Hekla, Iceland

Landmark Name: Hekla
Type: Indirectly Related Landmarks, Natural feature
Association: Round Table Iceland
Location: South of Iceland (Google Maps🔗)

Hekla is an active stratovolcano located in the south of Iceland, within the country’s main volcanic belt. Rising to approximately 1,491 metres (4,892 ft) above sea level, it is one of Iceland’s most prominent and active volcanoes. Known in earlier centuries as the “Gateway to Hell,” Hekla has a long and dramatic eruptive history that has shaped both the Icelandic landscape and local mythology.

Mount Hekla holds a place of honour in the heraldic identity of Round Table Iceland. Its prominent depiction in the association’s rondel commemorates the eruption that occurred during the organization’s founding period in 1970. The volcano is known as the “Queen of Icelandic Volcanoes”, thus, the rondel omits the traditional “King” figure found in most Round Table rondels. Instead, the volcano is crowned by four stylized ocean waves, symbolizing Iceland’s seafaring heritage.

Geological Profile

Hekla is part of a volcanic system around 40 kilometres (25 mi) long, with the main volcanic ridge extending northeast–southwest. Unlike many stratovolcanoes that erupt from a single summit crater, Hekla often erupts along fissures that open along its ridge. Its eruptions are known for producing large volumes of tephra, lava flows, and ash deposits that can reach far beyond Iceland.

Eruptive History

Documented eruptions of Hekla date back to 1104 CE, when a powerful explosive event devastated surrounding settlements. Over 20 eruptions have been recorded since, with varying levels of intensity. Major eruptions occurred in 1300, 1389, 1510, 1597, 1845, 1947–1948, 1970, 1980–1981, 1991, and 2000. The volcano remains closely monitored due to its potential for sudden and powerful activity.

The 1970 eruption, which began on 5 May 1970 and lasted for two months, coincided with the formation of Round Table Iceland, later influencing the design of the association’s rondel. The footage below shows the imagery that would have inspired the rondel.

Cultural and Historic Significance

Throughout history, Hekla has been a source of both fear and fascination. Medieval Europeans believed it to be an entrance to the underworld, while Icelandic folklore often depicts the volcano as a mystical and ominous symbol. Today, Hekla is a celebrated natural landmark, drawing interest from volcanologists, adventurers, and tourists alike.