A photograph of the volcanic eruption on Heimaey, Westman Islands taken by Will Perry on 26 January 1973.

Reykjavík Museum of Photography

This year marks half a century since a volcanic eruption occurred on Heimaey, the largest island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, off the south coast of Iceland. 

The eruption began on the night of January 23, 1973, and is considered one of the most significant news events in Iceland's modern history. 

Over 4,000 residents had to leave their homes quickly, and most of them were brought ashore by fishing boats. 

During the eruption, which lasted for over five months, almost 400 houses or buildings were destroyed, and one person died from carbon dioxide poisoning.

Westman Islands Volcanic Eruption 1973

An exhibit of a few selected photos from the eruption in the Vestman Islands on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the outbreak. All the pictures come from the museum collection.

West­man Is­lands Vol­canic Erup­tion 1973

An exhibit of a few selected photos from the eruption in the Vestman Islands on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the outbreak. All the pictures come from the museum collection.

Westman Islands Volcanic Eruption 1973