Kirkjubaer II Camp Site

Kirkjubaer II Camp Site

Kirkjubaejarklaustur, Iceland

Reviewed July 4th, 2005

In 1783, Kirkjubaejarklaustur experienced one of Europe's most devastating volcanic eruptions. As the 2,684 ft. Mount Laki spewed out an ever-encroaching lava flow toward the precarious village, all of it's inhabitants sat in church listening to the Reverend Jon Steingrimsson give his now famous Fire Sermon.

"This said week, and the two prior to it, more poison fell from the sky than words can describe: ash, volcanic hairs, rain full of sulfur and salt peter, all of it mixed with sand. The snouts, nostrils, and feet of livestock grazing or walking on the grass turned bright yellow and raw. All water went tepid and light blue in color and gravel slides turned gray. All the earth's plants burned, withered and turned gray, one after the another, as the fire increased and neared the settlements."

Many claimed this is what stopped the lava flow from destroying their village as it came to a stop just at the edge of town. A miracle. Lord have mercy! The Kirkjubaer Camp Site now sits just feet from what is the largest lava flow ever witnessed. Their restrooms sport the usual sinks, toilets and urinals in both men and women flavors. Additionally, there are showers available for 500 kronurs (just over $7. Yikes!). The egg-like Sphinx brand urinals looked like they may belong to a Bond villain. A sign near the sinks read VINSAMLEGST NOTITH VASKANA ATHEINS TIL ATH PVO HENDUR OG ANDLIT or PLEASE USE THIS BASIN ONLY FOR WASHING HANDS AND FACE. This is a very clever way to write a sign. Rather than listing everything you CAN'T do. This sign lists the only 2 things you can do - thus saving time and space. No need to write NO DISHWASHING. DO NOT DO YOUR LAUNDRY IN HERE. DO NOT DRINK THIS WATER. DO NOT COOK WITH THIS WATER. DO NOT MAKE INSTANT BEVERAGES. DO NOT FILL YOUR SQUIRT GUNS HERE. DO NOT WASH YOUR ARMS, LEGS OR GENITALIA IN THE SINK. DO NOT PEE IN THE SINK. DO NOT POOP IN THE SINK. etc. etc. I could go on for days.

RESTROOM RATING: 6
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