Hengill
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The Hengill (isl., pronounced: henjidl) central volcano is situated in the south-west of Iceland, to the south of Þingvellir. The volcano covers an area of about 100 km/2.
The volcano is still active which can be seen in the hot springs and vapour arising on a lot of particular spots. But the last eruption is dating as far back as 2000 years.
It is an important supplier of energy for the south of the country which is especially put to use at the Nesjavellir power station. The power station is to be found at the western shore of the lake Þingvallavatn.
The area with its mountains and hot springs is well suited for hiking and there are a lot of hiking trails.
Hengill_behind_Hveragerdi.jpg
The little town of Hveragerði with its multitude of hot springs is also part of the Hengill area.
Some folk tales and sagas are connected to the region. For example the one about the troll woman Jóra: She is said to have been lying in wait for innocent wanderers or horsemen on the trail over the Dyrafjöll. In the end, a young farmer shall have put her to death while she slept.