The First Settlers & Town Architecture

The first settlers of Akureyri, in the 10th century, were Helgi magri (Helgi the thin) and his wife, Þórunn Hyrna. Taking this path past their statues and following the streets named in their honour will give you a feel for modern-day Akureyri.

Starting once again from the Town Hall Square sans town hall, walk up the hill past the Municipal Library, to a hill where statues of the first settlers of Akureyri, Helgi magri and Þórunn Hyrna, look over Eyjafjörður. Fittingly, you walk back towards the town along Helgamagrastræti. At the end of the street is the Akureyri geothermal swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing swim.

Continue along Þórunnarstræti till you get to the Botanical Garden. This beautiful park is the northernmost botanic Garden in the world and contains several thousand plant species. When you leave the garden, pass the Akureyri school and walk atop the edge of the hill towards Akureyri church. On your way you'll pass the Akureyri Catholic church.

(Text from "Akureyri & The North Guide")