Svartifoss Waterfall

This amazing waterfall may be found in the Skaftafell Nature Reserve in Southeast Iceland, which is part of the Vatnajokull National Park. Svartifoss, which translates to "black waterfall", is one of the park's most popular attractions. The name comes from the stark contrast between the white water and the dark hexagonal basalt columns. Sharp boulders that have broken from the columns sit at the base of the falls, giving the cascades an unearthly feel.

This waterfall's base is notable for its sharp rocks. New hexagonal column pieces break off faster than the falling water wears the sides down. These basalt columns have influenced Icelandic architects, most notably in the Hallgrmskirkja church in Reykjavik, the ceiling of the National Theatre, and sculptor Richard Serra's iconic Milestones on Videy island.