The legend of Kópakonan, literally meaning “the Seal Woman”,
is one of the best-known folktales in the Faroe Islands.
“Seals were believed to be former human beings who voluntarily sought death in the ocean. Once a year, on the Thirteenth night, they were allowed to come on land, strip off their skins and amuse themselves as human beings, dancing and enjoying themselves”
*read full part of the myrth: Kópakonan
“A statue of Kópakonan was raised in Mikladalur on the island of Kalsoy in August 2014. The statue is designed to withstand 13metre waves. In early 2015, a 11.5metre wave swept over the statue. It stood firm and no damage was caused”
Watch this short clip from that particularly stormy day in 2015.
Sculpture made by Hans Pauli Olsen
