Iceland: Viking Excavation (IFR)

Location: Sölvanes, Iceland

Session Dates: June 2 – July 4, 2026

Application Deadline: March 1, 2026

Deadline Type: Rolling

Website: https://ifrglobal.org/program/iceland-viking-excavation/

Program Type:
Field School

RPA Certified:
No

Affiliation:
Institute for Field Research (IFR)

Project Director:
Dr. Brenda Prehal, Dr. George Hambrecht

Project Description:

Discover the realities of Viking Age life (and death) through an archaeology field school in northern Iceland. Set amongst the dramatic landscapes of Skagafjörður, you will take part in excavating a rare burial mound and centuries-old midden at the Viking Age site of Reynistaður, one of the region’s oldest known farms. This summer archaeology program offers practical excavation experience as well as lab-based training in zooarchaeology, tephrachronology, and environmental archaeology and is perfect for anyone looking for an up-close introduction to Norse history. Working alongside an international team of researchers, you will explore how early Icelanders lived, adapted to harsh northern climates, and navigated the cultural shift from paganism to Christianity.

Field school highlights:

• Excavate one of Iceland’s oldest continuously occupied farms, surrounded by the remote and rugged landscape that brings Viking archaeology to life.
• Develop excavation, lab, and digital recording skills using GIS, stratigraphy, and single-context methods.
• Visit historic sites and cultural landmarks across northern Iceland, from the country’s iconic turf houses to its geothermal springs.

Period(s) of Occupation: Icelandic Viking Age through to the 19th century

Project Size: 1-24 participants

Minimum Length of Stay for Volunteers: Students are expected to stay the full length of the program.

Minimum Age: 18

Experience Required: None

Room and Board Arrangements:
You’ll stay in shared rooms at a real working sheep farm! You’ll have access to shared common spaces that inlcude a living room, kitchen, and laundry. Room size will vary based on program enrollment. Meals: Student and project staff will work together to make breakfast and dinner on a rotating schedule. Everyone will make their own lunch from supplied groceries. Icelandic meals are usually substantial with lots of bread, dairy, fruit, and protein, including both meat and fish. While vegetarian meals can be provided, other special diets like veganism, strict kosher, or halal may be harder to accommodate. Gluten-free and dairy-free products are readily available at the local grocery store, but the variety in various products is extremely limited.

Academic Credit:
8 semester (12 quarter) – anticipated