Day 9 - Reykjavik 1 September

After experiencing rough seas during the night, the seas continued to provide some entertainment on board with dishes and trolleys flying everywhere in the buffet, people hanging on to whatever they could lay their hands on to get from A to B and the inevitable placing of sick bags on the stairways.

We eventually sighted land again as we neared our afternoon port arrival and the seas abated.

The weather in Reykjavik changed from rain to sunshine in minutes. So it was with this in mind our group set out for a walking tour of the city. Our local guide Marteinn, was very knowledgeable and entertaining.

We first visited inside the Harpa Concert Hall which, as with many such big, expensive projects in any city, is somewhat controversial. The beautiful glass building represents the basalt columns and northern lights two major features of the natural world of this land of fire and ice.

We learned about Ingolfur Arnarson, recorded as the first permanent settler of the city. He brought with him his high seat posts which on arrival he threw overboard and declared that wherever they landed would be the place he would settle. He named the town Reykjavik (Smoke Cove), on account of the steam rising from area's hot springs. The symbol of the city represents those two high seat posts and the sea.

The rain came and went but we were guided to various places where we could shelter while Marteinn continued with the history of this endearing city.

The famous cathedral in Reykjavik. It is possible to walk to the top of the tower for a fine view over the city

The oldest building in the city has had many identities, currently it's part of the high school

Harpa Opera House

A small garden outside the parliament building

The parliament building in Reykjavik

The elves have been at work in this small park. They live in the stone just to my right!

The oldest building in Reykjavik across the water from our ship. It dates back to the 1700s

This structure houses a cauldron where Yoko Ono comes every year on the anniversary of John Lennon's death to light a flame.

If you enlarge the picture you will see more clearly the city symbol