Groundbreaking held for Iceland’s first high‑security prison at Stóra‑Hraun

A ceremonial groundbreaking was held today for Iceland’s first purpose‑built high‑security prison at Stóra‑Hraun, located in Árborg in the Southern Region. The event marks a significant step in the country’s approach to detention facilities. The project is fully funded for its initial phase at an estimated cost of about 17.8 billion krónur (ISK). The story was first reported by RÚV.

Once complete, the Stóra‑Hraun prison will offer 128 inmate units, making it the most secure facility in Iceland. Construction preparations for the project began three years ago. A tender for earthworks associated with the site was held during the summer, while the broader project encompasses building modern facilities, setting up worker accommodations, constructing roads and installing utilities.

The first phase of the prison is set to deliver general accommodation for 56 prisoners, in addition to a school building, a workshop, a warehouse and a main building. According to a government memo, the new prison is designed to strengthen the prison system’s infrastructure, address challenges posed by organised crime and problematic prisoner associations, and ensure greater safety for both staff and inmates. The project places emphasis not only on security but also on rehabilitation and living conditions.

Those present at the groundbreaking included Þorbjörg Sigríður Gunnlaugsdóttir, Ragna Bjarnadóttir and Bragi Bjarnason. Following the ceremony, refreshments were offered in the banquet hall of the Árnesinga Regional Museum, housed in a preserved building on Búðarstígur. As described in government remarks, “this is a historic moment.” (translated from Icelandic)

TopicsÁrborghigh-security prisonIcelandic prisonsMinistry of JusticeSouthern RegionStóra-Hraun