Geophysicist Advocates for Name Change of Popular Landmark in Iceland

Reykjavík, Iceland — April 17, 2025 — A prominent geophysicist has urged for a revision of the name of a well-known tourist site, arguing that its current title misrepresents Iceland's geographical identity. Páll Einarsson, a professor emeritus, specifically criticizes the designation of the "Bridge Between Continents," located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, suggesting that it perpetuates a misunderstanding regarding the island's place in the world.

Concerns Over Misleading Naming

Constructed in 2002, the Bridge spans a small rift valley in the Sandvík region, south of Hafnir. It serves as a symbolic crossing between two tectonic plates: the North American Plate and the Eurasian Plate. While it attracts many tourists who wish to step between two continents, Einarsson contends that this representation is incorrect. He expressed his views in a recent Facebook post, stating, “Iceland has always been considered a part of Europe. The American continent begins in Greenland—this bridge doesn’t stretch that far.”

Einarsson emphasized that labeling the bridge as one between continents disregards the geographical facts. “That doesn’t make part of Iceland American. Let’s not spread the misconception that any part of Iceland belongs to America,” he added.

Safety Issues in the Area

In addition to its controversial name, the area surrounding the Bridge Between Continents faces safety hazards. A significant sinkhole has emerged near the footpath leading up to the bridge, prompting officials to advise visitors to stick to the designated trails. There have also been reports of new cracks appearing in the nearby Valahnúkur tuff formation, located near the Reykjanes lighthouse, which has been a site of erosion concerns since at least 2016. Signs and fencing have been installed to caution tourists about potential dangers.

Geographic and Cultural Integrity

Einarsson's advocacy for a name change is fueled by a desire to maintain Iceland's geographic and cultural integrity. He points out that while the island's western regions rest on the North American tectonic plate, it remains geographically and culturally part of Europe. By clarifying this distinction, Einarsson hopes to correct public understanding regarding Iceland's geological positioning.

As discussions around the landmark continue, it remains to be seen if authorities will address these naming concerns and the geographical education that underpins them.

Conclusion

The debate over the "Bridge Between Continents" serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate geographic representation. As both a popular tourist destination and a site of scientific interest, its name plays a critical role in how visitors perceive Iceland's connection to the broader world. For now, safety remains a priority as tourist interests converge with natural phenomena on the Reykjanes Peninsula.