The iceland Museum guide 2014 Museums, Exhibitions, collections, National Parks & Head Churches
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Preface ....................................................................................... 5 Central Reykjavik....................................................................... 8 The Greater Reykjavik Area...................................................... 34 The Reykjanes Peninsula........................................................... 47 The West.................................................................................... 52 The Westfjords........................................................................... 64 The North West ........................................................................ 78 Akureyri...................................................................................... 92 The North East .......................................................................... 100 The East ..................................................................................... 100 The South .................................................................................. 110 Other museums......................................................................... 142
Reykjavík Welcome Card Reykjavík Welcome Card offers great value for money by giving you admission to all of Reykjavík’s thermal pools, Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park, the ferry to Viðey island and many museums. It includes unlimited travel on Reykjavík buses and discounts at shops, restaurants and activity. Reykjavík Welcome Card is available in three versions, valid for 24 hours, 48 hours or 72 hours.
Reykjavík Tourist Information Centre, Adalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík www.visitreykjavik.is tel. 590 1550 info@visitreykjavik.is
Welcome Card
Sold at Tourist Information Centre - Aðalstræti 2, 101 Reykjavík Icelandic • Travel Market - Bankastræti 2, 101 Reykjavík • Loft Hostel - Bankastræti 7, 101 Reykjavík • Reykjavík Backpakcers Hostel - Laugavegur 28, 101 Reykjavík • Trip. is - Laugavegur 54, 101 Reykjavík • Volcano House - Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík • Downtown Hostel - Vesturgata 17, 101 Reykjavík • Reykjavík City Hostel - Sundlaugarvegur 34, 104 Reykjavík • Reykjavík Campsite in Laugardalur Sundlaugarvegur 32, 104 Reykjavík • Hilton Reykjavik Nordica - Suðurlandsbraut 2, 105 Reykjavík • Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura - Nauthólsvegur 52, 105 Reykjavík • Hafnarfjörður Tourist Information Centre - Strandgata 6, 220 Hafnarfjörður • Hótel Hafnarfjörður - Reykjavíkurvegur 72, 220 Hafnarfjörður • Reykjavík Art Museum, National Museum of Iceland & Víkin Maritime Museum • Guesthouse Borgartun - Borgartún 24 105 Reykjavík • Sterna Tour Desk - Harpa Music and Conference Hall, by the Waterfront • Grand Hotel - Sigtún 38, 105 Reykjavík • What‘s on Booking and Information Centre - Laugavegur 4, 101 Reykjavík • 10-11 Supermarket - Austurstræti, Barónsstigur & Laugavegur
preface by the chairman of the association of museums and museum staff in iceland
The museum flora of Iceland is expanding rapidly throughout the country in all its diversity, ranging from exhibitions of wool-work in an old turf-house to a modern art preformance in an art gallery. Museums have in common that within them reigns respect for culture and nature, built on a keen awareness of the importance of conservation and research in its multiple variations. Museums are not just a storage place for past nor a shelf space for forgotten treasures, but a live forum where past and present meet. In the museums antiquities are shown and stories from the past shared with the guests who are treated to a varied experience meticulously prepared and presented. Even though work in a museum is typically characterized by science and scholarly work there is also an awareness that museums are there for all of us and that their duty is also to educate and cater to different needs. Museums are not for the few, but rather for the many. They are for everyone. When we find ourselves in the role of museum visitors in a good museum we get an opportunity to experience all kinds of emotions ranging from nostalgia to a profound reflection on the lessons of history. A museum can also double simply as a place to forget oneself for an hour or two and have one´s much needed moment of Zen. It ‘s all a part of the game .
Bergsveinn Þórsson Chairman of FÍSOS – Association of Icelandic museums and museum staff
from the editor of the iceland museum guide
Iceland – More than just Nature The aim of the Iceland Museum Guide, by collecting comprehensively information about museums, exhibitions, collections and national parks and publish in a handy format, is to increase the awareness of all those traveling around Iceland of the incredibly rich flora of cultural activity in Iceland. Seeing is believing and we are certain that the Museum Guide will give you ideas for your trip and make you want to visit some of the museums in Iceland. We know for sure, that the well prepared staff will be hospitable and make your visit memorable. This is the fifth edition of the Museum Guide, which contains information on 160 museums, parks, exhibitions and collections. A good and inspiring companion on your trip around Iceland.
Iðunn Vignisdóttir Editor
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Þjóðminjasafn Íslands National Museum of Iceland
vinVikto dm ríu ylla hús í V og igu r Hraunskirkja í Keldudal
vinVikto dm ríu ylla hús í V og igu r
Litlibær í Skötufirði Hraunskirkja Hjallur í í Keldudal Vatnsfirði
Litlibær í Skötufirði
Arngrímsstofa í Svarfaðardal Pakkhúsið á Hofsósi
Hjallur í Vatnsfirði
Grafarkirkja á Höfðaströnd
Skipalón
Pakkhú á Hofs Laufás Grafa á Höf
Sjávarborgarkirkja
Staðarkirkja á Reykjanes i
Staðarkirkja á Reykjanes i Kirkjuhvammskirkja við Hvammstanga
Reykholtskirkja
Sjávarborgarkirkja Bæjardyr á Bæjardyr á Nýibær Reynistað Reynistað á Hólum Glaumbær Glaumbær Stóru-Akrar Stór Saurbæjarkirkja Klukknap Víðimýrarkirkja Víðimýrarkirkja á Möðru Kirkjuhvammskirkja Hólar við Hvammstanga
Reykholtskirkja
Tungufellskirkja
Tungufellskirkja
Nesstofa
Nesstofa
ÞJÓÐMINJASAFN ÍSLANDSÞJÓÐMINJASAFN ÍSLANDS
Húsið og Assistentahúsið á Eyrarbakka
Bænhú Núpsst
Húsið og Assistentahúsið á Eyrarbakka Keldur á Rangárvöllum
Keldur á Rangárvöllum
Sauðahús í Álftaveri
Within the Historic Buildings Collection (NMHC), you can find many interesting houses and churches made from stone, turf and wood. Together, these buildings serve as a reminder of old Icelandic construction methods and are national historic treasures. For more information, please visit: www.thjodminjasafn.is/minjar-og-rannsoknir/husasafn
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Historic buildings collection
Sauðanes
Arngrímsstofa í Svarfaðardal Pakkhúsið á Hofsósi Grafarkirkja á Höfðaströnd
Sjávarborgarkirkja
Víðimýrarkirkja
Laufás
Skipalón
Grenjaðarstaður í Aðaldal Þverá í Laxárdal
Bæjardyr á Nýibær Reynistað á Hólum Glaumbær Stóru-Akrar Saurbæjarkirkja Hólar
Sæluhús við Jökulsá á Fjöllum Klukknaport á Möðruvöllum
Bustarfell í Vopnafirði Galtastaðir fram í Hróarstungu
Grænavatn
Sómastaðir við Reyðarfjörð
Teigarhorn við Berufjörð
ungufellskirkja
Bænhús á Núpsstað
Selið í Skaftafelli Hofskirkja í Öræfum
dur á ngárvöllum
Sauðahús í Álftaveri
Húsasafn Þjóðminjasafns Íslands Buildings Collection The National Museum’s Historic
Village/Town Þéttbýlisstaðir
The following buildings in the collection are staffed: Bustarfell, Glaumbær, Grenjaðarstaður, Húsið á Eyrarbakka, Keldum, Laufás, Reykholtskirkja, Sauðanes, Sómastaðir, Viktoriahouse in Vigur og Víðimýrarkirkju.
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Central Reykjavík
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 S N
MUSEUM The Saga Museum Víkin - The Maritime Museum The National Museum of Iceland The Nordic House The Settlement Exhibition Reykjavík 871+-2 The City Library Reykjavík Museum of Photography Reykjavík Art Museum - Hafnarhús National Gallery of Iceland Hannesarholt Culture house The Ásgrímur Jónsson Collection Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center Central Bank of Iceland Coin Collection The Museum House The Museum of Einar Jónsson The ASÍ Art Museum Hallgrímskrikja Church The Living Art Museum (Nýló) Art Gallery Fold Reykjavík Art Museum - Kjarvalsstaðir The Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum Reykjavík Art Museum - Ásmundarsafn Reykjavík City of Literature Samkaup Strax. Museum Guide available Nettó. Museum Guide available
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pages 33 32 10-11 28 29 24 24 16 12-13 21 14 30-31 26 27 19 20 18 22 23 16 15 16 25
The National Museum of Iceland
Þjóðminjasafn Íslands National Museum of Iceland The National Museum of Iceland is the oldest museum in the country and celebrated its 150th birthday in 2013. At the museum you can explore the permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History in Iceland, which is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the settlement to the present day. The exhibition is conceived as a journey through time: it begins with the ship, in which medieval settlers crossed the ocean to their new home; it ends in a modern airport, the Icelanders’ gateway to the world. The museum caters to all ages and you can find games, play dress up and explore the museum via interactive touch screens and audio-guides which compliment the exhibitions. From 1 May to 15 September guided tours are offered Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 11. Special Christmas exhibitions are on display from the 12th of December, where Icelandic Santas visit the museum.
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GPS: 64°08,502N 21°56,911W
Address: Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 530 2200 e-mail: nationalmuseum@nationalmuseum.is www.nationalmuseum.is
Opening hours: May 1st. - September 15th. daily 10.00-17.00 September 16th. - April 30th. daily 10.00-17.00 except Mondays 11.00-17.00
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National Gallery of Iceland
The National Gallery of Iceland, established in 1884, is the principal art museum of Iceland. Its art collection consists mainly of works of 19th and 20th century art and includes many of the key works of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries. The National Gallery’s main role is to collect, preserve, research and exhibit Icelandic art and offer related education. A considerable emphasis is also placed on showing Icelandic art in context with international art through solo and group exhibitions. The Gallery sees it as one of its priorities to educate visitors about exhibitions and single art works, by means of texts, guidance and meetings with artists. The Gallery has four exhibition rooms, on two floors, in addition to a cosy café and a gallery shop with artistic giftware. Address Fríkirkjuvegur 7, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 515 9600 e-mail: list@listasafn.is www.listasafn.is
Opening hours SUMMER (15.5.–15.9.) Open daily 10 am–5 pm, closed Mondays WINTER (16.9.–14.5.) Open daily 11 am–5 pm, closed Mondays Admission: See webpage - www.listasafn.is – 12 –
GPS:65°47,300N 23°59,411W
n Exhibition rooms
n Café – 2nd floor
n Gallery shop
n Library – Laufásvegur 12
Guided tours Check our webpage: www.listasafn.is Special guided tours and guidance in foreign languages by agreement. Tel. for scheduling 515 9600 / 515 9612 Information about the exhibitions tel. (+354) 878 0901 – 13 –
ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON COLLECTION
GPS: 64° 8,398’N, 21° 55,977’W
Ásgrímur Jónsson (1876–1958) is one of the pioneers of Icelandic art. He bequeathed all his works and belongings to the Icelandic people after his day.
The Ásgrímur Jónsson Collection is a special division of the National Gallery of Iceland. The Ásgrímur Jónsson Museum hosts the artist’s studio and home. The museum regularly holds exhibitions of the artist’s works.
Address: Bergstaðastræti 74 IS-101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 515 9625 www.listasafn.is
Opening hours: SUMMER (15.5.– 14.9.) Tuesdays, Thursdays & Sundays 2–5pm WINTER (15.9.– 14.5.) Sundays 2–5pm CLOSED DEC. & JAN. Open by appointment – 14 –
GPS: 64°09,184N 21°53,223W
The Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum
The Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum exhibits works by the modernistic sculptor, Sigurjón Ólafsson (1908 - 1982). It was founded by the artist’s widow, who had their home and his studio at Laugarnes converted to house a large collection of his sculptures, sketches and biographical material. The museum also sponsors various cultural programmes and its weekly summer concerts have become popular events in the culture life of Reykjavík.
Address: Laugarnestangi 70 IS-105 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 553 2906 e-mail: LSO@LSO.is www.LSO.is
Opening hours: SUMMER (1.6.– 31.8.) 2–5pm / Closed Mondays WINTER (1.9.– 31.5.) Open Saturdays and Sundays 2–5pm CLOSED DEC. & JAN. – 15 –
Reykjavik Art Museum Reykjavík Art Museum (RAM) is Iceland’s largest network of art museums. The museum is located in three unique buildings across the city and holds some of the most distinguished works in Iceland’s artistic landscape. Various events and happenings are also held at RAM. The museum is open daily and the entrance ticket is valid for all three museums.
GPS: 64°08,944N 21°56,428W
Hafnarhús Hafnarhús is located downtown by the old harbour and houses the permanent collection of the works of Erró, one of Europe’s most notable pop artists. It has six art exhibition halls, multi-purpose rooms and outdoor areas. In the Hafnarhús there is a stylish café that offers an impressive harbour view and the well-stocked shop is worth a browse. Located at Tryggvagata 17, 101 Rvk. Open daily 10-17, Thursdays 10-20.
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GPS: 64°08,275N 21°54,804W
Kjarvalsstaðir Kjarvalsstaðir offers a variety of art exhibitions all year round, focusing primarily on paintings and sculptures by both Icelandic and foreign artists. The museum houses the works of one of Iceland’s most influential and beloved artists, Jóhannes S. Kjarval (1885-1972). The museum houses a café with a beautiful view over Klambratún Park and a beautiful design-and-book store. Guided tours in English during the summer. Located at Flókagata, 105 Rvk. Open daily 10-17. 00000 00
GPS: 64°08,492N 21°53,117W
Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum is the former home and workshop of the sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson, (18931982) who was one of the pioneers of sculpture in Iceland. He designed most of the building and the museum serves to preserve his work and life. The museum has on display the largest collection of his sculptures, located both inside and in the garden that surrounds it. The museum also houses a beautiful museum shop. Situated in the peaceful Laugar valley, it is a short bus-ride from the city center. Located in Sigtún, 105 Rvk. Open daily May - Sept 10-17, from Oct. - April 13-17.
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www.artmuseum.is | e-mail: listasafn@reykjavik.is | Phone (+354) 590-1200 Cultural Card-Annual ticket to museums in Reykjavík. – 16 –
0
Made in collaboration with
Front
‘Painting is a private form of Utopia: the ng contradictory, the happiness in being all, the joy of provocation.’
Erró
oth an appetizer and a souvenir of Erró´s k is produced in co-operation with the Gallery, the owner of the world´s largest Erró is written by Art historian and Erró specialaran.
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take art too seriously – it’s far too t.’ Jóhannes Kjarval (1959)
Jóhannes Kjarval
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By common consent, Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval (18851972) is the greatest painter Iceland has produced, as well as the most Icelandic in temperement. His reckless blending of different painting styles often appalls international audiences; his meshing of landscapes, portraits, anonymous faces, cartoon-like figures, animals, Viking ships and symbols of his own making are baffling for some viewers, who are also perplexed by the presence of the supernatural in his work.
Detail from Mountain Milk by Jóhannes Kjarval
Jóhannes Kjarval
onsent, Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval the greatest painter Iceland has well as the most Icelandic in
ains 37 pictures of various thecnique and he help and co-operation of the Reykjavík
Danielle Kvaran, born in Marseilles in 1956, graduated from Aix-enProvence University in classical studies. Danielle is the foremost Erró scholar and has published books on the artist and curated exhibitions of his work. She lives in Oslo where she has been working for the French government, as a director for the Centre d’information sur la France. She is a consultant with the Erró Museum in Reykjavík.
Front
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The Icelandic artist Erró – Guðmundur Guðmundsson (1932) has long been a major figure of the international contemporary art scene. He is linked to Surrealism, Narrative Figuration, and Pop Art, but his work cannot be said to belong to any one of these in particular. Erró became a leading participant in the new Narrative Figuration movement in Paris. A group of international painters who more so than American Pop Artists sought to cast a critical eye on society, they reintroduced temporality into their works.
Also Page 58-59.
souvenir
rtist Erró, has long been a major figure of al contemporary art scene. He is linked to rrative Figuration, and Pop Art, but his work to belong to any one of these in particular. ectron within the world of contemporary art.
Detail from New Jersey by Erró
Erró
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A›alsteinn Ingólfsson (b. 1948) studied literature and art history in Scotland, the UK, Italy and Sweden. He has a masters degree in literature and language history from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and a masters degree in art history from Courtauld Institute of Art in London. He worked as an art historian for Reykjavík Art Museum and The National Gallery of Iceland among other art institutions. He has taught at Iceland‘s Academy of the Arts and has been active as an art critic and a cultural editor in Icelandic media.
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978-1-904945-61-1
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Ásmundur Sveinsson
I S B N 9 7 8 - 9 9 3 5 - 4 22-02-6
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Ásmundur Seinsson (1893-1982) was one of the pioneers of Icelandic sculpture and was first and foremost inspired by Icelandic nature and literature, from the Icelandic Sagas, the poems of Egill Skallagrímsson and the Norse Mythology. His massive, powerful and sometimes provocative works are akin to the wonderous formations that can be seen in Icelandic nature. One of his most impressive work is the unique home and studio he built in Sigtún in Reykjavík which now holds an art museum and sculpture park commemorating the artist.
Ásmundur Sveinsson working on his sculpture Worship 1946.
Ásmundur Sveinsson
einsson was one of the pioneers of Icelandic d was first and foremost inspired by Icelandic erature, as well as by the people itself. His werful and sometimes provocative works e wondrous formations that can be seen in ure. He managed to adopt the main currents nding them a distinct national character.
made in co-operation with the Reykjavík Art
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978-1-904945-62-8
Gunnar B. Kvaran Born in Reykjavik, Iceland in 1955. PhD in Art History from l´Université de Provence, Aix-en-Provence, France, 1986. Director of The Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum, Reykjavík, Iceland 19831989 (Incorporated into the responsibilities of Director of Reykjavík Municipal Art Museum since 1989). Director of The Reykjavik Art Museum from 1989-1997, Director of The Bergen Art Museum, Bergen, Norway from 19972001. Director of The Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, Oslo, Norway since 2001.
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Hallgrimskirkja – the Church of Hallgrim
GPS: 64°08,525N 21°55,629W
Hallgrimskirkja - the Church of Hallgrimur is a national monument, dedicated to the most renowned sacred poet of Iceland, Hallgrimur Petursson. The parish is part of the EvangelicalLutheran Church of Iceland. Hallgrimskirkja towers over the centre of Reykjavik, and its 73 metre-high tower provides a wonderful view over all Reykjavik. Building work started in 1945 and the church was finally consecrated on 26 October 1986. The state architect, Gudjon Samuelsson (1887-1950) designed the church. He drew richly on Icelandic traditions and materials. The concert organ was inaugurated in 1992. It was constructed by Johannes Klais Organworks in Bonn, Germany. Friends of the Arts of Hallgrimskirkja was founded in 1982 and have promoted rich and varied artistic events. A festival of sacred art is held every other year and the International organ summer is held every year.
