Lomagnupur, the house of Járngrímur

by Gerry van Roosmalen

Lómagnúpur is an imposing, almost mythical mountain in southern Iceland, close to the ring road. Its steep basalt walls rise more than 700 metres from the surrounding sandy plains, like a lone watchtower defying time. The mountain is a landmark for travellers and a source of stories for Icelanders.

According to the *Njáls saga*, Lómagnúpur was once home to Járngrímur, one of Iceland's legendary landvættir guardian spirits. This colossal figure is said to still watch over the landscape, a dormant force in the rugged nature. Icelandic folk tales tell that he once appeared to King Harald Blauwtand of Denmark, who had plans to invade Iceland. The sight of this giant protector made the king abandon his attack, and since then Lómagnúpur has featured on the Icelandic coat of arms, along with the other landvættir.

The mountain seems to change shape with every change of weather. In the morning mist, it hovers above the lava field like a ghostly shadow. At sunset, its rock face glows like a beacon of fire and stone. When storm clouds gather, it seems to carry the weight of the sky. Those who travel past it feel the grandeur and mystery of this place-a reminder of ancient stories, and a silent witness to the power of nature.