Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/basalt-columns/kirkjugolf

Content updated: 2026-09-10

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# Kirkjugólf: The Church Floor Basalt Pavement

Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org](<https://www.iceland.org/about-us>) · [Writing & review](<https://www.iceland.org/editorial-policy#credits>)

Kirkjugólf shows the ends of basalt columns at ground level: a patchwork of stone polygons that resembles paving. Its name means “Church Floor,” but the pattern is natural.

## How the floor formed

The regional tourism authority describes erosion when the sea covered this area. The exposed formation is about 80 square meters, and no building stood on it. [Visit South Iceland’s Kirkjugólf record](<https://www.south.is/en/place/kirkjugolf>) identifies it as a protected natural monument and provides a location map.

## Which basalt stop fits your route?

Choose Kirkjugólf if you want to study the column pattern from above. For a different perspective, compare [Dverghamrar’s upright columns and blocky upper rock](<https://www.iceland.org/basalt-columns/dverghamrar>). These are different forms to look for, rather than interchangeable photo stops.

Kirkjugólf lies a few hundred meters east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Combine the area with [Systrafoss](<https://www.iceland.org/waterfall/systrafoss>) if you are already exploring the village. Follow the marked visitor access; a destination pin identifies the formation, not a guaranteed parking space or step-free route.

Planning help

## Questions before you go

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

**Was there a church at Kirkjugólf?**

No. Visit South Iceland states that no church or other building stood on this natural basalt pavement. The name describes its resemblance to a floor.

**How large is Kirkjugólf?**

The exposed pavement covers about 80 square meters. It is a compact formation to examine from above, rather than a tall wall of columns.

**Where is Kirkjugólf?**

Visit South Iceland places the protected natural monument a few hundred meters east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Use the destination map linked above to locate the formation.

[Compare Iceland’s basalt formations](<https://www.iceland.org/basalt-columns>)

Country reference: [Iceland statistics](<https://www.iceland.org/statistics>).