Address: Hallgrímstorg 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 510 1000 e-mail: hallgrimskirkja@hallgrimskirkja.is www.hallgrimskirkja.is
Opening hours: Summer (June 1st. - August 31st.): 9.00 - 21.00 Winter: 9.00 - 17.00 Admission to the tower: ISK 800 Adults ISK 500 Seniors and Students ISK 100 Children (7-14 years old) – 18 –
GPS: 64°08,518N 21°55,740W Museum of Einar Jónsson
Einar Jónsson (1874-1954) was Iceland’s first sculptor and the building was the country´s first art museum. The sculptor offered his works to the Icelandic people and his museum was opened in 1923. The task of the museum is to preserve, display and research the art of Einar Jónsson. An open garden adorned with 26 bronze casts of the artist´s works is located behind the museum.
Address: Hallgrímstorg 1, opposite Hallgrímskirkja IS-101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551 3797 e-mail: lej@lej.is www.lej.is
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st - Sept. 15th 13:00-17:00 daily except on Mondays Winter: Sept. 16th - May 31st 13:00-17:00 Sat.-Sun. Closed in January and December Admittance: See www.lej.is
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The ASÍ Art Museum
GPS: 64°08,452N 21°55,700W
The ASI Art Gallery is situated close to Hallgrímskirkja church in the center of Reykjavík in a beautiful house built by the sculptors Ásmundur Sveinsson and Gunnfríður Jónsdóttir in the third decade of the last century. The gallery has been an important venue for the best of Icelandic contemporary art during the last decades, as well as exhibiting annually important works from an extensive collection of twentieth century art.
Address: Freyjugata 41 IS-101 Reykjavik Tel: 5115353 e-mail: listasi@centrum.is www.listasafnasi.is
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Opening hours: Summer: Open each day except mondays 13.00-17.00. July 2014 closed. Winter: Open each day except mondays 13.00-17.00 Admission: Free
hannesarholt
GPS: 64° 8,655’N, 21° 56,138’W
HANNESARHOLT culture house, located in old Reykjavik on the corner of Skálholtsstígur and Grundarstígur in the historic home of the late Hannes Hafstein, Iceland’s first Minister of State and a beloved poet and politician. It ranks among the first concrete houses in Reykjavik, built in 1915, and remained a home until 2007. The intention of Hannesarholt, a non-profit organization, is to bring together generations, disciplines and fields, in an effort to reclaim cultural memory and build a sense of identity, firmly rooted in the past. • Bordstofan Bistro offers delicious food in the delightful dining rooms on the first floor daily from 11 am operated by the celebrated Icelandic chef Sveinn Kjartansson. www.bordstofan.is •
Guided tours of the house and a short documentary about Hannes Hafstein and the formative years of the city (12 min) by appointment.
•
City walks from Hannesarholt of the historic center of town offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1 pm and by appointment.
•
Cultural events and musical performances year round.
Hannesarholt is the perfect place for a nourishing moment in a unique atmosphere, at the gate between the past and the present.
Address: Hannesarholt Grundarstígur 10 101 Reykjavík Tel: +(354) 511 1904
Opening Hours Borðstofan Bistro: Open daily from 11am hannesarholt@hannesarholt.is www.hannesarholt.is
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The Living Art Museum (Nýló)
GPS: 64° 8,729’N, 21° 55,166’W
Installation shot from the exhibition - Embracing Impermanence – We came into this with a shovel in our hands. The artists are Ólafur Lárusson, Gunndís Ýr Finnabogadóttir, Maja Bekan, Sindri Leifsson og Sigurður Guðmundsson
The Living Art Museum (Nýló) is a non-profit, artist-run space and a museum, founded in 1978 by 30 artists. The main purpose of founding a new contemporary art museum in Reykjavik at the time was to establish and introduce contemporary art within the local culture scene. Today the members of the Association of Nýló include 350 local and international individuals, mostly artists. Since its establishment, the members have donated artworks to Nýló and today the collection includes around 2000 works. Nýló has functioned as a forum of possibilities for both art and reflections on society. The museum is an important platform for research, cross-disciplinary collaboration with institutions and individuals, critical Róska discourse on contemporary art and presentation in performance and lecture, 1996 the form of exhibitions, events, publication and talks. Every year, the museum’s Poster, part of the collection board is committed to the presentation and preservation of contemporary art by Icelandic and international artists, both emerging and established. Nýló will move early June 2014 from its current location at Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavík to Völvufell 13-21, 111 Reykjavík. For further information please visit www.nylo.is or contact us at nylo@nylo.is
Address: The Living Art Museum, Collection and archives Völvufell 13-21 111 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551 4350
Opening hours: Open Thursday-Friday and by an appointment Admission: Free
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art gallery Fold
GPS: 64.142525, -21.914242
Galleri Fold is Iceland’s leading exhibition and auction house. Established in 1990, the present proprietors have owned Galleri Fold since 1992. Galleri Fold has for sale the works of over sixty of Iceland’s best-known artists. The gallery also resells artworks on behalf of individuals and companies, both directly and at auctions. There are two big exhibition halls in the gallery where 6-8 shows are held every year, displaying art by Icelandic and foreign artists. Galleri Fold is a member of
the Fine Art Trade Guild
Address: Rauðarárstígur 12 - 14 105 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551-0400 e-mail: fold@myndlist.is www.gallerifold.is facebook.com/Artgalleryfold
Opening hours: Summer: Weekdays 10:00 - 18:00, Saturdays 11:00 - 14:00, Sundays closed. Winter: Weekdays 10:00 - 18:00, Saturday 11:00 - 16:00, Sundays 11:00 - 14:00. Admission: Free
twitter.com/artgalleryfold – 23 –
Snorrastofa The City Library cultural centre in Reykholt
GPS: 64°08,959N 64°39,879N 21°56,485W 21°17,536W
Reykjavik City Library runs six libraries, a bookmobile and a story-van for children. All branches offer free wireless internet access, and the main library has a good selection of books about Iceland and Icelandic fiction in translation, in addition to films and music from Iceland and abroad. Icelandic contemporary art can be bought in the Library‘s Artotech. The Reykjavík City Library hosts free literary walking tours in downtown Reykjavík every Thursday in June, July and August at 3 pm. Icelandic ghost stories and crime fiction will be introduced at various stops by guides from the library. Duration 1,5 hours. The walk can be booked throughout the year for groups for 40.000 ISK. There is a screening of Spirits of Iceland: Living With Elves, Trolls and Ghosts on Thursdays at 2 pm. A 45 min. film on Icelandic folklore, and a fine warm-up for the walking tour.
Address: Tryggvagata 15, IS-101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 411 6100 e-mail: borgarbokasafn@borgarbokasafn.is www.borgarbokasafn.is www.literature.is
Opening hours, Main Library: Mon.-Thu. 10.00-19.00, Fri. 11.00-18.00, Sat. and Sun. 13.00-17.00.
Reykjavík Museum of Photography
GPS: 64°08,959N 21°56,485W
Reykjavík Museum of Photography is among the 10 best free museums in Europe according to The Guardian. At Reykjavík Museum of Photography there are over ten exhibitions per year. The aim is to introduce and promote Icelandic photographers, show works from the Collection as well as works of foreign photographers. Address:
Grófarhús – Tryggvagata 15, 6th floor IS-101 Reykjavík, Tel: (+354) 411 6390 e-mail: photomuseum@reykjavik.is www.ljosmyndasafnreykjavikur.is www.photomuseum.is
Opening hours of exhibitions: Mondays-Thursdays12.00-19.00 Fridays: 12.00-18.00 Weekends 13.00 – 17.00
Free Admission
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Free Wi-Fi
reykjavík city of literature
Reykjavík was disignated a UNESCO City of Literature in August 2011. The capital is home to Iceland’s leading cultural institutions and nurtures a flourishing arts scene, a diverse range of creative happenings and a dynamic grassroots community. Most of the country’s writers live in Reykjavík, and the city has provided a vibrant backdrop for the majority of contemporary Icelandic literature.
Discover Reykjavík’s literary side! Download our app, Reykjavik Culture Walks, for free to follow in the footsteps of our literary history. Reykjavik Culture Walks is an ideal way to get to know the city‘s culture and history on foot. Select a walk in English, Icelandic or German, browse through the stops or follow the path as outlined. The walks may be streamed or downloaded in advance. Available in iStore and Play Store.
Literary Retreats You can relax on a city bench and listen to Icelandic literature in English on your smartphone. See locations at cityofliterature.is. There’s lots to explore on our website,
from the Literary Timeline and Map, to several Literary Walks and Trails which highlight bookstores, libraries, cultural centers, and other literary points of interest as you make your way around Reykjavík.
For more information on our literary city, please visit our website www.cityofliterature.is – 25 –
Central Bank of Iceland Coin Collection
GPS: 64°08,935N 21°55,916W
The collection consists of Icelandic notes and coin, foreign money from earlier times, especially that mentioned in Icelandic sources, and more recent currency from Iceland’s main trading partner countries. The collection is now comprised of almost twenty thousand coins and almost five thousand types of notes. A selection from the numismatic collection is on display in showcases on the ground floor of the Central Bank´s main building in Kalkofnsvegur 1.
Address: Kalkofnsvegur 1, 150 Rvk Tel: (+354) 569 9600 e-mail: safnadeild@sedlabanki.is www.sedlabanki.is
Opening hours: The exhibition is open Mon-Fri. 13.30-15.30 Admission: Free
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The Culture House
GPS:64°08,527N 21°54,450W
The Culture House New permanent exhibition on Icelandic art history and visual heritage opens in The Culture House on Hverfisgata in autumn 2014. The exhibition gives visitors the chance to delve into the collections of six different cultural institutions: from thousand-year-old treasures to the latest in Icelandic art. Its focus is on the visual expression of the ideas we have about the world, our environment and ourselves. The materials and techniques may change over the years, but the viewpoints remain the same. This is a unique journey through Iceland’s visual legacy, offering an innovative guide to a nation’s cultural history. The exhibition is a collaboration between Iceland’s three leading museums in their respective fields – The National Museum of Iceland, The National Gallery of Iceland and The Natural History Museum – and The National Archives of Iceland, The National and University Library of Iceland, and The Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies.
Address: Hverfisgata 15, 101 Reykjavík sími: (+354) 530 2210 Netfang: thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is www.thjodminjasafn.is
Opening hours: Re-opens fall 2014 Summer: Open everyday 10-17 Winter: Open everyday 11-17 except closed on Mondays
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THe nordic house
GPS:64° 8,283’N, 21° 56,803’W
The Nordic House in Reykjavík is a cultural institution and opened in 1968. It is operated by the Nordic Council of Ministers. Its goal is to foster and support cultural connections between Iceland and the other Nordic countries. To this end the Nordic House organizes a diverse program of cultural events and exhibitions. The house is the venue for front row activities in the Icelandic cultural calendar: Reykjavík International Film and Literary Festivals, Iceland Airwaves and The Nordic Fashion Biennale— launched by the Nordic House. The house maintains a library and the Nordic Region in Focus information service. In addition, there is a shop for Nordic design and food products, exhibition space and auditoriums. The Nordic House is designed by acclaimed Finnish modernist architect Alvar Aalto (1898-1976).
The AALTO Bistro is located inside The Nordic House and serves fresh Icelandic ingredients. The restaurant takes inspiration from Icelandic and Scandinavian cooking and puts a new spin on old fashioned dishes. The head chef is one of Icelands most famous tv-chefs and his philosophy is to fuse the best ingredients into fun, colourful, healthy, tasty dishes. A selection of homemade cakes and baked goods along with coffee, is served throughout the day. Pick out a book from the library, sit out on the deck and enjoy the scenery, while trying out some of Iceland’s best cooking.
Address: Sturlugata 5 101 Reykjavík +354 551 7030
Opening Times: The Nordic House: Everyday 11 - 17 except Thursday - Saturday 11 - 21. The AALTO Bistro: Monday - Wednesday 11 - 17 and Thursday - Sunday 11 - 21 – 28 –
the Settlement Exhibition Reykjavík 871±2
GPS:64°08,850N21°56,547W
Experience Viking Age Reykjavík. The exhibition provides insight into how people lived during the Viking Age and what the Reykjavík environment looked like to the first settlers. The focus of the exhibition is an excavated longhouse, dating from the 10th century A.D., preserved in situ.
With the help of multimedia techniques and interactive features the original remains and Reykjavík‘s past are brought to life. The exhibition is suitable for all ages and includes an activity center for children. Audio Guides are available in many languages.
Address: Aðalstræti 16, IS-101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 411 6370 landnam@reykjavik.is www.reykjavikmuseum.is Opening hours: Daily from 10am to 5pm.
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Harpa - Music and conference hall
Explor latest
Guided tours d Harpa Concert Harpa – An Icelandic Gem A new Icelandic cultural and conference centre. Harpa is designed by world famous artist Olafur Eliasson in collaboration with Henning Larsen architects and Batteríið architects.
Harpa tour ISK Every day at 15:
Harpa opened its doors in 2011 and is the home of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, The Icelandic Opera and The Reykjavik Big Band. In addition, it serves as the main Icelandic cultural and conference centre and hosts numerous concerts, conferences, meetings, cultural events and receptions throughout the year. Within you can find two restaurants Munnharpan and Kolabrautin in addition to Harpas own catering service. Also a record store “12 Tónar”, a design and souvenir shop “Epal” and a book and flower store “Upplifun”. Tourists can find more information in the basement at the Geysirland information desk. In the fall of 2012, Harpa was awarded the MICE Report as the best conference centre in northern Europe. Over 3 million people have already visited Harpa.
Mies van der R Harpa is the win Union Prize for — Mies van der
More informatio www.en.harpa
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Explore Re latest land
GPS: 64° 8,986’N, 21° 55,949’W
Guided tours daily Harpa Concert Hall and Co
Harpa tour ISK 1.750 Every day at 15:30 (and at 1
A full event calender and ticketing service can be found at www.harpa.is The Harpa tour is not to be missed and is offered mon-fri at 15:30 and on the weekend at both 11:00 and 15:30. The tour takes 45 minutes and costs ISK 1.750 kr. per person. The tour will take you behind the scenes of the house and you will learn all about the design and construction of the Harpa. It is possible to arrange for special tours for groups and schools.
Mies van der Rohe 2013 Harpa is the winner of the Union Prize for Contempor — Mies van der Rohe Awar
More information at www.en.harpa.is/guided
The building is open everday from: 8:00 – 24:00 The box office is open weekedays: 10:00 – 18:00 and weekends: 12:00 – 18:00 (Longer on concert nights) Austurbakki 2 101 Reykjavík, Iceland harpa@harpa.is Telephone: (+354 528 5000) Box office: (+354 528 5050)
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Víkin - The MAritime Museum
GPS: 64° 9,198’N, 21° 56,883’W
Icelands past, present and future are closely tied up with fishing and seafaring; dominating the atmosphere of seaside villages all around the island and closely intertwined with the character of the nation. Therefore it is impossible to truly get to know Iceland without getting to know its fishing history. The Maritime Museum´s exhibitions reveal the Icelandic maritime history throughout the ages. The museum´s main exhibitions illustrate the development from rowing boats to modern trawlers and the other main exhibition tells of trading vessels and routes and the construction of Reykjavik Harbour.
Beside these main exhibitions guests can browse through various visiting exhibitions. Docked to a special pier is the Coast Guard cruiser Ódinn. Ódinn participated in all the three Cod Wars against Britain in the latter part of the 20th century. Ódinn was also used effectively as a rescue vessel, towing nearly 200 vessels to safety and saving the crews of grounded or sinking ships. At the Museum´s Café, which offers traditional Icelandic delicacies, guests can sit outdoors and sip their drinks while they gaze at the old harbour. The museum is a short 10 minute walk from the city center.
Address: Grandagarður 8, SjóminjaSafnið í Reyk javík 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 517 9400 E-mail: sjominjasafn@sjominjasafn.is www.sjominjasafn.is
VÍKIN
Opening hours: Daily 11.00-17.00 Admission: ISK 1.300 kr.
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GPS: 64°07,756N 21°55,123W THe saga museum
H I ST O R I C A L EXH IB IT IO N • C A F É • T H E A T R E • S H OP
The Saga Museum recreates key moments in Icelandic history, moments that have determined the fate of our people. In this vibrant, multidimensional museum you learn about Icelandic history in a way that is both educational and enjoyable.
SAGA MUSEUM Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel.: (+354) 511 1517 Open: Daily from 10:00 to 18:00
W W W . S A G A M U S E U M. IS – 33 –
the greater reykjavík area
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 S N Ú
MUSEUM Nesstofa - National Museum's Historic Buldings Collection The Pharmacy Museum Hafnarfjörður Museum Hafnarborg - The Center of Culture and Fine Art Museum of Design and Applied Art Kópavogur Art Museum - Gerðarsafn The Icelandic Music History Museum The Natural History Museum of Kópavogur Reykjavík Botanic Garden Árbær Museum Gerðuberg Cultural Center Gljúfrasteinn - Laxness Museum Samkaup Strax. Museum Guide available Nettó. Museum Guide available Samkaup Úrval. Museum Guide available
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pages 36 36 44 45 42-43 40 38 41 37 39 38 46
The Pharmacy Museum, Nesstofa by Seltjörn Pond
GPS: 64°09,468N 22°00,448W
The Pharmacy Museum and The Herbal Garden are located in Nes that is situated in a beautiful nature reserve and recreation area on the tip of the Reykjavík peninsula. It is located close to Nesstofa which was built in 17611767 as the official residence of Iceland’s first Medical Doctor and first Pharmacist. In the Pharmacy Museum one can learn about Pharmacy in the 20th century. The Herbal Garden of Nes is medicinal and culinary garden comunicating the history of herbal medicine. The Pharmacy Museum has charming exhibitions displaying the history of pharmacy in the 20th century. An exhibition will open in June at Nesstofa which is one of the most remarkable stone mason houses in Iceland. The exhibition will focus on the house itself, the story behind the construction and it‘s role in Icelandic medical history throughout the years. Address: Safnatröð 3, 170 Seltjarnarnes Tel: (+354) 561 7100 / www.lfi.is pharmmus@internet.is
Opening hours June - August: Tue., Thu., Sat., & Sun. From 13-17 Admittance: Free Transport: Bus 11
www.thjodminjasafn.is/minjar-og-rannsoknir/husasafn/ – 36 –
LIMITED
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GPS: 64°08,404N 21°52,277W Reykjavik Botanic Garden
The Botanic Garden is an outdoor collection of living plants. The garden’s main role is to conserve plants for education, research and delight. It conserves some 5000 plant species in eight plant collections. The collections give an idea of the enormous diversity of vegetation in the northern temperate zone. In summer there is a variety of events in the
Botanic Garden and group receptions are available throughout the year. The Café is popular and well known for its delicious treats with ingredients grown in the garden and served in beautiful surroundings. You can find opening hours for Café Flora on the café website, www.cafeflora.is. Welcome to The Reykjavik Botanical Garden.
