Dverghamrar, Basalt columns formation in Skaftárhreppur, Iceland
Dverghamrar is a basalt cliff formation in Skaftárhreppur, Iceland, displaying two distinct levels of naturally formed hexagonal columns with striking geometric patterns. The rock face extends across several hundred meters and reveals the internal structure of ancient lava flows.
These basalt columns formed during the Ice Age when lava flows cooled rapidly after contact with water, causing the basalt to contract into regular shapes. The quick cooling process created the hexagonal patterns visible today.
The name Dverghamrar means Dwarf Cliffs in Icelandic, reflecting local beliefs about supernatural beings from Norse mythology inhabiting these rock formations.
The site lies roughly 10 kilometers east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur along the Ring Road and offers convenient road access. A parking area allows visitors to explore the cliffs on foot at their own pace.
The formation displays both vertical and curved basalt columns in one location, showing different cooling patterns within the same geological structure. This variety of column shapes resulted from variations in cooling speed during the solidification process.
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