Pingvellir Valley

This region is historically important to Iceland, and its citizens hold it dear to their hearts. It was here that the first council of all the chieftains was held over 1000 years ago: the Alpingi. Even today, the parliament of Iceland is called the Alpingi. The region is right on the border where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet and separate. In these photos, you'll see crevices that give evidence to the ongoing divergence. All along this region are geothermal sites, including hot springs and geysers, as well as waterfalls. The awe-inspiring Gullfoss must be seen in person to fully appreciate. Truly worth the trip itself.