Opening hours: Summer: 10.00-22.00 Winter: 10.00-15.00 Free admission
Address: Laugardalur, IS-104 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 411 8650 e-mail: botgard@reykjavik.is www.grasagardur.is
You can find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/grasagardur – 37 –
Gerduberg Cultural Center
Gerduberg Cultural Center offers a varied program of cultural events for people of all ages. Exhibitions in five different spaces, programme for children, literature, theatre and music. Excellent facilities for meetings and conferences, social programme, library and a café.
GPS: 64°06,267N 21°48,899W
Address: Gerðuberg 3-5 IS-111 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 575 7700 e-mail: gerduberg@reykjavik.is www.gerduberg.is Opening hours: See webpage www.gerduberg.is
Admittance: Free
The Icelandic Music History Museum
GPS: 64°06,757N 21°54,582W
The goal of the museum is to collect, document and distribute information on Icelandic music, old and new. Additionally two or three special exhibits will be produced annually.
Address: Hábraut 2, 200 Kópavogur Tel: (+354) 570 1693 e-mail: ts@tonlistarsafn.is www.tonlistarsafn.is
Opening hours: 10.00-16.00 weekdays Admission: Free
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GPS: 64°07,147N 21°48,934W
ÁrbæR museum
Welcome to Árbær Open Air Museum Árbær was an established farm well into the 20th century, and the museum opened there in 1957. Árbær is now an open air museum with more than 20 buildings which form a town square, a village and a farm. Most of the buildings have been relocated from central Reykjavík. Árbær Open Air Museum tries to give a sense of the architecture and way of life and lifestyles in Reykjavík and during summer visitors can see domestic animals. There are many exhibitions and events held at the Museum which highlight specific periods in Reykjavík’s history. There is something for everyone at Árbær Open Air Museum.
Address: Kistuhylur, IS-110 Reykjavík. Tel: (+354) 411 6300 e-mail: citymuseum@reykjavik.is www.reykjavikmuseum.is
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Opening hours: Summer season: June – August open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Winter season: Sept. - May open by arrangement. Guided tours in English every weekday at 1pm. – 39 –
Kópavogur Art Museum – Gerðarsafn
GPS: 64°06,726N 21°54,603W
Kópavogur Art Museum-Gerðarsafn is situated in a beautiful building in the center of Kópavogur, a town immediately south of Reykjavík. The museum was built in memory of Gerður Helgadóttir, a pioneer of modern sculpture and stained glass in Iceland. Fourteen hundred works by this talented artist were donated to the museum. Other noteworthy gifts to the museum are large collections of works by the 20th century artists Barbara Árnason, Magnús Á. Árnason and Valgerður Briem. One of the most important private collections of Icelandic art from the last century, collected by Þorvaldur Guðmundsson and his wife Ingibjörg Guðmundsdóttir, is in the custody of Kópavogur Art Museum. It includes many paintings and drawings by Jóhannes S. Kjarval as well as works by all major artists of the first half of the last century. Some exhibitions in Gerðarsafn feature works from these collections, others are mostly Icelandic modern and contemporary art.
Specially designed souvenirs, inspired by the works of Gerður Helgadóttir, are sold in the museum shop.
Address: Hamraborg 4, IS-200 Kópavogur Tel: (+354)-5700440, Fax: (+354)-5700441 e-mail: gerdarsafn@kopavogur.is www.gerdarsafn.is Opening hours: Daily except Mondays 11:00-17:00 Admission fee: 500 kr. Free entry on Wednesdays
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GPS: 64°06,710N 21°54,511W
Natural History Museum of Kópavogur
Exhibition themes; Icelandic fauna, with emphasis on birds and molluscs, and Icelandic rocks and minerals. On display are also mammals, crustaceans, echinoderms and live fish in small aquariums. You may also have a look at live „marimos“, a large spherical form of green algae, only known from three lakes in the world, including the famous bird lake Mývatn in NE-Iceland.
Close by the museum, pay a visit to Kópavogur Church, placed on top of Borgarholt rocky hill overlooking the capital area. Borgarholt is protected as a natural monument as it provides unusually clear evidence for glacial retreat at the end of last Ice age. On Borgarholt you will find many species of wild Icelandic plants.
Address: Hamraborg 6a, IS-200 Kópavogur Tel: 5700430, e-mail: natkop@natkop.is www.natkop.is
Natural History Museum of Kópavogur
Opening hours: Monday-Thursday 10.00-19.00, Friday 11.00-17.00, Saturday13.00-17.00
Admission: Free of charge
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Museum of Design and Applied Art
The Museum is located in Garðabær, a municipality of roughly 15 000 inhabitants, situated in the heart of the Capital area. Four to six exhibitions are hosted every year, both on Icelandic and international design. This is the only museum in Iceland that specializes in the field of Icelandic design and applied art, with a collection of 1500 objects such as furniture, graphic design, textile, clothing, ceramics, glass and jewellery. The museum store has Icelandic design and design books on offer – you can also sit down for a coffee.
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From past exhibitions
Direction from Reykjavik: To Keflavik Airport and the Blue Lagoon Access by car: Route 40 and 41. Bus: # 1, stop: „Ásgarður“
GPS: 64°05,345N 21°55,220W
Garðatorg 1, 210 Garðabær www.honnunarsafn.is Tel: (+354) 512 1525 Open Tue – Sun 12-5 pm Closed Mondays
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Hafnarfjörður Museum
GPS: 64°04,199N 21°57,607W
Hafnarfjörður Museum is a museum of cultural artefacts and photographs of Hafnarfjörður town. The cultural area represented in Hafnarfjörður Museum is the town of Hafnarfjörður and the surrounding region. Hafnarfjörður Museum consists of six houses and at all times there are nine exhibitions shedding light on the history and culture of the area.
Address: Vesturgata 8, 220 Hafnarfjörður, Tel: (+354) 585 5780, museum@hafnarfjordur.is
Opening hours: The museum is open daily 11.00 – 17.00 in summer (June, July, August) and at weekends 11.00-17.00 in winter. At other times open for parties by arrangement. – 44 –
GPS: 64°04,068N 21°57,298W
Hafnarborg
Hafnarborg – The Hafnarfjörður Centre of Culture and Fine Art was established in 1983. The museum has two exhibition galleries with changing exhibitions. The exhibitions explore works by leading Icelandic artists, ranging from contemporary art to works by the pioneers of Icelandic art. The collection is mostly Icelandic with emphasis on works by Eiríkur Smith (b.1925) a leading 20th century artist in
Iceland. Collection exhibitions are a regular part of the program. Hafnarborg has a small museum shop with books and contemporary design products and a restaurant serving price winning healthfood. Hafnarborg offers regular lunchtime concerts and concerts with chamber and contemporary music. Guided tours in English upon request
Works by Hrafnkell Sigurðsson
Address: Strandgata 34, IS 220 Hafnarfjörður Tel: (+354) 585 5790 e-mail: hafnarborg@hafnarfjordur.is www.hafnarborg.is
Eiríkur Smith 1981
Opening hours: 12.00-17.00 Thursdays 12.00-21.00 Closed Tuesdays Admission: Free – 45 –
Gljúfrasteinn – Laxness museum
Gps: 64°10,859N 21°34,900W
Gljúfrasteinn was the home of writer Halldór Laxness (Nobel Prize for Literature in 1955) and his family for more than half a century. He was a prolific writer during his long career and his books have been translated into 43 languages and published in more than 500 editions. The house is open as a museum, where the author´s home is preserved just as it was when he lived and worked there.
In the beautiful countryside right next to Gljúfrasteinn, visitors can take walks to see where Laxness spent his childhood and, in later life, sought his inspiration.
Address: Gljúfrasteinn, 270 Mosfellsbær Tel: (+354) 586 8066 E-mail: gljufrasteinn@gljufrasteinn.is www.gljufrasteinn.is www.facebook.com/gljufrasteinn.is Opening hours :
In the reception building you can watch a multimedia presentation dedicated to Laxness’s life and work. Laxness lived for almost the entire 20th century and his life and works reflect the cultural, political and intellectual movements that shook and transformed the world during the century. Books and souvenirs are for sale in the museum gift shop.
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Summer: Daily 9.00 - 17.00 Winter (September 1 st – May 31st) Daily except on Mondays 10.00 – 17.00 Closed during weekends from November until the end of February but group tours are available by appointment. Admission: Adults ISK 800, seniors and disabled ISK 500 and children under 18 free admission. Tour operators get a 10% discount when they book for groups or individuals.
Audio tours of the house are available in Icelandic, English, German, Swedish and Danish. A folder is available in French, with detailed information about the house, objects and works of art. Tours can be offered in other languages by prior arrangement with the staff. – 46 –
Reykjanes
MUSEUM 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 S N
The Garðskagi Folk Museum Suðurnes Science and Learning Center The Reykjanes Herritage Museum -Duushús The Reykjanes Maritime Centre -Duushús The Reykjanes Art Museum Giganta The Icelandic Museum of Rock 'N' Roll Viking World Samkaup Strax. Museum Guide available Nettó. Museum Guide available
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pages 51 50 48 48 48 48 49 49
Giganta
Address: At the marina in Gróf Tel: (+354) 421 3796 & (+354) 421 6700 skessan@reykjanesbaer.is skessan.is
GPS: 64°00,546N 22°33,271W
Opening hours: Daily 10.00 – 17.00.
Free admittance
Viking World
GPS: 63°58,528 N 22°31,649W
Address: Viking ship. The North Atlantic Saga. Settlement Zoo. Víkingabraut 1, IS-260 Reykjanesbær Tel: (+354) 422 2000 info@vikingaheimar.is vikingaheimar.is – 48 –
Opening hours: Daily 12.00 – 17.00. Admission Fee: ISK 1.200 Free for children under the age of 12
Zoo: Free admittance
GPS: 64°00,479N 22°33,448W
Duushus, Cultural Center
Address: Duusgata 2 – 8 , IS-230 Reykjanesbær Tel: (+354) 421 3796 e-mail: duushus@reykjanesbaer.is Free admittance
8 Exhibition Halls: n The Reykjanes Maritime Center n The Reykjanes Art Museum n The Reykjanes Heritage Museum
Opening hours: Mon.-Fri. 12.00-17.00 & Weekends 13.00-17.00
The Icelandic Rock & Roll Museum
GPS: 63° 59,383’N, 22° 33,009’W
The Icelandic Rock & Roll Museum is a new museum which opened in 2014. The museum spans the history of popular music in Iceland from 1930-2013. The story is told with texts, photographs, video footage, memorabilia, video projectors and tablet computers.
Address: Hjallavegur 2 260 Reykjanesbær Sími 777 5532 info@rokksafn.is rokksafn.is
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Opening hours: 12:00-17:00 Admission: 1500 kr. Free admittance for children under the age of 12
Sudurnes Science and Learning Center
Sudurnes Science and Learning Center offers two exciting exhibitions at Garðvegur 1, Sandgerði. If you are interested in the Icelandic nature and wildlife, sea creatures and research related to the areas, the Sudurnes Science and Learning Center is a place you must visit! We are too close to the airport to miss, only 5 minutes by car. In the nature gallery you can look at and touch various stuffed animals from the Icelandic wildlife and see live sea creatures.
GPS: 64°02,475N 22°42,777W
There is also a collection of plants and shells in addition to the only stuffed walrus in Iceland. In the historical gallery you can visit the magnificent exhibition Attraction of the Poles on the work, life and death of the French medical doctor and polar scientist Jean-Baptiste Charcot. His research ship, Pourquoi-Pas? perished by the coast of Iceland in 1936. A model of the ship is part of the exhibition.
Address: Garðvegur 1, 245 Sandgerði
Opening hours
Tel: (+354) 423 7555 & (+354) 423 7551
Summer (May 1st – September 30th)
E-mail: thekkingarsetur@thekkingarsetur.is
Mon. – Fri.: 10:00 to 16:00 / Sat. and Sun.: 13:00 to 17:00
www.thekkingarsetur.is
Winter (October 1st – April 30th)
Admission fee
Mon. – Fri.: 10:00 to 14:00
Adults: 600 ISK / Children (age 6-15): 300 ISK
Flexible opening hours can be arranged for groups –
Senior citizens: 400 ISK /Groups (10+): 500 ISK.
please call (+354) 423 7551
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GPS: 64°04,908N 22°41,319W
Address: Skagabraut 100 IS-250 Garður Tel: 4227220 e-mail: gardskagi@simnet.is www.svgardur.is
Opening hours: April 1st - Oktober 31st daily 13:00 - 17:00. At other timers according to an agreement
The Garðskagi Folk Museum
The Garðskagi Folk Museum first opened its doors, November 26. in the year 1995. The Museum is divided into a maritime museum and a local history museum. Various interesting artifacts from the story of Garður can be found in the museum that demonstrate the way that farming was done, at land and at sea. The impressive motor collection is what sets Garðskagi Folk Museum apart from any other museum, with its 85 different motors, that all work. Artifacts from life on land include: many farming artifacts, a century old turning lathe, a homemade organ which is also more than a century old and other socially related artifacts.
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the west
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 S N Ú
MUSEUM Akranes Museum Centre Regional Museum in Garðar Iceland's Sports Museum Iceland's Mineral Kingdom The Settlement Centre in Borgarnes Borgarfjörður Museum Agricultural Museum at Hvanneyri Snorrastofa Cultural Centre in Reykholt The Icelandic Goat Centre Háafell Norwegian House - Regional Museum Haraldur Sigurðsson's Volcano Museum The Library of Water Leifsbúð. Viking Settlement Exhibition Eiríksstaðir. Ruins from a Viking home Dalamanna Folk Museum Laugar Ólafsdalur Hólar og dalir Samkaup Strax. Museum Guide available Nettó. Museum Guide available Samkaup Úrval. Museum Guide available
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pages 54 54 54 54 56 55 57 58 57 62-63 54 62-63 60 59 60 61 61
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Akranes Museum Centre
GPS: 64°19,186N 22°02,654W
At the Akranes Museum Centre you can visit four museums at once. These museums are: n Akranes Folk Museum n Iceland’s Sports Museum n Iceland´s Mineral Kingdom and n Various Exhibitions A collection of old houses and boats are exhibited at the Akranes Museum Centre. In the Museum Hall you will find a café, museum shop and tourist information.
Address: Garðar 300 Akranes Tel: (+354) 431 1255 & (+354) 431 5566 e-mail: museum@museum.is www.museum.is
Opening hours: Summertime: Open every day 10.00-17.00 Wintertime: Open every day 13.00-17.00 Admittance fee: Görðum, Adult ISK 500 300 Akranes Sími: 431 5566 / 431 1255 Seniors (67+) ISK 300 www.museum.is museum@museum.is Children (under16) no charge. Groups (10 +) ISK 300 per person – 54 –
Borgarfjörður Museum
Photo: Ómar Örn Ragnarsson
GPS: 64°32,203N 21°55,220W
Children Throughout a Century - Oh to be a bird! Children Throughout a Century is a unique exhibition centered on the life and surroundings of children in Iceland in the 20th century. The photographs are presented in an unusual way, mounted on walls in which cabinets behind some photographs contain objects and further information. Guests can move around the walls and discover how children lived, laughed and worked over the past 100 years. Oh to be a bird! is a fantastic exhibition containing mounted birds from Icelandic nature,
Welcome to Borgarfjordur!
Address: Bjarnarbraut 4-6 IS 310 Borgarnes. Tel: (+354) 433 7200 e-mail: safnahus@safnahus.is www.safnahus.is
Opening hours: Summer: Every day from 13.00-17.00 Winter: Open by agreement Admission fee: Adults ISK 900, free entry for children. Discount available for senior citizens, disabled and groups (10+) – 55 –
The Settlement Centre in Borgarnes
GPS: 64°32,146N 21°55,385W
Nestled in the picturesque coastal village of Borgarnes just an hour north of Reykjavik, the Settlement Centre is sited in the heartland of one of Iceland´s most famous medieval tales: Egils Saga. The Settlement Centre is home to two exhibitions. One traces the Settlement of Iceland while the other graphically retells the epic adventures of the hero of Egils Saga, the Viking warrior poet Egill Skallagrimsson. The museum is a wealth of information and gives a wonderful insight into Iceland´s history and a firm context in which to place your Icelandic visit. The prime objective of the Centre is to dramatically recreate the fascinating sagas surrounding the birth of this island nation and bring to life Egils saga one of Iceland´s most important cultural treasures that took place in the area. The aim is to make the old sagas accessible to all ages, scholars and non scholars alike. The Centre is not a museum, rather an installation. Multi-media and theatrical techniques are employed to help the visitor experience first hand the excitement of setting off over the open ocean for lands unknown. Audio guides lead the visitor on a voyage of discovery and are available in 12 languages. A
complete circuit of each exhibition takes about 30 minutes. Now visitors are offered the opportunity of reliving these remarkable sagas at the very sites where the events actually took place. Aided by a living commentary from a smart phone, the visitor is taken on a self-guided tour around some of the key locations of Egils Saga. The SMART GUIDE can be downloaded free of charge to your Iphone or Android smartphone from the website locatify. com/smartguide/. The tour takes about one and a half hour and is available in four languages; Icelandic, Norwegian, English and German. An ideal opportunity for the independent traveller to enjoy the best of a guided tour on their own terms.
Address: Brákarbraut 13 - 15, IS-310 Borgarnes Tel: (+354) 437 1600 & 895 5460 e-mail: landnam@landnam.is www.settlementcentre.is – 56 –
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Opening hours: Open all year from 10am – 9pm
GPS: 64° 33,882’N, 21° 45,842’W
The Agricultural Museum of Iceland
The Agricultural Museum of Iceland presents the agricultural heritage and seeks to explain the history of Icelandic agriculture. The museum has an extensive collection of farm artifacts - farm equipments and machinery which goes back to 1880. The museum is located in the cultural landscape at one of the first modern farms in Iceland at the Hvanneyri Agricultural School (founded in 1889).
Address: Hvanneyri IS-311 Borgarnes Tel: 844 7740 e-mail: bjarnig@lbhi.is www.landbunadarsafn.is GPS: 63° 56,239’N, 20° 59,757’W
Opening hours: June - August 12.00-17.00 During the winter time, The Agricultural Museum is open according to an agreement. The icelandic goat centre Photo by Guðbjörg Harpa Ingimundardóttir
Visitors will be kindly greeted by the resident goats and their kids, and you can even get the chance to foster one and participate in the protection of the Icelandic goat. In addition to learning about the Icelandic goat, The Icelandic Goat Centre has a cafe, a rose garden with 180 different types of roses and a farmers market where you can buy meat, cheese and beauty products straight from the farm. Over the summertime we have 190 goats, 200 kids, 30 sheep, 35 hens, 7 silk hens, 6 horses, 2 dogs and 3 cats. Address: Opening hours: Háafelli, Hvítársíða. Open from June 1st - August 31.st 320 Reykholt. from 13.00 - 18.00. All other times Tel: (+354) 845-2331 open by request. E-mail: haafell@gmail.com Admission: ISK 1000kr for Adults. Website: www.geitur.is ISK 500 kr. for ages 7-17 years old (Free for 0-6 years old). ISK 800 kr. for senior citizens and groups (20+). ISK 500 kr. School trips pr. child. – 57 –
Snorrastofa cultural centre in Reykholt
GPS: 64°39,879N 21°17,536W
Snorrastofa was founded in the memory of Snorri Sturluson, Iceland‘s most important sagawriter, chieftain and lawspeaker, who settled in Reykholt 1206 and was murdered there in the fall 1241. Snorralaug (Snorri´s pool) is the most famous ancient structure in Iceland. Snorrastofa manages research projects, runs a library, a gift shop and provides exhibitions and reception for tourists. The Reykholt Music Festival , is an annual event in the church, the last weekend in July.
