The anti-NATO riot in Iceland of 30 March 1949 was prompted by the decision of the Alþingi, the Icelandic parliament, to join the newly formed NATO, thereby involving Iceland directly in the Cold War,
Fighting breaks out between anti- and pro-NATO supporters, and police. The windows of the House of the Althing have been smashed (30 March 1949).
Policemen in gas masks guard Austurvöllur after dispersing the crowd with tear gas
People gather in front of the House of the Althing.
Police are prepared for trouble in front of the House of the Althing.
Austurvöllur
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Austurvöllur is a public square in Reykjavík, Iceland. The square is a popular gathering place for the citizens of Reykjavík, and especially during good weather due to the prevalence of cafés on Valla
Austurvöllur in 2023. The Reykjavík Cathedral (Dómkirkjan í Reykjavík) and the Parliament House (Alþingishúsið) are on the right. Hallgrímskirkja is visible in the distance.
November 2008 protest in Austurvöllur