Reykjavik -- Lorraine Smith

 I am a traveller. I enjoy visiting different countries. By far the most interesting place I’ve been is Iceland. I visited in February 2019. Arriving in the cold and dark I wasn’t sure what to expect. I found friendly people and lots to see and photograph. This is the Hallsgrimskirksja right in the centre of Reykjavik. A beautiful church behind the statue of Lief Erikkson. 

Inside it is a beautiful place of worship with high ceilings and an organ. Light and airy a place of real reflection. The first sight of the church is awe inspiring it is a remarkable building. It is back lit at night and stands out as you arrive in the city. I am a lover of history and Reykjavik has history round every corner. People are friendly and will talk to you about everything  they know.

 

 I felt inspired when I was there and wanted to write more. Icelandic folklore is rich with stories and fairy tales especially. In Icelandic fairy tales fairy folk are huge,  gigantic creatures. Not at all like the fairies on the tales of  other countries. I bought many books and found out many fascinating things; for instance Iceland publishes more books per capita than any other nation on Earth. And its capital, Reykjavik, is the world’s first non-native English speaking UNESCO City of Literature. Iceland has a rich literary tradition dating back as far as the first settlement 1100 years ago. The 12th century sagas,which  are rich tales  of heroism, family feuds and adventures  have inspired many authors  and stories such as Lord of the Rings. I am also signed up for the Icelandic writing retreat in April 2022. I can’t wait to return to enjoy the landscapes and the people.