Address: Reykholt in Borgarfjörður IS 311 Borgarnes Tel: (+354) 433 8000 e-mail: snorrastofa@snorrastofa.is www.snorrastofa.is
Opening hours: May 1st. - September 30th: Everyday 10.00-18.00 October 1st. - April 30th: Weekdays 10.00-17.00 and by request Admission: ISK 1.200 kr. / Seniors (+67) and Groups ISk 1000 kr. – 58 –
GPS: 65°3,516´N 21°32,3104´W
Eiríksstaðir In Haukadal
Archeological research in the ruins of Eiríksstaðir discovered a dwelling from the 10th century and ancient Icelandic legends say that Eric the Red lived at Eiríksstaðir in Haukadal. Eric the Red was the first man to settle Greenland after being made an outlaw in his native Iceland. His son Leif Erikson was born at Eiríksstaðir, would become the first European to discover the New World, or what is now known as America. This is a living museum where modern day Vikings demonstrate the lifestyle of a 1000 years ago, sharing their crafts and knowledge. The museum has excellent facilities, including a museum shop and a café.
Address: Opening hours: Eiríksstaðir, 371 Búðardal ur Summer: 01/06—31/08. 9:00-18:00 Tel: (+354) 661 0403 Winter: After agreement siggijok@simnet.is Admission: Adults ISK 1.250 kr., VisitDalir.is Groups (10 or more) ISK 1.000 kr., eiriksstadir.is Children (12 years or younger) Free – 59 –
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Dalamanna folk museum
GPS: 65°14,7569´N 21°48,1503´W
At the museum you will find exciting exhibitions on the daily life of the people of t he Dalir region from the old to the new. Emphasis is put on the handcraft, inventions, culture and the ways of living of the inhabitants of the Dalir region. Address: Laugar in Sælingsdalur, 371 Búðardal Tel: (+354) 434 1328 & (+354 430 4700) safnamal@dalir.is VisitDalir.is
Opening hours: Summer: 01/06 - 31/08. 13-18.00 Winter: Open on request Admission: Free donation.
leifsbúð
GPS: 65°6,6310´N 21°46,2873´W
In Leifsbúð you can find an exhibition on Viking settlements in the west, a tourist information center and a cafe. Located in the cafe, is a raised model of the surrounding area that gives you an overview of local historical sites. On the walls you can see the history of Búðardalur in pictures and writings. Leifsbúð is located in a beautiful spot by the harbour in Búðardalur. Address: Opening hours: Búðarbraut 1, 370 Búðardalur Summer: 15/05 - 15/09. 12 - 18.00 Winter: 16/09 - 14/05. 12 - 18.00 Tel: (+354) 434 1441 & (+354) 845 2477 leifsbud@dalir.is Admission: Free donation VisitDalir.is – 60 –
GPS: 66° 4, 088’N 23° 7,644’W
Ólafsdalur by Gilsfjörður; eco and slow travel site
Ólafsdalur is a small valley, surrounded by high mountains, where the first agricultural school in Iceland was established in 1880. The beautiful school-building from 1896 is open to the public. Exhibitions about the history of the school and art exhibiton. Ólafsdalur organic vegetables for sale. Educational trail and interesting walking paths. Remains of many other buildings and man made remains from 1880-1900. The Ólafsdalur Festival will be held in August 10th.
Address: Ólafsdalur við Gilsfjörð Situated just 6 km from the main road across Gilfsjörður. Sími: (+354) 896 1930
Opening Hours: Open 12.00 - 17.00 June 28th-August 10th. Admission: ISK 600 kr www.olafsdalur.is DALIR og HÓLAR 2014 / COLOR
Address: Ólafsdalur in Gilsfjörð, and the project’s exhibition sites in Reykholar and Dalir commune Tel: (+354) 896 1930 & (+354) 692 1194 dalirogholar@gmail.com Opening Hours: July 5th 2014 - August 10th 2014 - 13:00-17:00 – 61 –
The Art exhibition DALIR og HÓLAR 2014 / COLOR wishes to encourage tourists, visitors and the local people to enjoy the landscape and culture of the Reykholar and Dalir region. The exhibition sites are spread along the area and the project is in collaboration with individuals and institutions within the area. The exhibition thus invites visitors to travel around the area through the positioning of the work in different locations. The catalogue for the exhibition is at the same time a site map and a guidebook for the exhibition - see website: http://english-dalirogholar.nyp.is/
Stykkishólmur
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GPS: 65°07,722N 22°72,712W
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the westfjords
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
MUSEUM Egill Ólafsson Museum in Hnjótur Samúel Jónsson’s Sculptures in Selárdalur The Jón Sigurðsson Memorial Museum Machine Shop, Museum and Workshop The Nonesense Museum The Old Bookstore in Flateyri International Doll Museum The Exhibition of Dried Fish Natural History Museum in Bolungarvík Ósvör Maritime Museum The Westfjords Botanical Gardens Westfjords Heritage Museum Ísafjörður Art Museum Ísafjörður Museum of Photography The Arctic Fox Centre The Windmill and House of Victoria in Vigur
17 18 19 Ú
Litlibær in Skötufjörður Sheep Farming Museum Memorial Museum Kört in Trékyllisvík Samkaup Úrval. Museum Guide available
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pages 66 66 67 67 68 69 69 69 72 73 73 70-71 70-71 70-71 75 74 76 77 76
Egill Ólafsson Museum in Hnjótur
GPS: 65°33,747N 24°09,476W
The Museum of Egill Ólafsson at Hnjótur in Patreksfjörður, displays a unique collection of old items from the Southern Westfjords. The museum shows the history of fishing, farming and everyday life in the area. At the museum is an exhibition about the rescue of the British trawler Dhoon that stranded at Látrabjarg in 1947. At the museum is an attractive cafeteria and tourist information center.
Address:
Opening hours:
Hnjóti, Örlygshöfn
Summer: May 1th to August 31th
IS-451 Patreksfjörður
daily 10.00 - 18.00
Tel: (+354)-456-1511
Winter: By agreement
e-mail: museum@hnjotur.is
Admission: 1.000 ISK for over 12 years
www.hnjotur.is
700 ISK for groups and pensioners
Samúel Jónsson’s Art Museum
GPS: 65°47,300N 23°59,411W
The association for the renovation of Samúel Jónsson’s art museum in Selárdalur has been working on the restoration of Samúel’s statues and buildings for some years. Samúel’s house is still to be restored and will include a shop and a guest-apartment. Address: Brautarholti, Selárdalur in Arnarfjörður Tel: 6987533 e-mail: olafur@sogumidlun.is www.sogumidlun.is/pdf/samuel_net.pdf
Opening hours: Open in the Summer Admission: Adults IS 500, free for children under 12 years – 66 –
GPS: 65°45,512N 23°27,441W
The Jón Sigurdsson Museum
Hrafnseyri in Arnarfjord in the Westfjords of Iceland, is a distinguished place in the history of Iceland. It is the birthplace of Jón Sigurðsson (1811-1879), the principal champion of Iceland’s struggle for independence from Danish rule in the 19th century. Jón wanted both to liberate the country from the Danish state and the Icelandic people from the old society and it’s economic system in which they were living. Jón’s name will always be linked to the establishment of the Icelandic state, and after his death in 1879, he became a symbol of the Icelandic nation. There is also a turfhouse in Hrafnseyri, which is a copy of the house in which Jón grew up. Coffe is served in the turfhouse. There is also a charming wooden church at Hrafnseyri which was consecrated in 1886.
Address: Hrafnseyri við Arnarfjörð 465 Bíldudalur Tel: (+354) 456 8260 & (+354) 845 5518 e-mail: hrafnseyri@hrafnseyri.is www.hrafnseyri.is GPS: 66° 4, 088’N 23° 7,644’W
Opening hours: The museum is open from June 1st. - September 8th. See website for details.
the old blacksmith’s workshop
The Old Blackmsith’s Workshop was founded in 1913 and was the first of its kind in Iceland. It is still operating in its original shape, now as a living museum. An amazing atmosphere for all ages.
Address: 470 Þingeyri Tel: (+354) 896 3291 og 848 4878 byggdarsafn@isafjordur.is
Opening Hours: Open May 15th - Sept. 15th, Everyday from 9 - 18. Admission: Adults ISK 800 kr., Seniors ISK 650 kr. – 67 –
The Nonsense-Museum
GPS: 66°2’54”N 23°30’44”W
The Nonsense-Museum is a museum of a series of weird things and collections gathered from individuals with collector mania. One example is an incredible collection of more than a hundred Police caps from all over the world; a collection of ship models including an amazing big (1:100) wooden model of the Titanic; a series of tractor, excavator and payloader models in a setting of work areas; an immense collection of specially packed sugar cubes and sugar sachets; a teaspoon collection sourced from all over the world. There are also collections of wartime tobacco packets, match-boxes and much more. A museum full of odds and ends and rarities. This museum is well loved by children as well as grown ups.
Address: Hafnarstræti 11, 425 Flateyri Tel: (+354) 894-8836 e-mail: dellusafnid@simnet.is www.facebook.com/Dellusafnid
Opening hours: Summer: Mon. - Fri. 12.30–17.30 Sat. - Sun. 13.00 - 16.00 Winter: By agreement Admission: ISK 700 13 years +. Free entry for children (0-12years) and senior citizens – 68 –
GPS: 66°02,902N 23°30,740W
The Old Bookstore
The seaside village of Flateyri has a history of 150 years. In the 1890s the whaling station at Sólbakki played an important role in the growth of the village. Most of the houses at Flateyri’s seafront street, Hafnarstræti, were built between 1880 and 1915. • Exhibitions by Minjasjóður Önundarfjarðar are housed in the Old Bookstore, Hafnarstræti 3-5, and visitors can have a look at the old merchant family’s living quarters in the same building. Books are sold by the kilo in the store, which also sells souvenirs and toys. • An Exhibition about dried fish and stockfish can be found in the black warehouse. • 16 signs with information about the village and historical events have been erected in the village by the association Hús og fólk. MP3 players, with more extensive information, will be available for rent at the Old Bookstore or the N-1 gas station.
• The hand craft association Purka, Hafnarstræti 11, manages The International Doll Museum.
• Coffee, hot chocolate and cakes are available for puchase inside the merchant family’s living quarters Address: Opening hours: Hafnarstræti 3-5, 425 Flateyri Summer: Tuesday-Sunday Tel: (+354) 865-6695 and by agreement e-mail: vestur@vestur.is Winter: By agreement www.facebook.com/bokabudinflateyri Admission: Donations – 69 –
westfjords heritage museum
GPS: 66°04,088N 23°07,644W
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GPS: 66°04,577N 23°07,583W
culture house
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Natural History Museum in Bolungarvík
GPS: 66°09,440N 23°14,948W
Do you want to see a polar bear, or jaw bones from the biggest animal on earth? Or pieces of huge trees from ancient Icelandic forests? Are you interested in birds, eggs, seals, foxes or minerals? Come for a visit.
Address: Vitastíg 3 IS-415 Bolungavík Tel: (+354) 456 7507 & (+354) 456 7005 e-mail: nabo@nabo.is www.nabo.is
Opening hours: Summer: June-August daily 9.00-17.00 & weekends 10.00-17.00. Winter: Same but weekends closed or by request. Admittance fee: Adults ISK 950, seniors (67+) and groups (10+) ISK 680, 16 years and under free of charge .
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Ósvör Maritime Museum
GPS: 66°09,023N 23°12,918W
Address: Ósvör in Bolungarvík 415 Bolungarvík Ósvör is a reconstruction of a 19th Tel: (+354) 892-5744 and (+354) 456-7005 (office) Century fishing station. The curator, e-mail: osvor@osvor.is www.osvor.is dressed in a traditional fisherman’s outfit, walks visitors through the station showing them the houses, the fishing boat and tools used for fishing and fish processing in days gone by.
GPS: 66° 9,420’N, 23° 15,050’W
Opening hours: Summer: June - August weekdays 9.00-17.00 & weekends 10.00-16.00. Winter: By appointment only Admittance fee: Adults ISK 950, seniors (67+) and groups (10+) ISK 680, 16 years and under free of charge.
The Westfjords botanical gardens
The botanical garden is in the centre of Bolungarvík (by the community centre). Each plant is labelled with its name in Icelandic, Latin, English and German and habitat descriptions are also in English. Symbols show how Icelanders have used wild plants throughout history, as food, in medicine, and in magic.
Address: Aðalstræti 21 IS-415 Bolungavík Tel: (+354) 456-7207 e-mail: grasagardar@grasagardar.is http://www.nave.is/grasagardar_vestfjarda/ Opening hours: Summer: 24 Hours – 73 –
Viktoriahouse in Vigur
GPS: 66°02,855N 22°49,608W
This classically-influenced wooden house was built in 1860 by Sumarliði Sumarliðason, goldsmith. It was originally built adjacent to an older timber house dating from around 1800. There is also a café.
Tel: (+354) 456 5111 • vesturferdir@vesturferdir.is • www.vesturferdir.is Boat-trips to Vigur: Every year daily June 15th - August 31st or by group-requests The Windmill in Vigur
GPS: 66°02,855N 22°49,608W
The only preserved wooden wind-powered grain mill in the country can be found in Vigur. It is said that Daníel Hjaltason goldsmith built the mill around 1860, but it has since been enlarged and improved.
Tel: (+354) 456 5111 • vesturferdir@vesturferdir.is • www.vesturferdir.is Boat-trips to Vigur: Every year daily June 15th - August 31st or by group-requests – 74 –
GPS: 66°01,805N 22°59,396W
The Arctic Fox Centre
The Arctic Fox Centre in Súðavík welcomes you to the world’s only exhibition dedicated to the Arctic fox, Iceland’s only native land mammal, and our base for Arctic fox research. Upon entering our beautiful historical house Eyrardalsbær, our friendly staff can guide you through our exhibition which contains information and items detailing the life, habits and habitats of the Arctic fox as well as information on the research we undertake and a special section dedicated to the history, traditions and culture between the foxes and humans. In the Fox Café you can enjoy home-made waffles, delicious cakes or freshly made vegetarian soup with bread straight from the oven. Our comfy chairs, great coffee and large outdoor area make for relaxed and enjoyable time here with us in our beautiful and peaceful surroundings. The Arctic Fox Centre also serves as the Information Centre for the Súðavíkurhreppur region, and with our local knowledge and free Wi-Fi you can discover many of the hidden treasures a stone’s throw from our doors.
Address: Eyrardalur, Súðavík Tel: (+354) 456-4922 e-mail: melrakki@melrakki.is www.melrakki.is www.arcticfoxcenter.com – 75 –
Opening hours: 09.00 - 20.00 Summer: Spring and Fall: 10.00 - 17.00 Winter: By request Admission fee: ISK 900
Litlibær in Skötufjörður
GPS: 66°02,855N 22°49,608W
Litlibær was built in 1895 and the house is made of timber with stone side walls and grass on the roof. Around 20 people lived in Litlibær at one point and the last inhabitants moved out in 1969. There is a cafe open from May 15th - September 15th from 10.00 - 17.00.
Tel: (+354) 894 4809 • www.thjodminjasafn.is •
Memorial Museum Kört
GPS: 66° 0,734’N, 21° 30,849’W
Kört is a little museum located in the middle of Trékyllisvík. There you can find beautiful art and craft items made by local people out of driftwood, stones and textile alongside with tools, clothing and pictures that tell the story of the people’s ancestors. Come and enjoy live guidance around the museum, look at the handicraft, get information about the area and sit down with a tasty cup of coffee. Address: Trékyllisvík in Strandir 524 Árneshreppur tel: (+354) 451 4025 e-mail: kort@trekyllisvik.is www.trekyllisvik.is
Opening hours : Summer (June 1st – August 31st) Every day 10.00 – 18.00 Winter (Sept. 1 st – May 31st) Opening hours are by an agreement
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GPS: N65° 38.508 W21 35.048
The sheep farming museum
The Sheep Farming Museum is an interesting and entertaining exhibition about the icelandic sheep and sheep farming with a variety of things to do for the whole family. The exhibition, has been very popular ever since it opened in spring 2002, mainly because the exhibition itself concentrates on providing diverse entertainment for all ages. The children can enjoy themselves in their own room, in which are toys and colour books, while the grownups can view the exhibition, and the museum also has a small science room where people
can taka a look at various things through a microscope. One of the main attractions in the Sheep Farming Museum are the lambs which the visitors can feed with milk from a bottle. Sævangur also houses a small and cosy coffee bar where guests can sit down and relax over a cup of coffee and genuine Icelandic cakes and bread. Handicraft- and souvenir store placed in the lobby of Sævangur sells crafts made mostly by locals. The Sheep Farming Museum exhibition, the coffee bar and the handicraft store are open from 10-18 all days during the summer.
