Iceland is a country known for its stunning natural beauty, but it's also home to a unique architectural tradition that has been around for centuries: turf houses.
These structures, made from a combination of turf and stone, were once the most common type of housing in Iceland and were vital for survival in the harsh, cold climate.
Icelandic turf houses, also known as sod houses, are traditional houses that were constructed using turf and other natural materials. The walls of the house were made from layers of turf, while the roof was made from wooden beams and covered with a layer of turf. The walls were often reinforced with a layer of stone or rocks, which helped to keep the house warm and insulated during the long, cold winters.
The design of the turf houses varied depending on the region and the resources available. Some houses were built into the ground, while others were built above ground. The houses were often small, with only one or two rooms, and were heated by a central hearth or stove.
Turf houses have been around in Iceland for over a thousand years, dating back to the time of the first Viking settlers in the 9th century. The harsh climate of Iceland made it difficult to grow crops and raise livestock, and the early settlers had to find a way to survive in these conditions.
Turf houses were an ideal solution as they were easy to construct using materials that were readily available. The houses were also well-insulated and could withstand harsh weather conditions. Over time, turf houses became the most common type of housing in Iceland, and they were used until the 20th century.
In the 19th century, there was a shift towards more modern housing in Iceland, and many turf houses were abandoned. However, in recent years, there has been renewed interest in this traditional architectural style, and many of the abandoned turf houses have been restored and preserved as cultural landmarks.
There are several advantages to building a turf house, which is why they have been a popular form of housing in Iceland for centuries. Some of the advantages include:
1. Natural insulation:
The thick layer of turf used in the construction of the house provides excellent insulation, keeping the house warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
2. Sustainable:
The use of natural materials makes turf houses a sustainable option for housing. The turf can be easily replaced, and the houses can be built using materials that are readily available in the local environment.
3. Low maintenance:
Turf houses are low maintenance as they don't require regular painting or upkeep like wooden houses. The turf also helps to protect the house from the elements, reducing the need for repairs.
4. Fire-resistant:
The use of turf as a building material makes the house resistant to fire, which is an important consideration in a country like Iceland where there are frequent volcanic eruptions.
Preserving turf houses is an important part of Icelandic culture. Many of the abandoned turf houses have been restored and are now open to visitors, providing a glimpse into Iceland's unique architectural history.
The Icelandic government has also taken steps to protect these historic buildings. In 2011, UNESCO added the turf houses of Iceland to its World Heritage List, recognizing the cultural significance of these structures.
Icelandic turf houses are a unique and sustainable architectural tradition that has stood the test of time. These houses were vital for survival in Iceland's harsh climate and have played an important role in Icelandic culture for centuries.
