Hvalsey Church Ruins

Hvalsey Church, near Qaqortoq in southern Greenland, is the best-preserved Norse ruin in the country. This stone church was built in the 12th century and was part of a larger Viking settlement. It was a place for religious gatherings and community events, including a wedding in 1408, the last known record of Norse activity in Greenland before they mysteriously disappeared. The couple later moved to Iceland, where records of their lives continued, but no further reports came from Greenland’s Norse population.

Hvalsey was once a thriving settlement, and the church was likely the heart of the community. People gathered here for services, celebrations, and everyday life. By the 15th century, the Norse were gone, leaving only ruins and unanswered questions.

Hvalsey ruins can be reached only by boat from Qaqortoq. The site is in a quiet coastal area with well-preserved stone walls and stunning natural surroundings. It’s an excellent spot for anyone interested in Viking history, archaeology, or exploring remote historical sites.