Address: Sævangur (by road 68) 510 Hólmavík Sími: (+354) 451-3324 & (+354) 823-3324 e-mail: saudfjarsetur@strandir.is
Opening hours: 1. June – 31. August from: 10-18. During winter by agreement
www.strandir.is/saudfjarsetur – 77 –
the north west 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
MUSEUM Húnvetningar and Strandamenn Folk Museum The Icelandic Seal Centre Þingeyrakirkja Church Sea Ice Exhibition Centre Textile Museum The Salmon Centre The Blönduós Women´s College The Women's College Memorial Exhibition Project Vatnsdæla-The Icelandic Textile Center The Museum of Prophecies - Spákonuhof Árnes Skagaströnd
pages 80 81 82 84 82 84 83 83 83 85 85
12
Skagafjörður Heritage House in Sauðárkrókur
87
13
Skagafjörður Heritage Museum Glaumbær
87
14 15 16
The Curch at Víðimýri The Icelandic Emigration Centre Icelandic Horse History Centre
86 86 88
17
Nýibær at Hóla
88
18 19
The Cathedral at Hólar The Herring Era Museum
88 89
20
The Folk Music Centre
89
21 22 23 24 Ú
The Natural Museum in Ólafsfjörður Hvoll Heritage Museum Birdland Exhibition The House of Shark - Jörundur Hrísey island Samkaup Strax. Museum Guide available
90 91 90 91
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folk museum
We at the Folk museum Byggðasafn Húnvetninga- og Strandamanna welcome you! It was founded fifty years ago and contains a precious collection of rare objects displaying local history and culture.The museum is owned by local authorities in the Húnaflói area. On display are a number of old boats and ships, amongst them the famous shark ship Ófeigur from Ófeigsfjörður. Oil from the sharks was used to light up streetlamps in Europe before the age of electricity. Inside the museum we also show the way Icelanders used to live by displaying the living arrangements inside an old house
Address: Reykjagata 6 by Reykjaskóli IS 500 Staður Tel: (+354) 451 0040 e-mail: reykjasafn@gmail.com www.reykjasafn.is
GPS:65°15,167N 21°03,663W
named Syðsti-Hvammur which used to be near Hvammstangi. Many spectacular pieces can be found inside the museum from the late nineteenth to the early twentieth century. We are working on changing and updating the display so please come and visit an evolving museum. New and exciting crafts from the local community will be on sale at the museum and there is a restaurant on site
Opening hours Summer: May 15th – Sep. 30th daily 10.00-18.00 except Fridays 10.00-21.00. Winter: Tue-Thu 10.00-13.00. Closed in December. On other occasions by agreement. Admission: Adults ISK 1200, Groups 10+ ISK 800. Free for children under 16 years of age. – 80 –
GPS: 65°23,709N 20°56,634W
The Icelandic Seal Centre
The Icelandic Seal Centre is an exhibition- and research centre. At the centre’s exhibition guests can learn about seals and other wildlife of the area, including the notorious Arctic Fox, Eider Duck, famous Puffins, Whales and the abundant sea and inland birds. The Seal Centre is also the Tourist Information Center for West-Húnaþing, Iceland’s number one seal and wildlife watching destination
Address: Strandgata 1 (at the Hvammstangi harbour), IS-530 Hvammstangi Tel: (+354) 4512345 e-mail: selasetur@selasetur.is www.selasetur.is
Opening hours: May 01 - May 14 10.00 - 160.0 May 15 - Sept 15 09.00 - 19.00 Sept 16 - Sept 30 10.00 - 16.00 Otherwise open on request
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Þingeyrakirkja – The church at Þingeyrar
GPS: 65°33,285N 20°24,240W
The church at Þingeyri is one of the most important icelandic churches. It was built of stone in Romanesque style and consecrated 1877. The church possesses many costly treasures. The oldest object in the church is a fine 15th century English alabaster altarpiece. The hexagonal pulpit with a tester and baptismal font is from late 17th century. Þingeyri was an important place from early settlement and is mentioned in the saga literature as a regional assembly site. Next to the church is a large circular structure, believed to be a judgement circle and listed as a heritage site. Address: Opening hours: Þingeyrakirkja Austur-Húnavatnssýsla Summer: June 1st - August 31st 10:00 - 17:00 Winter: Open according to an agreement IS-541 Blönduós A service fee is charged for 14 years old Tel: 895-4473 and up. Discounts for groups and e-mail: holabak@emax.is seniors over 67 years. Textile Museum
GPS: 65°39,430N 20°17,360W
The Textile Museum in Blönduós is the only specifically focused textile museum in Iceland. The museum is located in a beautiful building with good visitor access. It hosts several unique and independent exhibitions of embroideries, Icelandic national costumes, the Halldóra room, which is dedicated to the life and work of Halldóra Bjarnadóttir (1873-1981), and a wool exhibition. Annually the museum hosts a special exhibition of Icelandic textile artists and designers.
Address: Árbraut 29, 540 Blönduósi Tel: (+354) 452 4067 e-mail: textile@textile.is www.textile.is
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st - August 31st, daily 10.00-17.00 Winter: By agreement Admission fee is ISK 900 kr. Free for under 16 years. Discount for groups. – 82 –
GPS: 65° 39,733’N, 20° 17,611’W
THe Blöndós women’s college
The Blöndós Women’s College Heritage Center
Tel: (+354) 8934341/ (+354) 4524310 aingv@simnet.is
The women’s college heritage centre was founded by the friends of the women’s college with support from the local culture fund. The aim of the heritage center is to preserve the history and artifacts from the college that was run for almost a hundred years, from 1879 until 1978. About 3500 girls attended the college and parts of the building have been restored to its original state. Most of the items found in the collection were donated by former students as well as the relatives of Elín Briem who was the colleges first principal. Guided tours of the house and exhibitions are available.
Project Vatnsdæla - The Icelandic Textile Center
The project Vatnsdæla on a tapestry is an idea that came from Jóhanna E. Pálmadóttir. The Tapestry depicts one of the old Icelandic Sagas -the Vatnsdæla Saga which tells of the settlement in Vatnsdalur. An old method of sewing is used and taught to those who participate in the making of the tapestry. Work began in 2011 and the tapestry will be 46m long when it is finished. The name of every person who embroiders or supports the project will be recorded in a book that will accompany the tapestry.
Address: Kvennaskólinn Árbraut 31 540 Blöndós
Tel: (+354) 8984290 www.refill.is /facebook: Vatnsdæla á refli textilsetur@simnet.is
Opening hours: Summer: Tuesday - Sunday 13:00 -17:00 Winter: By agreement. Admission: ISK 500 kr. (ISK 1500 kr. pr. hour when sewing) – 83 –
Sea Ice Center
GPS: 65°39,591N 20°17,995W
Hillebrandt’ s House is one of Iceland’s oldest wooden houses and has a long and interesting history. Today it holds an assortment of information on sea ice. The Sea Ice Center displays a combination of texts, photographs and artifacts related to the Arctic region. Visitors find information about Iceland`s historic struggle with sea ice, sea ice research through time, the weather station in Blönduós and can come face to face with an actual polar bear!
Address: Blöndubyggð 2, 540 Blönduós Tel: 4524848 e-mail: hafis@blonduos.is www.blonduos.is/hafis
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st - August 31st, daily 13.00-17.00 Winter: By agreement
The Salmon Center of Iceland
GPS: 65° 39,629’N, 20° 16,281’W
The Salmon Center of Iceland has a live salmon exhibition in one of the biggest aquariums in Iceland. A movie filmed underwater is on display, also the biggest salmon ever caught in Iceland, children’s area and much more for guests to learn about salmon in Icelandic culture and water.
Address: Efstubraut 1 IS-540 Blönduós Tel: (+354) 452 2900 e-mail: vallih@centrum.is www.laxasetur.is
Opening hours: Summer: June - August 10.00-17.00. Winter: By request. Admission: ISK 900 kr. Adults. ISK 300 kr. for 6-12 year olds. ISK 700 kr. groups pr/person. – 84 –
Skagaströnd
GPS: 65°49,392N 20°18,466W
Árnes Árnes is a unique example of a home and lifestyle of the early 20th century in Iceland. The house is a small wooden house, built at the end of the 19th century and is in large parts as it was in the beginning and the infrastructure is mostly original. The house is made to look as much as possible as Icelandic homes did in the beginning of the 20th century. The furniture are from the local Address: IS-545 Skagaströnd Tel: (+354) 455 2700 e-mail: skagastrond@skagastrond.is www.skagastrond.is
heritage museum or borrowed things from other museums and also some items from the former inhabitants of the house.
Opening hours: Summer: 1. June – 30. August Monday–Saturday 13.00 - 17.00 Winter: By Request Free admission GPS: 65°49,381N 20°18,317W
The Museum of Prophecies The exhibition focuses on Þórdís the fortune-teller, the first named inhabitant of Skagaströnd, who lived there in the late 10th century. A painted tapestry tells the story of Þórdís. Guides lead visitors through Address: Oddagata 6, IS-545 Skagaströnd Tel: (+354) 861 5089 e-mail: dagny@marska.is www.spakona.is
the exhibition which features all kinds of interesting information about prophecies and fortune telling. Visitors can have their fortunes told and their palms read on request. Children can examine Þórdís’s gold chest, where various interesting things are hidden.
Opening hours: Summer: 13.00-18.00, Closed on Mondays Winter: By request
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The Icelandic Emigration Center
GPS: 65°53,945N 19°25,163W
Welcome to the Icelandic Emigration Center at Hofsos. The Center was founded in 1996 and dedicated to commemorate Icelandic emigrants to North America and to promote connections between their descendants and the people of Iceland. The Center now offers four exhibits in three separate buildings, as well as a genealogical information service, library facilities and more. If you are planning a journey to discover the lives of your ancestors, contact us for assistance in identifying family ties. Guided tours are available upon request. Address: 565 Hofsós Tel: (+354) 453 7935 e-mail: hofsos@hofsos.is www.hofsos.is
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st - Sept. 1st 11:00 - 18:00 Winter: By request
Víðimýrarkirkja Church in Skagafjörður
GPS: 65°32,324N 19°28,226W
The church at Víðimýri was built in 1834. It was dedicated to Saint Mary and Saint Peter and is one of the few turf or sod churches in Iceland that is still standing.
Tel: (+354) 530 2200 • thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is • www.thjodminjasafn.is Open June 1st - August 31st daily 9:00-18:00. – 86 –
GPS: 65°36,675N 19°30,285W
The Skagafjörður Heritage Museum
The Skagafjörður Heritage Museum is a centre for the conservation and research on local history and cultural heritage in the Skagafjörður district. It´s exhibitions are located at the Minjahús in Sauðárkrókur and the Glaumbær museum grounds.
Minjahúsið (The Heritage House) in Sauðárkrókur houses a permanent exhibition featuring various workshops of local craftsmen dating to the early 20th century. It is also the venue for the museum’s temporary exhibitions. At the Minjahús you also find an information centre for tourists. There are three historic buildings on the museum grounds in Glaumbær. At the old turf farmhouse you find the museum’s main exhibition depicting everyday life on a manorial estate in the 19th century. Áshús is a late 19th century timber building which houses an exhibition on daily life in the early 20th century as well as the museum’s tea room, which offers traditional cakes and other baked goods. The Gilsstofa is a timber house originally built in 1849 but reconstructed at Glaumbær in 1997. It houses the museum’s main office and a small souvenir shop.
Address: Glaumbær, IS-560 Varmahlíð The Heratige House, Aðalgata 16b 550 Sauðárkrókur Tel: (+354) 453 6173 e-mail: bsk@skagafjordur.is www.skagafjordur.is/byggdasafn www.glaumbaer.is Opening hours Glaumbær: May 20th -Sep. 20th Daily 9.00-18.00 The Heritage House: June 1st -August 31st. Daily 12.00-19.00
0000 000
Exhibitions are open on request out of season. Admittance: ISK 1200 for individuals 15 years or older. A ticket to exhibitions in both Glaumbær and Sauðárkrókur is ISK 1500. – 87 –
welcome to hólar
Icelandic Horse History Centre GPS: 65°43,970N 19°06,739W
Under the auspices of the Icelandic Horse history centre an exhibition is located in the old stables at Holar in Hjaltadal. The exhibition gives a good insight into the history of Icelands’ farmers most valuable servant - the Icelandic horse and it’s connection to daily life in the creation of this island nation.
Address: Hólar in Hjaltadalur Tel: (+354 ) 455 6345 e-mail: sogusetur@sogusetur.is www.sogusetur.is
Historic Buildings Collection – Nýibær at Hólar in Hjaltadalur
Opening hours: Opening hours can be found at www.sogusetur.is Admission: Adults: ISK 900, children 7-16 years: ISK 450, 67+ years: ISK 400. Groups 10+: Adults ISK 700, Children 7-16 years ISK 350 Hóladómkirkja
GPS: 65°44,102N 19°06,791W
GPS: 65°43,993N 19°06,678W
Dating from 1763, it is the oldest church in Iceland. Nýibær is an example of a mediumsized turf farm of the northern type. This type of turf farm developed in the 19th century. Nýibær was built in 1860.
Tel: (+354) 530 2200 thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is www.thjodminjasafn.is
Address: Hólar in Hjaltadalur 551 Sauðárkrókur Tel: (+354) 453 6300 e-mail: biskup@holar.is www.kirkjan.is/holadomkirkja Opening hours: Summer: Daily 10.00-18.00 Winter: By agreement tel. (+354) 895 9850 Admission: Free – 88 –
GPS: 66°08,829N 18°54,829W
The Herring Era Museum
Awarded maritime and industrial museum - where the “glory days” of Iceland’s herring fisheries and industry are brought back to life in three different buildings. Róaldsbrakki, a 1907 salting station and bunkhouse. On Saturdays in July there will be a live outdoor salting show at 15:00 followed by an old fashioned accordion dance. Grána is a 1930s-era fishmeal and oil factory. The Boathouse, the town’s thriving harbour of the 1950s with many old fishing boats at the dock. The Herring Era Museum was the winner of the Icelandic Museum Award 2000 and won the European Museum Award 2004, as Europe’s best new museum of industry and technology.
Address: Snorragata 10 IS-580 Siglufjörður Tel: (+354) 467 1604 & (+354) 698 8415 e-mail: safn@sild.is www.sild.is GPS: 66°09,037N 18°54,384W
Opening hours: Summer: June, July & August 10.00-18.00 Spring and Autumn: 13.00-17.00. Winter: By agreement. Admittance fee: 1.400 ISK. Seniors (67+) and 16 to 20 years old: 800 ISK. Free for children.
The Folk Music Centre
The Folk Music Centre brings Icelandic folk music to life. People from all over Iceland can be seen singing folk songs, playing traditional instruments and performing folk dances. The Folk Music Centre is situated in the house of Rev. Bjarni Thorsteinsson, who’s famous collection of Icelandic folk songs, from the end of the 19th century, was published in 1906.
Address: Norðurgata 1 IS-580 Siglufjörður Tel: (+354) 467 2300 e-mail: setur@folkmusik.is www.folkmusik.is
Opening hours: June 1st - August 31st daily 12.00-18.00. Other opening hours by agreement. Admittance fee: 800 ISK. or combined ticket with entry to The Herring Museum 1.400 ISK.
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Natural Museum in Ólafsfjörður
GPS: 66°04,384N 18°38,811W
The Natural Museum in Ólafsfjörður was established in 1993 and has been evolving ever since. Now it is mainly focused on birds and birdlife and is very varied and interesting. The museum has in total over 200 birds and 100
eggs as well as a Polar Bear, that was shot in Grímsey, a fox in its den, a goat and more. This is a fun museum that is constantly expanding, and probably the only museum in the country with a catalog in over 16 languages.
Address:
Opening hours:
Aðalgata 14
June 1st - August 31st from 14.00-17.00.
IS 625 Ólafsfjörður
Admission during winter and for groups: Tel: (+354) 898 8981
Tel: (+354) 464 9100
Admission: ISK 550 kr., Free for children younger than 16 years old. Senior citizens and the disabled, ISK 450 kr..
Birdland
GPS: 65° 55,432’N, 18° 34,087’W
The exhibition BIRDLAND presents birds in icelandic nature and culture in a new manner for both children and grownups. BIRDLAND attempts to bypass the conventional presentation of natural objects, scientific taxonomy Húsabakki Svarfaðardalur, 621 Dalvík and the solemnity which often characterises exhibitions of this kind. Each bird has its own story to Tel: +354 4661551 tell. Húsabakki lies on the edge of the Svarfaðardalur e-mail: natturusetur@simnet.is Nature Reserve. Walking routes with placards and www.birdland.is bird observation points go from Húsabakki and www.dalvik.is/natturusetrid Dalvík around the reserve . Opening hours Summer: 12.00-17.00 Winter: by appointment Admission: Adults ISK 800, Children ISK 400
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Hvoll Heritage Museum
GPS: 65°58,438N 18°31,973W
The museum’s collections comprises thousands of items, most of them contributed by local people in Dalvik, Svarfaðardalur and Árskógsströnd. They include various tools and furnishings which provide insight into life and work in and around Dalvík, and the history of the community, in addition to items of art and craft made by local people. The natural history collection contains a large number of icelandic birds and mammals, and some marine creatures also, along with collections of grasses, shells, eggs and rocks. The museum includes exhibits on a number of people from Svarfaðardalur who became nationally famous: Jóhann Pétursson, known as “The Giant,” Icelandic president Dr. Kristján Eldjárn, and Friðrik Friðriksson, founder of the YMCA in Iceland.
Address: at Karlsrauðatorg, IS-620 Dalvík Tel: (+354) 466 1497 e-mail: hvoll@dalvik.is www.dalvikurbyggð.is/byggdasafn
GPS: 65°58,436N 18°22,303W
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st - Sept. 1st 11.00 - 18.00 Winter: Saturdays 14.00 - 17.00 Admission Fee: ISK 700. Senior citizens and groups (12+) ISK 500.
The House of Shark–Jörundur
Jörundur Jónsson, called Shark-Jörundur, built the house in 1885-86, using timber from Norwegian ships which ran ashore at Hrísey in 1884. In 1917 the house was moved down the hill, to its current site, but a statue of Shark-Jörundur commemorates the spot where the house was originally built. The house now holds an exhibition and items related to shark fishing as well as the history of the island. You will also find The Tourist Information Center in Hrísey there and a popular tractor-trailer tour ends in front of the house. Address: Norðurvegur 3, Hrísey, Tel: (+354) 695 0077 e-mail: hrisey@hrisey.net | www.hrisey.net
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st - Sept 1st open daily 13.00-17.00 Winter hours by appointment. – 91 –
akureyri
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
MUSEUM Davíð Stefánsson Memorial Museum The Center of Visual Arts Akureyri Church Matthías Jochumsson Memorial Foundation Nonni's House Memorial Museum The Toy Collection in Fridbjarnarhouse Akureyri Museum Akureyri Industrial Museum The Motorcycle Museum of Iceland The Aviation Museum of Iceland
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Samkaup Strax. Museum Guide available
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Nettó. Museum Guide available
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Samkaup Úrval. Museum Guide available
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pages 96 97 93 96 94 98 95 98 99 99
GPS: 65° 40,789’N, 18° 5,456’W
Akureyrarkirkja - The Church of Akureyri
Akureyrarkirkja or The Church of Akureyri is a prominent Lutheran church in Akureyri, northern Iceland. Located in the centre of the city, and towering above the city on a hill, it was designed by Icelandic state architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, and completed in 1940. Akureyrarkirkja contains a notably large 3200- pipe organ and a unique interpretation of the crucifixion. The opaque central window in the chancel, once belonged to Coventry Cathedral in England.
Address: By Eyrarlandsvegur 600 Akureyri
Tel: (+354) 462-7700 e-mail: akirkja@akirkja.is www.akirkja.is – 93 –
The Museum Church in Akureyri
Address: Aðalstræti 58, 600 Akureyri Tel: (+354) 462 4162 minjasafnid@minjasafnid.is www.minjasafnid.is Opening hours: Open everyday from 9-17.
GPS: 65°40,125N 18°05,108W
The Museum Church in Akureyri stands in the oldest part of Akureyri. The church was originally built at Svalbarð, on the opposite site of the fjord, in 1846. It was built by Þorsteinn Daníelsson of Skipalón (1796-1882), who was one of the most renowned church-builders of the 19th century. It serves a dual purpose of a museum piece and a place of worship. It is also a venue for concerts. See the website for Akureyri Museum for more information. The church’s finest objects are its chandelier and alterpiece; not only for their age, but also because of the character they lend the church. The altarpiece is from 1806, painted by Jón Hallgrímsson (1741-1808) and the chandelier from 1688.
