired by the epic poem “Völuspá”, one of the most famous parts of the Edda. This poem narrates the story of the beginning and end of the world, the creation of the first man and woman, as well as mythological characters, including 72 dwarfs, who symbolize the different seasons of the world. Each of these 72 dwarves is represented on the polar hinge by a separate stone block with their name engraved on it.

The memory of the Arctic Henge is the brainchild of Erlingur Thoroddsen, who dreamed of experiencing boundless horizons and the eternal sun. His initial designs were formed in 1998, and six years later, in 2004, in collaboration with project designer Haukur Halldórsson, the vision, inspired by local culture and mythology, was finalized. Halderson played a key role in the design of the building; In such a way that it interacts perfectly with the natural and unique lighting of Iceland.

Photographer: Unknown / Suzanne Lovellinc

The polar henge is a circle with a diameter of approximately 50 meters, which has gates 6 meters high facing the main directions. In the center of this circle, a 10-meter-high column is placed on four bases, on top of which a cut glass prism separates the sunlight into primary colors. Its purpose is to capture the sun’s rays, cast shadows at well-defined points, and trap light through carefully aligned gates.

Photographer: Unknown / Suzanne Lovellinc

Inside the arctic circle, visitors can walk on the “path of the dwarfs”; Where the stone blocks are. Also, a space called “Hall of Rays” evokes the feeling of an altar among tall columns. Meanwhile, a single seat known as the “Kingdom of the Sun” is a great place to capture memorable images. By providing unique views of the phenomenon of the midnight sun, Henge Polar creates an unforgettable experience for every traveler who travels to this corner of the world.

Photographer: Unknown / Suzanne Lovellinc

If you had the chance to travel to Iceland, would you visit the amazing Arctic Henge? Tell me about your point of view.

Cover photo source: Suzanne Lovellinc Photographer: Unknown