Based on the excavated remains of Stöng, that were buried under volcanic tephra in the 11th century, the farm provides insight into early Icelandic settlement, traditional turf-house construction, and rural life during the Commonwealth period.
Set against a backdrop of volcanic landscapes and open river valleys, the site offers visitors a tangible connection to Iceland’s early history and the challenges faced by its first settlers.
- GPS Coordinates:
- 64.1203° N, 19.8193° W
- Distance from Reykjavík
- 123 km (76 miles)
- Best time to visit
- May - September
What is the Commonwealth Farm?
The Commonwealth Farm is a full-scale reconstruction of a Viking-age longhouse and associated buildings, created using archaeological evidence from the nearby Stöng excavation. While the original farm at Stöng was abandoned following a volcanic eruption in 1104, the reconstructed site allows visitors to experience the layout and building techniques of early Icelandic farms in a natural setting.
The buildings are constructed primarily from turf and stone, reflecting materials that were widely used in medieval Iceland due to limited access to timber.
A window into early Icelandic life
Visiting the Commonwealth Farm offers a deeper understanding of daily life during Iceland’s settlement period. The living exhibition illustrates how families lived, worked, and adapted to a harsh environment shaped by volcanic activity, climate, and isolation. Interpretive displays and reconstructed interiors help bring the Viking Age to life in an accessible and educational way.
Why visit the Commonwealth Farm
The Commonwealth Farm offers:
- A reconstructed Viking-era farm based on archaeological evidence
- Insight into Iceland’s Commonwealth period (10th–13th centuries)
- Traditional turf-house architecture in a scenic valley setting
- An easy cultural stop near major natural attractions
- A quieter alternative to larger historical museums
It pairs well with visits to nearby waterfalls such as Háifoss and Hjálparfoss, making it a natural cultural complement to outdoor exploration in the Þjórsárdalur area.
All about the Commonwealth Farm
No. The Commonwealth Farm is a reconstructed site located near Stöng, but it is separate from the original archaeological ruins. The reconstruction is based on findings from Stöng.
Most visitors spend around 30–45 minutes exploring the buildings and displays at their own pace.
Yes. An entrance fee applies, and payment is made on site. Prices may vary by season.
Yes. The Commonwealth Farm is suitable for families and offers an educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Because it is a popular backdrop and filming location. You may have seen it in a little show called Game of Thrones, in a very gruesome scene when Olly’s village is attacked by Wildlings.
Related tours
- Spring Offer
Háifoss, Viking Farm & Highland Waterfalls Tour
Step into the upside down: Iceland’s most otherworldly landscapes. Discover one of Iceland’s most dramatic hidden regions on this Háifoss and Þjórsárdalur tour from Reykjavik. Travel into the Icelandic Highlands to visit Háifoss, one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, explore the unique twin falls of Hjálparfoss, and step into Viking history at the reconstructed Commonwealth farm (Þjóðveldisbærinn). This guided day tour is ideal for travellers looking to experience Iceland’s highland landscapes, volcanic valleys, and lesser-visited natural attractions beyond the Golden Circle.