Hekla, Stratovolcano in Rangárþing ytra, Iceland
Hekla is a stratovolcano in Rangárþing ytra in southern Iceland that rises from the surrounding landscape with its long ridge. The fissure runs for several kilometers and holds multiple craters along its length, with rock ranging from dark basalt to lighter andesite.
The first recorded eruption took place in 1104 and covered large parts of Iceland with ash. Since then the volcano has erupted more than twenty times, with intervals between eruptions varying over the centuries.
The name Hekla comes from the Icelandic word for hood or cloak, as clouds often cover the summit. Hikers notice that the shape of the mountain changes appearance in different light conditions.
Visitors can find information about geological conditions and hiking routes at the Hekla Center at Leirubakki farm. Due to unpredictable activity, no one should attempt a visit without current safety information and proper equipment.
On clear days the slopes of the mountain reveal layers of differently colored lava and ash. The color shifts from reddish through gray to black tones depending on the chemical composition of the deposits.
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