Dimmuborgir

Dimmuborgir. A place so mysterious it lent its name to one of the most enigmatic black metal bands, Dimmu Borgir!

Dimmuborgir is a lava field where the lava formations resemble pillars, figures, and sometimes structures or caves. These formations were created approximately 2300 years ago when lava flowed over a small lake. As the water underneath began to boil and steam burst through the molten rock, it formed hollow tubes and columns.

Dimmuborgir holds cultural significance in Icelandic folklore, often depicted as a connection to the underworld and associated with various legends. It is also a popular spot for hiking and exploring the region’s unique geology. Additionally, it has served as a filming location for several movies and TV series, including Game of Thrones (similarly to the nearby Grjótagjá cave).

You can find Dimmuborgir east of Lake Mývatn, not far from the Hverfjall crater, which is a notable landmark in the area. There is a large parking lot in front of Dimmuborgir, from where you can set off on foot into the lava labyrinth.