Nonni’s House
GPS: 65° 40,020’N, 18° 5,145’W
A cozy memorial museum with a friendly atmosphere. The childhood home of the writer and Jesuit priest Jón Sveinsson, “Nonni” (1857-1944) is one of Akureyri‘s landmarks. He wrote 12 children’s books. They have been translated into more than 40 languages, including Chinese and Esperanto. Nonni lived and worked in Germany, France, Denmark and the Netherlands. Built in 1850 Nonni’s House is among the oldest houses in Akureyri. It has been preserved as an example of a typical 19th century Icelandic town home. Address: Opening hours: Summer: June 1st - August 31st Daily 10.00-17.00 Aðalstræti 54, IS 600 Akureyri Tel: (+354) 462 3555 Admission: Adults (18+) 1000 ISK and groups (10+) 800 ISK www.nonni.is Day Pass 2200 kr - Annual Pass 3300 kr – 94 –
GPS: 65°40,125N 18°05,108W
AKUREYRI MUSEUM
An interesting museum for the entire family Interesting and unique artifacts can be found in the exhibitions relating to the Viking period, the middle Ages, religion and everyday life in Eyjafjörður and Akureyri in the past. Special exhibitions: Land ahoy! Maps of Iceland from 1500-1800. Make your own map and find the strange creatures. A view from the past. Modern Akureyri with the technique of the 19. century. The Yule lads! Get to know the Yule lads all 82 of them in NovemberJanuary, the Museum garden is an idyllic picnic spot and the 19th century church is well worth a visit.
Address: Aðalstræti 58 600 Akureyri Tel: (+354) 462 4162 www.minjasafnid.is minjasafnid@minjasafnid.is
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st to Sept. 15th. Daily 10.00-17.00 Winter: Thurs.-Sun. 14.00-16.00 Admission: Adults (18+) 1000 ISK and groups (10+) 800 ISK Day Pass 2200 kr - Annual Pass 3300 kr 0000 000
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Matthias Jochumsson Memorial Foundation
GPS: 65°40,468N 18°05,237W
A memorial museum of the Reverend and beloved poet Matthías Jochumsson (1835-1920), probably best known for composing the national anthem of Iceland. The house was the home of Matthías from 1903 until the end of this life. Address: Eyrarlandsvegur, 600 Akureyri Tel: (+354) 462 6649 & (+354) 462 4162 minjasafnid@minjasafnid.is www.minjasafnid.is
Opening hours: June 1st-August 31st: Mon-Fri 13.00-17.00 Admission: Adults (18+) 1000 ISK and groups (10+) 800 ISK Day Pass 2200 kr - Annual Pass 3300 kr
Davíð Stefánsson Memorial Museum
GPS: 65°40,587N 18°05,515W
In the green hills of Akureyri overlooking the Municipal Library lays a house with an exciting history and a unique atmosphere of the 60’s. Built in 1944 by one of Iceland’s most loved poet and writer, Davíð Stefánsson, who lived there until he died in 1964. Davíð had a taste for the finer things in life and was an enthusiastic collector of art and books. His apartment is a testament to his taste, full of books, an art collection and other personal articles, just as he left them in 1964. It is almost as if he is returning in a few minutes. Address: Opening hours: June 1st - August 31st Bjarkarstígur 6, 600 Akureyri Monday-Friday 13.00-17.00 Tel: (+354) 462 4162 minjasafnid@minjasafnid.is Admission: www minjasafnid.is Adults (18+) 1000 ISK and groups (10+) 800 ISK Day Pass 2200 kr - Annual Pass 3300 kr – 96 –
Center of Visual Arts
GPS: 65° 40,819’N, 18° 5,522’W
SJÓNLISTAMIÐSTÖÐIN CENTER FOR VISUAL ARTS
In 2012 The Akureyri Art Museum and The Cultural Center merged to create The Center for Visual Arts. Under this umbrella three exhibition venues are gathered: The Art Museum and the multifunctional facilities Ketilhús and Deiglan, all situated in The Arts Alley in the heart of Akureyri. The Akureyri Art Museum is located in what used to be the KEA coop building, which was designed with strong influences from Bauhaus and the international Funkis movement. Emphasis is on a variety of exhibitions and works of the highest artistic standard. In addition to older works, The Center for Visual Arts makes room for the best and the brightest new talent, both domestic and foreign and prides itself on its good relations with artists, museums and galleries all across Iceland. The aim is to support and promote visual arts in Akureyri as well as educate visitors in what art has to offer.
Address: Kaupvangsstræti 12 600 Akureyri Tel: (+354) 461 2610
Opening Hours: Summer: 10:00 - 17:00 Winter: 12:00 - 17:00 No admission fee
e-mail: sjonlist@sjonlist.is www.sjonlist.is – 97 –
The Toy Collection in Fridbjarnarhouse
GPS: 65° 40,078’N, 18° 5,158’W
The Toy Collection in Fridbjarnarhouse is a place to relive your childhood as well as look into the Icelandic childhood of the past. A collection of old toys is displayed and you can also let your children play in the designated playroom that will be a great success with young travelers. LEIKFANGASÝNINGIN FRIÐBJARNARHÚSI
Address:
Opneing hours:
Aðalstræti 46, 600 Akureyri Tel: (+354) 863 4531 e-mail: ringsted@akmennt.is Find us on facebook.com: Search “Leikföng frá liðinni öld”
Summer: June 1st - August 31st Daily 13 - 17 Winter: By request Admission: Adults (16+) ISK 800, Seniors (67+) ISK 400, Free admission for children and the disabled
Akureyri Industrial Museum
GPS: 65°39,695N 18°04,933W
Founded to commemorate the industrial heritage of Akureyri, the museum exhibits machinery, tools of various trades and manufactured products from the last century thus telling the stories of the factories and the people who created and worked in them.
Address: Krókeyri 6 IS 600 Akureyri Tel: (+354) 462 3600 e-mail: idnadarsafnid@idnadarsafnid.is www.idnadarsafnid.is
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st - September 14th daily 10.00-17.00 Winter: September 15th -May 31th saturdays 14.00-16.00 Admission. Free for children under 18. – 98 –
GPS: 65°39,115N 18°04,564W
The Aviation museum of Iceland
The Aviation museum of Iceland first opened its doors to the public on the 1st of May 1999. It is located in a large hangar at Akureyri airport. There are various kinds of airplanes, big and small, as well as objects that have to do with flying. The museum’s main goal is to preserve Iceland’s aviation history. Akureyri Airport, IS-600 Akureyri Tel: (+354) 461 4400 e-mail: flugsafn@flugsafn.is www.flugsafn.is Opening hours: Summer: June 1st-Sept. 1st Daily 11:00 - 17:00 Winter: Saturday 14:00 - 17:00 Or by agreement Admission Fee: ISK 1.000, 11 years and under free GPS: 65°39,695N 18°04,933W
The Motorcycle museum of Iceland
A beautiful new museum featuring the 100 years of motorcycling in Iceland. A great collection of motorcycles and loads of interesting motorcycle stuff. Address: Krókeyri 2 600 Akureyri Tel: (+354) 866 3500 e-mail: motorhjolasafn@motorhjolasafn.is www.motorhjolasafn.is
Opening hours: Summer: (June 1st - August 31st) Daily 10.00–18.00 Winter: (Sep 1st - May 31st) Sat. 14.00–16.00 Other opening hours available for groups. Admission: Adult ISK 1.000, free entry for 12 years and younger – 99 –
the north east
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1
MUSEUM Sverrir's Sundry Collection
pages 102
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The old Farmhouse Laufás
102
3
The Curch of Thorgeir at Ljósavatn
103
4
The Transportation Museum at Ystafell
103
5 6 7
Húsavík Whale Museum The Húsavík Museum Centre Grenjaðarstaður Turf House
104 105 106
8
Þverá in Laxárdalur
106
9
Sigurgeir's Bird Museum
107
10 Gljúfrastofa, The Visitor Centre at Ásbyrgi
109
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The Northern Þingeyjarsýsla Heritage Museum
108
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The Earthquake Centre in Kópasker
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13
Sæluhús Refuge by Jökulsá á Fjöllum
110
14
Sauðanes in Langanes
110
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Samkaup Strax. Museum Guide available
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Samkaup Úrval. Museum Guide available
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Sverrir´s Sundry Collection
GPS: 65°26,833N 18°12,502W
Sverrir’s Sundry Collection is a private museum like no other in Iceland. It is not only a historical or agricultural museum, an appliance and household collection; nail and forging compilation, or a key collection but all of this and much more. For decades Sverrir has collected over a thousand items pr. year, ranging from gramophone needles to whole private collections of workshop tools. Sverrir has turned this assemblage into interesting exhibits and distinct sculptures that function as unique art souvenirs. The museum has a café and souvenir shop. Opening hours: Address: May 15th - Sept. 15th 11.00 - 17.00 Sólgarður, Eyjafjarðarsveit Open by appointment outside of season for 601 Akureyri groups (10 people or more). Tel: (+354) 463 1261 Admission is free for children (<16 years). e-mail: smamunir@esveit.is ISK 900 for Adults (16 - 67 years). 500 ISK for www.esveit.is/smamunasafnid Senior Citizens (>67) and the disabled. The Old Farmhouse Laufás
GPS: 65°53,744N 18°4,289W
Experience life in a rectory around 1900 The rectory at Laufás was rebuilt in an ambitious style in 1853-1882 and is an example of the gabled farmhouse, although significantly larger. It is furnished with household items and utensils from the turn of the 19th century. One of the specialities of Laufás is the bride‘s chamber where brides prepared themselves for the big event. In summer of 2012 the old smithy was rebuilt and opened. The church was built in 1865 and among its items is an exquisite pulpit from 1698. Souvenir shop with local handcraft and a taste of Iceland in the Visitor Center. Address: Opening hours: Grýtubakkahreppur June 1st - Aug 31st Daily 9.00-17.00 30 km from Akureyri - 20 km from Goðafoss, Admission: Tel: (+354) 463 3196 & (+354) 895 3172 Adults (18+) 1000 ISK and groups (10+) 800 ISK laufas@minjasafnid.is www.minjasafnid.is Day Pass 2200 kr - Annual Pass 3300 kr – 102 –
GPS: 65° 41,344’N, 17° 36,304’W
The Curch of Thorgeir
The Curch of Thorgeir at Ljósavatn was erected to commemorate the adoption of Chistianity in Iceland in the year 1000. The church is open to visitors during the summertime and we welcome all who want to stop by and have a quiet moment of reflection. Here you will find refuge from the hectic everyday life.
Address: Opening hours: By Ljósavatn Summer: 20th of June - 15th of August. Þingeyjarsveit From kl. 10.00-16.00. Sími: 464-3322 Winter: After agreement. e-mail: thkirkja@gmail.com Admission: Adults 250 ISK, free for children www.thkirkja.weebly.com under the age of 16. GPS: 65°46,510N 17°34,450W
The transportation museum at Ystafell
The transportation museum at Ystafell was established by Ingólfur Kristjánsson and Kristbjörg Jónsdóttir in 1998. The museum is the oldest of its kind in Iceland. Its main role is to preserve and show various ways and means of transportation and present to the public interesting facts on the subject. Ingólfur collected spare parts, machinery and cars of all kinds for half a century. The Transportation Museum is the result of his efforts and dedication. The transportation museum at Ystafell is on www.facebook.com
Address: Ystafell, Kaldakinn, 641 Húsavík 9 km from highway nr. 1 Tel: (+354) 464 3133 & (+354) 861 1213 e-mail: sverrir@islandia.is www.ystafell.is
Opening hours: May 15th - September 30th Daily 10.00 - 20.00 Admission: Free entry for children 11 years and younger Access for disabled is good. – 103 –
The Húsavík whale museum
GPS: 66°02,811N 17°20,680W
The Húsavík Whale Museum was founded with the aim to educate the public about whales and their habitat in a fun, exciting and informative way. The museum exhibit floor is over 900m2 and there you will find information about the different whale species, their biology and the history of whale hunting. In addition, you will also find information detailing the marine ecological system, and the water world which the whales inhabit. The main museum exhibition hall has 10 whale skeletons of different sizes, the biggest of them measuring 14 meters in length. Húsavík is often called the “Whale Capital of Europe” and this museum is a must-see for anyone interested in these giants of the sea. Welcome to The Húsavík Whale Museum.
Address: Hafnarstétt 1 IS-640 Húsavík Phone: (+354) 414-2800 e-mail: info@whalemuseum.is www.whalemuseum.is
Opening hours : June, July and August: 8.30 - 18.30 April, May and September: 9.00 - 16.00 October - March: 10.00 - 15.30 (weekdays). For visits outside of normal hours by agreement with the manager, call (+354) 414-2800/(+354) 866-7020
Entrance Fee: Adults: 1.400 ISK Students: 1000 ISK Children (10-18 years): 500 ISK Groups (10+) 1.100 ISK Senior citizens/Disabled: 1000 ISK Family price (2 adults, 1-5 children): 3.100 ISK
Limited
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GPS: 66°02,826N 17°20,223W
The Húsavík Museum Centre
The Húsavík Museum Centre houses a variety of attractions, so don‘t miss the opportunity to experience what it has to offer. The Centre has two standing exhibitions: A new presentation, Man and Nature – 100 Years in Þingeyjarsýsla which aims to provide insight into man‘s relationship with nature in this region in the period 1850-1950. This interesting aspect of national culture is explored by juxtaposing objects from nature and manmade artefacts. A special room is set aside for young visitors. The Maritime Exhibition includes a large number of boats and a wide variety of fishing gear, equipment and tools which were used in the fisheries, as well as in seal-hunting and shark-fishing. On the top floor and the ground floor there are galleries with changing exhibitions. Visitors can take a break, find books in the library, examine maps, access the Internet, and so on. The Centre has a small museum shop/café which serves coffee and light snacks.
Address: Stórigarður 17, 640 Húsavík Tel: (+354) 464 1860 www.husmus.is e-mail: safnahus@husmus.is Opening hours: June - August daily: 10.00-18.00 During winter on weekdays:10.00-16.00
Admission: Adults ISK 800. Groups (10+) & Senior citizens (67+) ISK 500. Free entry for children. Combined ticket with Grenjaðarstaður Turf House: 1000 ISK.
Groups and senior citizens: 700 ISK – 105 –
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Grenjaðarstaður turf house
GPS: 65°49,236N 17°20,990W
The picturesque turf house of Grenjaðarstaður used to be one of the area’s chief farms and became the site of a church and a parsonage. It now houses an interesting local heritage museum with nearly two thousand objects. To wander through and imagine how life once was will provide a unique experience.
Address: Grenjaðarstaður, IS 641 Húsavík Tel: (+354) 464 1860 or (+354) 464 3688 e-mail: safnahus@husmus.is | www.husmus.is Opening hours: June, July and August daily 10:00-18:00
Admission: Adults 600 ISK. Groups and senior citizens:
400 ISK. Free entry for children. Combined ticket with the Museum House
in Húsavík: 1000 ISK. Groups and senior citizens: 700 ISK.
Þverá in Laxárdal
GPS: 65°43,912N 17°14,751W
Þverá in Laxárdal: A magnificent north-Icelandic turf house that was built in the latter half of the 19th century. Notice the craftmanship that went into its construction.
Tel: (+354) 530 2200 • thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is • www.thjodminjasafn.is
– 106 –
GPS: 65°37,730N 16°59,700W
Sigurgeir´s Bird Museum
An adventure world for bird enthusiasts Enjoy information and refreshments in the world’s foremost bird paradise. The museum houses about 180 species of birds, more than 300 specimens of birds and numerous eggs. The museum has bird watching binoculars and multimedia about the birds. Address: Ytri Neslönd, 660 Mývatn Tel: (+354) 464 4477 e-mail: fuglasafn@fuglasafn.is www.fuglasafn.is
HERE
Admission fee: Adults ISK 1000 Children 7-14 years ISK 500 Seniors 67+ ISK 650 Groups 10+ ISK 900
Opening hours: June 1st- August 31st: Daily 10.00-18.00 Winter: Daily 14.00-16.00 – 107 –
The Northern Þingeyjarsýsla Heritage Museum
GPS: 66°18,063N 16°24,907W
different objects: toys, a firefighting cart, guns, wood carvings, blacksmith products and much, much more. The museum also contains the library of Helgi Kristjánsson, from the nearby farm of Leirhöfn. Helgi was well known for bookbinding and all kinds of caps he designed and made. Located at Snartarstaðir farm, one kilometre from the village of Kópasker, this museum presents a unique collection of local objects showing daily life in the 19th and 20th centuries. There is a wide array of stitched articles: embroidery, woven goods, knitted clothing and many other unique, interesting handicrafts. In addition, the museum contains a variety of quite
Address: Snartarstaðir, 671 Kópasker Tel: (+354) 464 1860 or (+354) 465 2171 e-mail: safnahus@husmus.is www.husmus.is
Opening hours: Open daily from 13:00 to 17:00 during June, July and August Admission is free.
The Earthquake Center in Kópasker
GPS: 66°18,086N 16°26,797W
An exhibition about THE KÓPASKER EARTHQUAKE that took place 13th of January 1976. At that time 90 inhabitants of 130 were evacuated during a heavy snowstorm. The exhibition consists of pictures from the evacuation plus information about the geology of the area and the volcanic eruptions in the North East.
Address: The School House Kópasker, 670 Kópasker Tel: (+354) 465 2105 & (+354) 845 2454 e-mail: earthquake@kopasker.is www.skjalftasetur.is
Opening hours: June 1st – August 31th daily 13.00-17.00. At other times by agreement Free admission No wheelchair access
– 108 –
The Visitor Centre at Ásbyrgi
GPS: 66°01,702N 16°29,255W
Gljúfrastofa is the Visitor and Information Centre for the Northern Territory of Vatnajökull National Park. The visitor centre also houses a souvenir shop. The interesting exhibition on geology and the nature of Jökulsárgljúfur canyon and its environs graphically informs guests about plate boundaries, volcanism, biospheres and habitats, the power of glacial floods, the formation of Ásbyrgi canyon, and the interaction of humans with the might of nature. Considered by many to be the country’s best exhibition on Icelandic nature, it interactively allows the visitor to feel, smell and try out the assorted objects.
