Tucked away in the picturesque village of Mikladalur on the island of Kalsoy, you’ll find a stone unlike any other — Marjunar Hav, or Marjun’s Lifting Stone. Weighing a staggering 287.5 kg (633 lbs), this giant slab is more than just a boulder — it’s a symbol of courage, strength, and a tragic story that dates back to the 16th century.
Stonelifting is a tradition in many cultures, and Marjunar Hav is believed to have been used as a “hold for time” challenge — where lifters attempt to lift and hold the stone from a raised platform or rocks beneath. Its flat shape and size suggest it was never about height — but rather raw power and endurance.
According to local legend, Marjun was a young housemaid who became pregnant outside of marriage — a crime punishable by death in those times. Knowing her fate was sealed, she sought to leave behind something that would be remembered.
While tending to the cows one day, she approached the massive stone. Other maids begged her not to try, fearing for her safety. But Marjun replied:
“I know what lies in store for me. I’d rather lose my life. This Hav will be my only legacy.”
And with that, she lifted the stone — etching her name into Faroese folklore forever.
Today, the stone rests at a memorial mural in Mikladalur, where Marjun’s story is told through images and local memory. The site is fenced off, so lifting the stone is not permitted — but standing in its presence offers a powerful glimpse into a legendary past.
Mikladalur itself is a small and charming village, home to fewer than 50 people, but rich in myth and history — also known for the famous Seal Woman statue down by the sea.
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