A Visionary Tribute to Jules Verne in Iceland

A European artistic, cultural & scientific landmark in the heart of Snæfellsnes

Jules Verne & Iceland — A Legacy of Exploration

Iceland plays a central role in Journey to the Center of the Earth…

runes Snæfellsjökull

Runic inscription

The Door to the Earth's Depths In Verne's imagination, this real-life volcano is the starting point of a fantastic journey into the Earth's core — the boundary between reality and fiction.

Portrait Snorri Sturluson
Snorri Sturluson

Snorri Sturluson

A giant in world literature Iceland's legendary historian (1179–1241), his Prose Edda preserves Viking mythology and inspired countless authors, including Verne.

Snæfellsjökull
Arne Saknussemm

Snæfellsjökull

The Icelandic Explorer The fictional Icelandic scholar who deciphers the runic inscription to the Earth's center. He embodies the spirit of exploration deeply rooted in Iceland's history.

The Monument Title

The Orkubaugur monument by the sea in Snæfellsnes

A Monument of Global Cultural & Scientific Significance More than just a monument — a landmark of imagination, exploration, and scientific curiosity.

"Everything that is dreamed of is already a reality." — J. Verne

Cultural Impact
A tribute to Jules Verne, strengthening Franco-Icelandic-German ties.

Touristic Attraction
A unique experience blending literature, adventure, and Iceland's nature.

Symbolic & Scientific Value
A bridge between Earth and Sky, honoring Iceland's volcanic power.

Behind the Project

Two Visionaries Behind the Project Project initiated by Jón Jóel Einarsson & Gerhard König, led by Stéphanie Dagherir

Jon Joel Einarsson
A Passionate Guide

Jón Jóel Einarsson

A dedicated expert of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, deeply familiar with Snæfellsjökull. His love for the territory and its history helped inspire this ambitious project.

Gerhard König
The Artist

Gerhard König

A sculptor driven by the connection between nature, energy, and culture. His artistic vision transforms an idea into a monumental reality.

Stéphanie Dagherir
France

Stéphanie Dagherir

Project coordination & international partnerships.

The Steering Committee

Bringing together artists, researchers, cultural institutions and local actors to build a strong, credible and deeply rooted project.

Friðrik Rafnsson

Friðrik Rafnsson

Translator of Journey to the Centre of the Earth into Icelandic; former chair of the Icelandic Guides Association

Guja Dögg

Guja Dögg

Architect, Associate Professor at the Iceland Academy of the Arts

Ástráður Eysteinsson

Ástráður Eysteinsson

Professor of Comparative Literature, University of Iceland; grew up near Snæfellsjökull

Þorsteinn Þorsteinsson

Þorsteinn Þorsteinsson

Glaciologist, Icelandic Met. Office; passionate reader of Jules Verne

Ann Thorsso

Ann Thorsso

Novelist living at the foot of Snæfellsjökull

Are you interested in the project?

Orkubaugur is designed in harmony with Iceland's nature, built with local and sustainable materials. Developed through a European collaboration between Iceland, France and Germany, the project moves from concept to grand opening between 2025 and 2027. We are looking for institutional, scientific, and corporate partners to make this vision a reality.