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Archaeological site · St. Anthony, Newfoundland and Labrador
L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site
Remains of a Viking occupation from around the year 1000 at Newfoundland’s northern tip, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a visitor centre and reconstructed sod houses.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site
In 1960, explorer Helge Ingstad and archaeologist Anne Stine Ingstad, both Norwegian, were searching along the North American coast for evidence of the voyages described in the Icelandic sagas. A local resident of L'Anse aux Meadows led them to grass-covered rises by the bay. Excavations revealed the foundations of eight turf-and-wood buildings, tools and Norse artifacts dating to around the year 1000.
The site was a temporary camp, used briefly to repair boats and to explore further south. It is the only confirmed Viking site in North America and was among the first places inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in 1978.
At the Parks Canada visitor centre are objects from the excavations and the saga history. A trail leads to the preserved marks of the original structures in the field and to replicas of three turf houses, where interpreters dressed as Norse people demonstrate spinning, smithing and cooking. The site usually opens from June 1 to early October; check the dates and the current schedule.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Three to four hours.
Best time
From June to September, with interpreters at the reconstructions. Mornings are less crowded.
How to get there
At the end of Route 436, about 50 km from St. Anthony, roughly a 45-minute drive.
Tip
Bring warm clothing and a raincoat: the site is open to sea winds, and the weather changes quickly.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site
Who discovered the L'Anse aux Meadows site?
Helge and Anne Stine Ingstad, in 1960, with the help of a local resident.
Are the Viking houses at L'Anse aux Meadows original?
The originals remain as traces in the field; next to them there are replica turf houses built for visitors.
How long does a visit to L'Anse aux Meadows take?
Three to four hours, including the visitor centre, the original remains and the replicas.