The Statue of Leif Eiriksson

Welcome to the elevated heart of Reykjavik. As you ascend the paved slopes of the Skolavorduhaed hill, the brisk Icelandic wind greets you, carrying the unmistakable scent of the nearby sea. …

Please walk directly to the front of the massive stone pedestal upon which the bronze figure stands. Reach out and run your hand along the rough, cold texture of the granite base. …

Now, please step around to the left side of the monument. From this specific vantage point, pay close attention to the way the bronze figure interacts with the structural elements around his feet. …

Please make your way completely behind the statue, looking up at the broad, imposing back of Leifr Eiriksson. Take a moment to closely study the flowing cape and the sturdy, detailed armor carefully depicted by the sculptor. …

Let us continue our journey around the monument by pausing here on the right side. Please look closely up at Leifr’s hands. …

Please step slightly forward toward the front-right of the statue so you can clearly see Leifr’s other hand, which firmly grips a formidable Viking battle axe. If the cross upon his chest represents the new, civilized European…

We have finally arrived back at the very front of the statue. Stand directly near the base and look straight up into Leifr Eiriksson’s face. …

Take a moment to look completely away from the statue and down at your feet, at the intricately laid stones that make up the expansive plaza surrounding the monument. As you walk back and forth across this very solid ground,…

Please walk slowly back toward the very outer edge of the plaza, giving yourself a wide, completely unobstructed view of the entire Leifr Eiriksson monument set majestically against the dramatic, soaring architecture of…