Dimmuborgir is a large area of unusually shaped lava formations east of Lake Myvatn in North Iceland. It formed about 2,300 years ago from a collapsed lava lake, and its name means dark castles or dark forts.
What and where Dimmuborgir is
Dimmuborgir sits east of Lake Myvatn in North Iceland. It is known for a large area of unusually shaped lava formations, and it makes an easy stop alongside the nearby lava-warmed cave at Grjotagja and the steaming ground at Namafjall.
The dark castles
The name Dimmuborgir means dark castles or dark forts. Some of the hollow chambers in the lava are large enough to walk into, which is where the castles name comes from.
How the lava pillars formed
Dimmuborgir formed from a collapsed lava lake about 2,300 years ago. Steam rising through the lava built hollow pillars, and when the surface later drained away, the pillars were left standing.
Folklore and the Yule Lads
In Icelandic folklore, Dimmuborgir is said to be home to the Yule Lads, mischievous figures tied to Icelandic Christmas traditions.
Seeing Dimmuborgir in North Iceland
If you want to compare options for the area, see North Iceland tours.
Allow time for the road
Check the Driving Distance Calculator when deciding how Dimmuborgir: lava field by Lake Myvatn belongs in the rest of your itinerary.
