Iceland was likely first encountered by Irish monks as early as the 8th or 9th century, based on accounts and archaeological evidence. However, the first documented discovery by Norse explorers is attributed to Naddodd, who accidentally arrived on Iceland around 861 and named it "Snæland" (Snowland). Another explorer, Garðar Svavarsson, established that Iceland was an island and wintered there, while Hrafna-Flóki Vilgerðarson deliberately sought out Iceland and gave it its current name. The first permanent Norse settler was Ingólfur Arnarson, who settled with his family in Reykjavík around 874.
Key Figures and Timelines
- Greek explorer Pytheas described a northern land “Thule” around 325–330 B.C., which some speculate could be Iceland, though this is not confirmed.
- Irish monks (the Papar) may have lived in Iceland prior to Norse settlement, but left after Norse arrival.
- Norse explorers Naddodd and Garðar Svavarsson made the first documented visits in the 9th century, with Garðar confirming Iceland was an island.
- Ingólfur Arnarson is celebrated as the first permanent settler, arriving in 874 and founding Reykjavík.
Summary Table
Explorer/Settler| Date| Contribution
---|---|---
Pytheas (Greek)| ~330 B.C.| Described “Thule”/North
Irish monks (Papar)| 8th–9th cent.| Possible first visitors
Naddodd (Norse)| c. 861| First Norse discovery
Garðar Svavarsson (Norse)| 9th cent.| Confirmed island status
Ingólfur Arnarson (Norse)| 874| First permanent settlement
Iceland’s discovery is attributed to several explorers from different places and eras, but its permanent settlement began with Norse chieftains in the late 9th century.