© Snorri Baldursson
The Visitor Centre is a perfect starting point for those who plan to visit Jökulsárgljúfur and its surroundings. Interesting natural attractions within Jökulsárgjúfur are Ásbyrgi,Hljóðaklettar, Hólmatungur and Dettifoss. Address: Ásbyrgi IS 671 Kópasker Tel: (+354) 470 7100 e-mail: asbyrgi@vjp.is www.vjp.is
Opening hours: Daily May 1st to Sep. 30th (opening hours varies) Admission free
0000 000
Vatnajökull National Park‘s visitor centres are four: At Ásbyrgi (p. 109), Skriðuklaustur (p. 118), in Höfn (p. 120) and in Skaftafell (p. 141). An information office and exhibition is in Kirkjubæjarklaustur (page 140). – 109 –
Sauðanes on Langanes
GPS: 66°14,771N 15°15,699W
It is believed that there has been a church at Sauðanes since the 12th century. The vicarage at Sauðanes (Sauðanes House) was built in 1879 and Sauðaneskirkja church in 1889. The old vicarage is the oldest stone house in Þingeyjarsýsla district and was made from stone brought from far away but carved on site.
Tel: (+354) 530 2200 • e-mail: thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is • www.thjodminjasafn.is Sæluhús refuge by Jökulsá á Fjöllum
GPS: 65°38,360N 16°13,390W
The river Jökulsá á Fjöllum was a great hindrance in past centuries. It was not considered possible to cross on horseback, but there were ferries at the most popular crossings. The refuge was built around 1880 from stone. The house was said to be haunted by an animal the size of a year old calf, with thick fur.
Tel: (+354) 530 2200 • e-mail: thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is • www.thjodminjasafn.is – 110 –
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MUSEUM
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pages 112 112 116 113
6 7
Djúpivogur Tryggvi Ólafsson's ArtDjúpivogur Collection The Jósafat Hinriksson's Maritime Museum
113 114-115 114-115
8
The East Iceland Museum of Natural History
114-115
Museum House in Neskaupsstaður
114-115
The East Iceland Maritime Museum
114-115
The Icelandic Wartime Museum
114-115
Lambafell Goðahnjúkar 9 Goðahnjúkar Suðurfjall Goðahryggur 10 Goðahryggur Suðurfjall Lambafell11 Goðahryggur Suðurfjall Lambafell Suðurfjall Lambafell 12
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Skriðuklaustur - Centre of Culture and History
117
13
Snæfellsstofa Visitor Centre at Skriðuklaustur
14
French Fishermen in Iceland
15
Petra's Mineral Collection
119
16
Breiðdalssetur, research and heritage Centre
119
17
Langabúð Museum in Djúpavogur
121
18
Svavar Guðnason Art Museum
121
19
Gamlabúð - The Visitor Centre at Höfn
120
20
The Thorbergur Centre of Culture
122
S
Samkaup Strax. Museum Guide available
N
Nettó. Museum Guide available
Ú
Samkaup Úrval. Museum Guide available
– 111 –
118 114-115
Bustarfell museum
GPS: 65°36,940N 15°05,880W
Bustarfell in Vopnafjörður is one of the most beautiful and best kept turf-houses in Iceland. Guided tours around the museum are available every day in summer and by arrangement during winter. Often during weekends the museum becomes alive with various events, an exhibition of old Opening hours: workmanship and delicious national refreshments We encourage guests to look at our in Hjáleigan Café. website vopnafjordur.com for further
Address: Bustarfell, 690 Vopnafjörður Tel: (+354) 844 1153 & (+354) 471 2211 e-mail: bustarfell@simnet.is www. bustarfell.is
information. Admittance fee: ISK 900 Individuals ISK 200 Children 9-13 years. ISK 700 Groups (10+)
Múlastofa
In Café
GPS: 65°45,189N 14°49,589W
Múlastofa museum is located in the cultural center Kaupvangur. Björn G. Björnsson, designer, has created a museum about the life and art of Jón Múli and Jónas Árnason. The main purpose of Múlastofa site is to keep the exhibition about the life and art of the brothers, to offer enthusiasts an opportunity to study the brothers works and finally to represent music and culture events each year.
Address: Kaupvangur – Hafnarbyggð 4a, 690 Vopnafirði Tel: (+354) 473 1341 & (+354) 862 1398 Fax: (+354) 473 1296 e-mail: magnus@vopnafjordur.is www.vopnafjordur.com
Opening hours: Summertime: Mon.-Fry. 10-18 and Weekends 12-16 Same opening hours as Tourist Information Admittance fee: ISK 800 for all older than 14 years – 112 –
Technical Museum of East Iceland
GPS: 65°15,967N 13°59,472W
Focuses on the influx of modern times around 1880 to 1950. Animated exhibitions. Iceland’s first telegraph station, mechanical shop (1907), hospital, photo studio, printshop and more re-create the atmosphere of the times they portray. Smithy festival 25th–27th July 2014.
Address: Hafnargata 44 IS 710 Seyðisfjörður Tel: (+354) 472 1696 & (+354) 861 7764 e-mail: tekmus@tekmus.is www.tekmus.is
Opening hours: Summer: Workdays 11.00-17.00 Winter: Workdays 13.00-16.00 Admission: ISK 1.000 Skaftfell - Center for Visual Art
GPS: 65° 15,695’N, 13° 59,873’W
Skaftfell operates in the field of contemporary art, on a local and international level. Its activities are based upon an exhibition program, alongside a residency and outreach program. A Bistro is on the ground floor with coffee, beverages and food, plus free Internet and an art library. In 2013 Skaftfell received Eyrarrósin, an Icelandic award, as an outstanding cultural project in a rural area.
Address: Austurvegur 42, 710 Seyðisfjörður Tel: (+354) 472 1632 E-mail: skaftfell@skaftfell.is www.skaftfell.is
Opening hours: Summer: 12.00-22.00 Winter: Open daily, see www.skaftfell.is
– 113 –
The Museums of Fjarðabyggð
Welcome to the fabulous Museums in Fjarðabyggð
Mjóifjörður Norðfjörður Eskifjörður Reyðarfjörður
Fáskrúðsfjörður Stöðvafjörður
All museums are open 13.00 – 17.00 pm, 7 days a week, from June 1st – August 31st or by agreement, tel: (+354) 470 9063.
www.fjardabyggd.is
GPS: 65°08,508N 13°40,205W
The Museum House in Neskaupstaður Egilsbraut 2, Neskaupstaður Tel: (+354) 470 9000 and (+354) 477 1446 sofn@fjardabyggd.is Tryggvi Ólafsson Art collection Tryggvi Ólafsson is born in 1940 at Norðfjordur in Fjardabyggd. He studied at the The Icelandic College of Art and Crafts 1960-61 and at the Royal Art Academy in Copenhagen from 1961-66. Tryggvi is one of Iceland´s best known contemporary artists. The Jósafat Hinriksson’s Maritime Museum The museum displays interesting objects relating to fishing, iron work, boat building and the old ways of the Icelandic people. It displays a replica of Josafat’s father’s old iron workshop where Josafat studied and started his career. The East Iceland Museum of Natural History at Neskaupstaður A new and interesting museum which displays the best of Icelandic nature; Icelandic mammals, shellfish, birds, insects and stone collection as well as specimens from the East Icelandic flora. – 114 –
GPS: 65°04,202N 14°00,597W
The East Iceland Maritime Museum Strandgata 39b, Eskifjörður Tel: (+354) 470 9000 sofn@fjardabyggd.is The museum mostly exhibits objects and utensils relating to fishing and seafaring in general. It also displays various reminders of local trade, industry and medicine from times past. The collection is in a commercial building, “Gamla búð”, built in 1816. GPS: 65°02,190N 14°12,343W
The Icelandic Wartime Museum Spítalakampur by Hæðargerði Reyðarfjörður Tel: (+354) 470 9000 sofn@fjardabyggd.is At the Icelandic Wartime Museum you can travel back to the days of the 2nd World War and the military occupation of Reyðarfjordur. The museum gives a vivid insight into life during the war. The focus is on the impact of the occupation on the Icelandic people. GSM: 65°02,190N 14°12,343W
French Fishermen in Iceland Hafnargata 12 Fáskrúðsfjörður Tel: (+354) 470 9000 (+354) 470 9063 sofn@fjardabyggd.is The museum is relocating in the summer of 2014 and will move to brand new housing at the French Hospital in Fáskrúðsfjörður, where the Icelandic Antiquities Preservation Society has rebuilt several period French houses, and restored them to their original state. The museum traces the history of French sailors in Iceland in an interesting and exciting way. – 115 –
East Iceland Heritage Museum
GPS: 65°15,967N 13°59,472W
The museum’s exhibition consists of objects from the old rural society in East Iceland, i.e. before 1900, when every household had to be selfsufficient with tools, food and clothing. On display are things from the history of hunting, crafts, food production, clothing and various aspects of daily life, hygiene, hobbies, morals and values. Also visitors are invited to enter a 19th century style “living/sleeping” room of a farmhouse which was moved from the countryside and rebuilt in the museum. There are also various objects on display in connection to the 20th century urban development in the eastern region, i.e. from the history of health care, industry, trading, forestry, transport, schools and entertainments. The special pride of the museum is an archaeological treasure, a brooch from the Viking period, found few years ago in the ground on a farm in East Iceland.
Address: Laufskógar 1, 700 Egilsstaðir Tel: (+354) 471-1412 e-mail: minjasafn@minjasafn.is www.minjasafn.is
Admission Adults (18+) ISK 800 Groups (10 +) ISK 600 Opening hours: June 1st – August 31st, daily 13-17. Winter, by agreement. – 116 –
GPS: 65°02,598N 14°56,945W
Skriðuklaustur - CENTRE OF CULTURE & HISTORY
Historical site with the ruins of a 16th century monastery and the home of the writer Gunnar Gunnarsson. Built in 1939 it is one of Iceland’s most valuable buildings, donated to the nation
by the writer in 1948. Museum about Gunnarsson with exhibitions and events of various kind concerning local culture and nature. Personal guidance guaranteed. Lunch and cake buffet every day in the summer at the Klausturkaffi restaurant with local food specialities.
Address: Gunnarsstofnun, Skriðuklaustur IS-701 Egilsstaðir Tel: (+354) 471-2990 e-mail: klaustur@skriduklaustur.is www.skriduklaustur.is
Opening hours: Summer: June-August 10.00-18.00. May & ½ Sept 12.00-17.00. Winter: Ask for info Admission fee: Museum ISK 1000. Free for 16 years and younger. Ruins guidance for groups ISK 500 p.person. – 117 –
Snæfellsstofa Visitor Centre at Skriduklaustur
GPS: 65°2,661N 14°56,827W
Snæfellsstofa is the Visitor and Information centre for the eastern territory of Vatnajökull National Park. It is located at Skriðuklaustur in Fljótsdalur, in the first environmentally certified building in Iceland. Snæfellsstofa houses a lovely exhibition which focuses on nature‘s cycles and formation, the interaction of vegetation and animal life within the Park, revealed in the water cycle, seasonal changes and the cycle of life and death. The exhibition allows visitors interactively to feel, smell and try out assorted objects. The visitor centre also houses a souvenir shop with focus on products from surrounding areas of the National Park and a coffee shop.
Address: Skriðuklaustur, IS-701 Egilsstaðir Tel: (+354) 470 0840 e-mail: snaefellsstofa@vjp.is www.vjp.is
Opening hours: May: workdays 10-16 and weekends 13-17 June 1st-August 31st: workdays 9-18 & weekends 10-18 September: workdays 10-16 and weekends 13-17 Admission: Free
Vatnajökull National Park‘s visitor centres are four: At Ásbyrgi (p. 109), Skriðuklaustur (p. 118), in Höfn (p. 120) and in Skaftafell (p. 141). An information office and exhibition is in Kirkjubæjarklaustur (page 140). – 118 –
Petra’s Mineral Collection
GPS: 64° 50,124’N, 13° 52,837’W
Ljósbjörg Petra María Sveinsdóttir was fascinated by stones all her life and became a serious stone collector in 1946. Her stones and minerals are mainly from Stöðvarfjörður and Eastern Iceland as Petra did not spend much time looking for stones in other parts of Iceland. In 1974 Petra decided that her home would be open to everyone wishing to look at her stones. Since then hundreds of thousands of guests have visited her collection. While her house has taken on the appearance of a museum, it is first and foremost a home.
Address: Fjarðarbraut 21 755 Stöðvarfjörður sími +354 475 8834 info@steinapetra.is GPS: 64,7918°N 14,0097°V
Opening Hours: May 1st. - Spetember 30th 9.00-18.00 Admission: ISK 1000 kr. for 14 years and older
Breiðdalssetur, Research and Heritage centre
Science and research centre in Breiðdalsvík’s oldest house: Geological and mineral exhibitions showing the work of the British geologist Dr. G.P.L. Walker; linguistic scientist and writer Dr. Stefán Einarsson from Breiðdalur; and the history of the house, the village and surrounding settlements. A multi-purpose room is available for various events for up to 70 persons.
Address: Sæberg 1, 760 Breiðdalsvík Tel: (+354) 470 5560 and (+354) 865 9857 e-mail: info@breiddalssetur.is www.breiddalssetur.is
Opening hours: Summer: May 20th – Sept. 15th 2014 Daily 11.00-18.00 No winter opening schedule but please contact us for an appointment. Admission: ISK 300 kr.. – 119 –
Visitor centre in höfn
GPS: 64°15,023N 15°12,228W
Gamlabúð houses Vatnajökull National Park‘s visitor centre in Höfn, Hornafjörður. It is a tourist information office and has an exhibition that focuses on glaciers, early glacier travels, climate change and geology. With Hornafjörður being an important stop-over for migrating birds, special attention is also given to the bird life of the area. A small shop is located in the visitor centre, with emphasis on books, souvenirs and local products. The visitor centre building has wheelchair accessibility.
Address: Heppuvegur 1, 780 Höfn Tel: (+354) 470 8330 E-mail: hofn@vjp.is www.vjp.is
Opening hours: See www.vjp.is Admission: Free
0000 000
Vatnajökull National Park‘s visitor centres are four: At Ásbyrgi (p. 109), Skriðuklaustur (p. 118), in Höfn (p. 120) and in Skaftafell (p. 141). An information office and exhibition is in Kirkjubæjarklaustur (page 140).
– 120 –
Langabúð Museum
GPS: 64°39,457N 14°16,979W
Langabúð, made of logs and originally dating back to 1790, is Djúpivogurs oldest building. Now renovated, it serves as a cultural centre for Djúpivogur, partly by housing a heritage museum and an exhibition on the famous Icelandic sculptor Ríkarður Jónsson, along with a coffee shop.
Address: Langabúð Búð 1 IS-765 Djúpavogi Phone: (+354) 478 8220 e-mail: langabud@djupivogur.is www.rikardssafn.is www.langabud.is
Opening hours: Summer: May 15th – September 15th, Open all week 11:00-18:00 During the winter time, please contact us for opening hours. Admittance: 500 kr.
Svavar Guðnason art Museum
GPS: 64°15,621N 15°12,081W
Svavar Guðnason, untitled, year unknown.
Art museum in Hornafjörður, dedicated to the memory of Svavar Guðnason who was born in Hornafjörður 1909. He moved to Denmark and was active in the COBRA movement and one of Icelands best known painter in modern times. Here you can find his work Svavar Guðnason, untitled, year unknown. in the summertime, and in the wintertime you will find various exhibitions in the gallery. Opening hours:
Address: by Hafnarbraut, IS 700 Hornafjörður Tel: (+354) 470 8000 & (+354) 470 8050 e-mail: menningarmidstod@hornafjordur.is www.hornafjordur.is/menning
Summer: 9.00-16.00 daily, Weekends 11.00-16.00 Winter: 9.00-16.00 weekdays and by request on other hours Admission: Free – 121 –
The Thorbergur centre of culture
GPS: 64°07,747N 16°00,850W
The Thorbergur centre of culture in Hali in The Thorbergur centre was built in memory of the district Sudursveit of Southeast Iceland. the famous Icelandic writer Þórbergur Þórðar son (1888 – 1974), who was born in Hali. In the Thorbergur centre there is the heritage museum and a unique exhibition of the district Sudursveit and the writer Þórbergur Þórðarson, his life and work. In the Thorbergur centre is a fully licensed Restaurant. We offer you coffee, homebaked cakes and our specialities such as the farmraised arctic char (trout) from Hali as well as other traditional local food like gourmet Icelandic lamb and traditional lamb meat soup with bread. The Thorbergur centre is by road number 1 only 13 km further east from Jökulsárlón.
Address: Hali í Suðursveit 781 Höfn Tel: (+354) 478 1078 Mobile: (+354) 867 2900 e-mail: hali@hali.is www.thorbergssetur.is
Opening hours: Summer (Mai 15th – Sept. 15th) Every day 9.00-21.00 Winter (Sept. 16th – May 14th) Every day 8.00-13.00 and 16.00-20.00 Visits and meals outside normal opening hours can be arranged with us. Admission: ISK 1.000, 14 years and under free – 122 –
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These original and world famous texts have been made accessible to the general reader with new and readable translations and are beautifully presented. Available at most bookstores and museums.
The Viking Series Classical Icelandic texts in many languages in a handy format and at a good price. These original and world famous texts have been made accessible to the general reader with new and readable translations and
The Viking Series
are beautifully presented. Available at most bookstores and museums.
Snorri Sturlusons Edda Illustrated by famous artists. In English and Norwegian
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the south
– 124 –
1
museum Strandakirkja Church
2
Geothermal Energy Exhibition
126
3
LÁ Art Museum
127
4
Folk Museum of Árnessýsla - The House at Eyrarbakki
130
5 6 7
Maritime Museum in Eyrarbakki The Ghost Center, Elves, Trolls and Northern Lights Museum The Bobby Fisher Center
130 131 129
8
Skálholtskirkja Church
9
Eldheimar - The Pompei of the North
pages 128
129 136-137
10 Sagnheimar Heritage Museum
136-137
11
Sæheimar - Aquarium and Museum of Natural History
136-137
12
The Icelandic Saga Centre
131
13
Keldur in Rangárvellir
132
14
Hekla Centre
132
15
Búrfell Power Station - Interactive Energy Exhibition
133
16
Þjóðveldisbærinn - The Reconstructed Turf House in Þjórsárdalur
134-135
17
Skógar Museum
138-139
18
Katla Center
140
19
Skaftárstofa - Visitor Centre Kirkjubæjarklaustur
140
20
Skaftfellsstofa - Visitor Centre at Skaftafell
141
S
Samkaup Strax. Museum Guide available
N
Nettó. Museum Guide available
Ú
Samkaup Úrval. Museum Guide available
– 125 –
Geothermal Energy Exhibition
GPS: 64°02”248’N, 21°24”079’W
The Geothermal Energy Exhibiton at Hellisheiði Power Plant. The plant is a striking example of how geothermal energy is harnessed in a sustainable manner in Iceland and is a showcase for the rest of the world. Experienced guides give informative presentations backed by multimedia shows about sustainable green energy as a global energy source. An Exclusive collection of minerals and stones can be found on the 1st floor. A fully licensed coffee shop with specially brewed coffee, waffels with cream, etc. A souvenir corner with a selection of educational material on geothermal energy, including DVDs, books, a Hengill hiking map, etc. The Geothermal Energy Exhibition is only about a 20 min. drive from Reykjavík on Route 1 towards Hveragerði.
