Description
In January 1973, a volcanic fissure opened without warning on Heimaey and transformed the Westman Islands overnight. Homes disappeared beneath lava and ash, the harbour was threatened and almost the entire population was evacuated.
The museum tells this remarkable story through photographs, personal accounts, geology and the preserved remains of a house uncovered from the eruption deposits. The result is both intimate and dramatic—a human story set inside one of Iceland’s defining volcanic events.
A visit adds depth to the landscape outside. After seeing the exhibitions, Eldfell, the lava fields and the rebuilt town carry an entirely new meaning.
What is included
- Museum admission
- Access to the permanent volcano exhibitions
- Self-guided visit
What do I need to bring
- Booking voucher
- Comfortable footwear
- Camera or phone where photography is permitted
Good to know
Meeting point: Gerðisbraut 10, 900 Vestmannaeyjabær. Visit within the current opening hours and booking terms.
Open in Google Maps
- This is a self-guided museum visit.
- Check the current opening hours for your travel date.
- Children must follow the age category selected during booking.
Highlights
- The 1973 Eldfell eruption
- Excavated home beneath the ash
- Westman Islands evacuation story
- Volcanic geology and local resilience
- An ideal companion to exploring Heimaey
Eldheimar Volcano Museum Entry – Frequently Asked Questions
It explores the 1973 Eldfell eruption, the evacuation of Heimaey, the homes buried by ash and the island community’s remarkable recovery.
You might also like
Make the journey to Landmannalaugar easy with a comfortable one-way highland bus from Reykjavík, arriving ready to hike, bathe and...
A 10-hour small-group minibus tour from Reykjavík with Skógafoss, Vík, Reynisfjara, Sólheimajökull and Seljalandsfoss.