iðnfræði

Idnfræði is the Icelandic word for "archaeology." It is the study of past human activity through the recovery and analysis of material culture. Archaeological research in Iceland began in the late 19th century and has since uncovered a wealth of information about the island's settlement, Viking Age society, medieval life, and later periods.

Key archaeological sites in Iceland include Viking Age farmsteads, such as those found at Stöng and Hvolsvöllur, which provide insights into early Icelandic architecture and daily life. Medieval churches and monasteries have also been excavated, revealing details about religious practices and social structures. More recent excavations have focused on industrial sites and urban areas, shedding light on Iceland's development into a modern nation.

The Icelandic Institute of Archaeology (Þjóðminjasafn Íslands) plays a central role in archaeological research, preservation, and public outreach. Ongoing archaeological work continues to refine our understanding of Iceland's rich history, from its initial settlement by Norse explorers to its complex societal evolution. The study of idnfræði is crucial for piecing together the narrative of Iceland's past and its unique cultural heritage.