Address: Hellisheiðarvirkjun, 801 Selfoss Tel: (+354) 412-5800 e-mail: orkusyn@orkusyn.is www.orkusyn.is – 126 –
Opening hours & Admission: Summer: Daily 9.00 - 17.00 Winter: Daily 9.00 - 17.00 Admission: 900,-
LÁ Art Museum
GPS: 63°59,778N 21°11,129W
LÁ Art Museum – only a 40 min. drive from Reykjavík on the Golden Circle in the geothermal town Hveragerði. Enjoy ambitious exhibitions of modern and contemporary art and the relaxing seating area with a cafe and art literature.
Address: Austurmörk 21, IS-810 Hveragerði Tel: (+354) 483 1727 e-mail: listasafn@listasafnarnesinga.is www.listasafnarnesinga.is www.facebook.com/listasafnarnesinga
Opening hours: Summer: May 1st - Sept. 30th Daily 12.00-18.00 Winter: Thur-Sun 12.00-18.00 (Closed Des 15th - Jan 15th) Admittance: Free – 127 –
strandaRkirkja
Very many people visit Strandarkirkja which stays open throughout the summer and on weekends in spring and autumn. Also, it is often open on weekends in winter. The church warden receives visitors and informs them about the old and present history of the church. Religious services are conducted at Christmas and at Easter and once in the autumn, as well as on a Sunday when the winter fishing season is at its height. From the middle of May through August there are fortnightly services and thus altogether some 10 services every year. Thorlákskirkja church choir leads the singing in the church and the organist is Hannes Baldursson.
GPS: 63°50,144N 21°42,279W
Baldur Kristjánsson, by phoning 898 0971 or sending an e-mail to bk@baldur.is The chairman of the church committee is Gudrún Tómasdóttir, and the church warden is Silvía Ágústsdóttir from Gata, tel. 483 3910. Donations to the church may be deposited into a bank account no. 0150-05-60764, state registration no. 630269-6879.
Lectures or talks about the history of the church and the community at Selvogur may be booked with the parish priest, the Revd
Address: Selvogur 815 Þorlákshöfn Tel: (+354) 483 3910 e-mail: bk@baldur.is www.kirkjan.is/strandarkirkja – 128 –
The bobby fischer center
GPS: 63° 56,239’N, 20° 59,757’W
GENS UNA SUMUS
SKÁKSAMBAND ÍSLANDS
FI DE
THE BOBBY FISCHER CENTER
At the Bobby Fischer Center you can find items related to the great chess genius Bobby Fischer on display. He became the World Champion in Reykjavik 1972 when he won the soviet champion Boris Spassky in “The Game of the Century”. In his later years he settled in Iceland and a few hundred meters away from the Center, you can visit his grave, located at the Laugardælir cemetery. The Center is also a club house for the local chess clubs and offers lectures about the chess game and other related matters. Address: Opening hours: Austurvegur 21 14:00 - 16:00, from 15th of May - 15th of 800 Selfoss, Iceland September, 2014. During off hours, please Tel: (+354) 894-1275 contact the personnel at Sjafnarblóm, E-mail: fischersetur@gmail.com located on the 1st floor in the same building. Admission: ISK 750kr for Adults, and free for Website: www.fischersetur.is 12 years old and younger. The skálholt cathedral
GPS: 64°07,536N 20°31,503W
Address: Skálholt 801 Selfoss Tel: (+354) 486 8870 e-mail: skoli@skalholt.is www.skalholt.is
The modern cathedral was inaugurated in 1963. It is well known for its works of modern art, as well as for artefacts from previous churches on the site. In the crypt is an exhibition from the National Museum, including the sarcophagus of bishop Páll Jónsson (bishop 1195-1211), unearthed in 1954. Since then archaeological excavations at Skálholt have revealed many interesting finds that can be seen and studied there. Besides holy services every Sunday and morning (laudes) and evening prayers (vesper) on weekdays the cathedral has become renowned for its summer concerts attracting many skilled musicians and lots of music lovers. – 129 –
Folk museum of Árnessýsla – “The House” at Eyrarbakki GPS: 63°51,879N 21°09,236W
GPS: 63°51,875N 21°09,086W
Árnessýsla folk museum is located in Húsið, the House, historical home of the Danish merchants built in 1765. Húsið is one of the oldest houses in Iceland and a beautiful monument of Eyrarbakki´s time as the biggest trading place on the south coast. Today one can enjoy exhibitions about the story and culture of the region. A famous piano, a shawl made out of human hair and the kings pot, are among items are among the items that can be found. Húsið prides itself with warm and homelike atmosphere. The Maritime museum is close by where the beautiful twelve - rower Farsæll is the largest item. A glimpse of the past lives of Eyrarbakki´s villagers is what meets the eye of the guests.
Address: “The House” at Eyrarbakki & Maritime museum IS-820 Eyrarbakki Tel: (+354) 483 1504 & (+354) 483 1082 e-mail: husid@husid.com www.husid.com
Opening hours: Summer: May 1st - September 30th daily 11.00-18.00 or by agreement Winter: By agreement Admittance fee: ISK 800kr
– 130 –
The Ghost Centre
GPS: 63° 50,198’N, 21° 3,890’W
The Ghost Center in Stokkseyri is a ghost museum that features all of Iceland’s most famous ghosts.. Ghost Stories from Iceland: Upon entry, guests are provided with a MP3 player to guide them through the 24 ghost stories. The stories can be listened to in English, German, French, Scandinavian, Japanese, Russian and Icelandic. Icelandic Wonders Icelandic Wonders is a museum encompassing approximately 1200 square meters that is dedicated to Elves, Trolls and Northern Lights. Guests will get a glimpse of how the elves and the hidden people live and they will walk inside the troll’s cave.
Address: Hafnargata 9 825 Stokkseyri Tel: (+354) 483 1202 and (+354) 895 0020 e-mail: draugasetrid@draugasetrid.is www.draugasetrid.is
THE GHOST CENTER & ICELANDIC WONDERS
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st- August 31st Daily from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Other times by request. Admission: See www.draugasetrid.is
the saga centre
GPS: 63° 45,019’N, 20° 13,532’W
Njálusýning Njáls Saga Exhibition Upplýsingamiðstöð Tourist information Kaupfélagssafn Co-op Museum Gallerý Ormur Ormur Art Gallery
Kaffi •• Veisluþjónusta Veisluþjónusta Kaffi Coffee forforgroups groups Coffee •• Catering for Kaffi/Coffee •Catering Veisluþjónusta/Catering groups
Njáls saga saumuð á refil Njáls Saga sewed on a tapestry
Augl.Þórhildar 1625.23
Njálusýning
NjálsNjálusýning Saga Exhibition Njáls Saga Exhibition
SÖGUSETRIÐ - THE SAGA CENTRE • Hlíðarvegi 14 • 860 Hvolsvöllur Sími/Tel. (+354) 487 8781 • njala@njala.is • www.njala.is njalurefill@gmail.com • www.njalurefill.is
– 131 –
Hekla Centre
GPS: 63°59,537N 20°00,840W
Splendid modern exhibition on Mt. Hekla, one of the world’s most famous volcanoes, reputed in olden times to be the gateway to Hell. The exhibition provides insight into the overwhelming power of the volcano, and the way that Icelanders have lived with the mountain over the centuries. The Hekla Centre will provide guidance on the best routes onto the mountain. Other facilities include a fine restaurant and meeting / conference facilities.
Address: Leirubakki, 851 Hella Tel: (+354) 487 8700 e-mail: leirubakki@leirubakki.is www.leirubakki.is
Opening hours: 01/05 – 30/09: Daily 10.00 – 22.00. 01/10 – 30/04: By arrangement Admission fee: Standard: ISK 800, Groups 10+: ISK 700, Children 6-11 years: ISK 400
Keldur at Rangárvellir
GPS: 63°49,300N 20°04,437W
At Keldur there is a turf farm of an ancient type which is one of the largest preserved turf farms in south Iceland. The halls timber frame is a stave construction with decorative mouldings of Roman style. From the hall there is an underground tunnel thought to date from the 12th to 13th century and was probably built as an escape during a time of conflict. In addition to these, several outhouses have been preserved.
Sími: 530 2200 • thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is • www.thjodminjasafn.is Open June 15th-August 15th every day from 9:00-17:00. – 132 –
GPS: 64° 9,658’N, 19° 48,691’W
Búrfell Power Station – Interactive Energy Exhibition
Come see the future of energy! This summer at Búrfell hydropower plant we have an exciting exhibition about how renewable energy in Iceland is produced. As demand for renewable energy continues to increase around the globe, the exhibition focuses on both the opportunities and limitations renewable energy sources present, and gives visitors an insight into their production and use. The exhibition provides a history of how these techniques have been used in Iceland over time and invites visitors to look into the future and at the possibility of harnessing power from Geothermal, Wind and Sea sources. The aim of the Interactive Energy Exhibition is to educate and entertain visitors, and to share knowledge about different energy sources and their effects on the community, economy and environment.
Address: Búrfell Power Station – Þjórsárdalur IS 801 Selfoss Tel: (+354) 515 9000 www.landsvirkjun.com
Opening hours: June 1st – August 31st Daily 10:00- 18:00 Free admission
– 133 –
ÞJÓÐVELDISBÆRINN – THE RECONSTRUCTED FARM HOUSE
Þjóðveldisbærinn Stöng is a reconstructed viking era Long house or farmstead in Iceland, located in the Þjórsárdalur valley near road 32. It is a replica of the building which stood at Stöng 7 km to the north which was buried under volcanic ash in 1104 following the eruption of the volcano Hekla. The reconstruction was built in 1974 as a part of the national celebrations of the 1100th anniversary of the settlement of Iceland in 874. Much of the interior and detail of the reconstruction is based on general ideas and guesswork, but the belief is that the result is quite telling about the dwellings of medieval Icelanders. In 2000, a turf clad stave church
was reconstructed beside the farmstead at Stöng. The Bishop of Iceland, consecrated the church as a part of the 1000 year anniversary of Christendom in Iceland. The Reconstructed Farm house is in Þjórsárdalur. Getting there from the west: Off Main Road 1 past Selfoss unto road 30, direction Flúðir. Turn into road 32 signposted Árnes, which leads into the Þjórsárdalur. From the east: Off Main Road 1 past Hella, unto road 26. Close to Sultartangavirkjun, turn unto road 30 direction Búrfell Power Station.
– 134 –
GPS: 64°07,207N 19°49,236W
Address: Þjórsárdalur 801 Selfoss Tel: (+354) 488 7713/(+354) 856-1190 www.thjodveldisbaer.is
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st - August 31st. Admission: Adults ISK 750 kr. Children under 16 years: Free 67+ years: ISK 500 kr. Groups (+20) each: ISK 500 kr.
– 135 –
the westman islands
Library by Ráðhúströð IS-900 Vestmannaeyjar Tel: (+354) 488 2040 & (+354) 892 9286 e-mail: bokasafn@vestmannaeyjar.is www.vestmannaeyjar.is/safnahus
Sagnheimar, Heritage Museum by Ráðhúströð IS-900 Vestmannaeyjar Tel: (+354) 488 2045 e-mail: sagnheimar@sagnheimar.is www.sagnheimar.is
Opening hours: Summer: June 1st - August 31st Mon-Fri 10.00-17.00 Winter: Sept. 1st - May 31 st Mon-Thu 10.00-18.00 Fri 10.00-17.00 Okt. 1st - May 1st. Sat. 11.00-14.00
Opening hours: Summer: May 12th-Sept. 15th Daily 11.00-17.00 Winter: Sept. 16th-May 11th. Sat. 13.00-16.00 Admittance fee: ISK 1.000 kr. Free for children up to 15 years.
GPS: 63°26,310N 20°16,165W
GPS: 63°26,310N 20°16,165W
In the museum by Ráðhúströð there is an Internet Café during weekdays. There are exhibitions in the foyer open every day.
– 136 –
Aquarium and Museum of Natural History Heiðarvegur 12, IS-900 Vestmannaeyjar Tel: (+354) 481 1997 & (+354) 863 8228 e-mail: saeheimar@setur.is www.saeheimar.is
Admittance fee: ISK 1.000 kr. Free for children up to 15 years.
Eldheimar Gerðisbraut 10 /by Suðurveg 900 Vestmannaeyjar Tel: (+354) 488 2000 e-mail: eldheimar@vestmannaeyjar.is www.eldheimar.is
Admittance fee: ISK 1.900 kr. Family price: ISK 4.800 kr., Senior Citizens and ages 10-18: ISK 1.000 kr., Groups: ISK 1.500 kr. Free for children under the age of 10.
At Sæheimar you can see live specimens of fishes Welcome to the new exhibition ELDHEIMAR, the and other aquatic life, and even touch some. Pompei of the North. Most icelandic bird species are also on display A unique volcanic and geological exhibition about the along with a number of other natural objects. dramatic volcanic eruption in 1973. GPS: 63°26,464N 20°16,582W
GPS: 63° 26,149’N, 20° 15,639’W
Opening hours for Sæheimar & Eldheimar: Summer: May 16th-Sept. 15th Daily 11.00-17.00 (-18.00 Eldheimar only) Winter: Sept. 16th-May 15th Sat. 13.00-16.00. (-17.00 Eldheimar only)
– 137 –
Skógar Museum
Skógar Museum was founded in 1949 and preserves the cultural heritage of South Iceland in the form of tools and equipment used at land and sea, crafts and old buildings. The collection took place at the turning point in the history of the Icelandic nation. The old rural society was vanishing, a new culture was taking root. The museum moved into its own premises in 1955. In 1968 work commenced on the reconstruction of old turf farmhouses, which has been one of the principal parts of the museum´s work. In these buildings, visitors to the museum can see how the people of Iceland lived in past times. In 2002 a large exhibition facility was built at the museum site to house exhibits from the technological age that began in Iceland shortly before the mid-20th century. This new museum, The Museum of Transport and Communication has a spacious cafeteria and a beautiful souvenir shop.
– 138 –
GPS: 63°31,574N 19°29,603W
Address: Skógar 861 Hvolsvöllur Tel: (+354) 487 8845 e-mail: skogasafn@skogasafn.is www.skogasafn.is
Opening hours: Summer: June to August 9.00-18.00 May and September 10.00-17.00 Winter: October to April: 11.00-16.00 Admission fee: Ask for information – 139 –
Katlacenter
GPS: 63° 25,049’N, 19° 0,850’W
Kötlusetur (e. Katlacenter) hosts an exhibition about the volcano Katla. The exhibition is set up with a video, relief map, written text and big pictures. Katlacenter hosts the local information center as well as a local handcraft market. Please visit us on your journey, we bid you welcome!
Address: Víkurbraut 28 870 Vík Tel: 4871395 e-mail: info@vik.is www.kötlusetur.is
Opening hours: Summer: Mon - Fri 10:00 - 20:00 Lau - Sun 11:00 - 18:00 Winter: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 16:00 Admission: ISK 700 kr.
skaftárstofa
GPS: 63° 47,343’N, 18° 3,013’W
sKaftárstofa
tourist information office
exhibitions vatnajökull national park § katla Geopark § History in the sands – the convent in kirkjubær, a multimedia presentation § sediment from skaftá river, the eruptions in Grímsvötn in vatnajökull Glacier 2011 and eyjafjallajökull Glacier 2010 • eldmessa „the firemass“ a short documentary film on the laki eruption in 1783-1784 and its consequences • eruption in Grímsvötn 2011 • western part of vatnajökull national park
Welcome to KirKjubæjarKlaustur – center of the south open Daily 1 apríl – 31 október www.visitklaustur.is www.vjp.is tel. +354 487 4620
– 140 –
PORT hönnun
Documentary films
GPS: 64°00,994N 16°58,013W
Skaftafell Visitor Centre
Skaftafell Visitor Centre is an information centre for the south territory of Vatnajökull National Park. An exhibition tells the story of fire and ice; how volcanoes and glaciers have formed the surrounding region and the effects of eruptions and glacial outburst floods on daily lives of people. Items from the fateful expedition of British students in 1952 are on display along with a short film about the volcanic eruption in Gjálp in 1996. Skaftafell Visitor Centre has a souvenir shop and a restaurant. Wheelchair accessibility. Address: Opening hours: Skaftafell, 785, Öræfi Every day except December 24/25 and Tel: (+354) 470 8300 January 1. e-mail: skaftafell@vjp.is Variable opening hours – see www.vjp.is www.vjp.is Admission: Free
Vatnajökull National Park‘s visitor centres are four: At Ásbyrgi (p. 109), Skriðuklaustur (p. 118), in Höfn (p. 120) and in Skaftafell (p. 141). An information office and exhibition is in Kirkjubæjarklaustur (page 140). – 141 –
Other museums, exhibitions and collections Akureyri Botanical Garden
Eyrarlandsholt
600
Akureyri
Arngrímsstofa in Svarfaðardalur (NMHC)
Tjörn
621
Dalvík
Bardúsa Gallery
Brekkugata 4
530
Hvammstangi
Berg Culture House
Goðabraut
620
Dalvík
Boat and Gift of Nature Exhibition
Maríutröð
380
Reykhólar
East Iceland Photography Museum
Laufskógar 1
700
Egilsstaðir
Eyvindarstofa
Norðurlandsvegur 4
540
Blönduós
Fishing Museum in Grenivík
Sæland 2
610
Grenivík
Galtastaðir in Hróarstunga (NMHC)
Hróarstunga
701
Egilsstaðir
Geysir Center Multimedia show
Geysir Haukadal
801
Geysir
Heritage Center Eyrbyggja
Grundargata 35
350
Grundarfjörður
Hof Cultural and Conference Center
Strandgata 12
600
Akureyri
Hofskirkja -church in Öræfi (NMHC)
Öræfi
785
Öræfi
Hofsstaðir Historic Park
Kirkjulundur
210
Garðabær
Kirkjuhvammskirkja -church (NMHC)
Vatnsnes
531
Hvammstangi
Kvikan -House of Culture and natural Resources
Hafnargata 12a
240
Grindavík
Mánárbakki Museum
Tjörneshreppur
641
Húsavík
Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft
Höfðagata 8
510
Hólmavík
Mývatn Visitor Center
Hraunvegur 8 í Reykjahlið
660
Mývatn
Nanna Guðmundsdóttir collection
Berufjörður II
765
Djúpivogur
National Film Archive of Iceland
Hvaleyrarbraut 13
220
Hafnarfjörður
Núpsstaður (NMHC)
Fljótshverfi
880
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Pakkhús Museum
Ólafsbraut 12
355
Ólafsvík
Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park
Laugardalur
104
Reykjavík
Reynisstaður (NMHC)
Reynisstaður
550
Sauðárkrókur
Sharkmuseum in Bjarnarhöfn
Bjarnarhöfn
340
Stykkishólmur
Slaughterhouse Cultural Center
Kaupvangur 7
700
Egilsstaðir
Snæfellsjökull National Park Visitor Center
Klettsbúð 7
360
Hellnar
Snjáfjallasetur Heritage Center
Snæfjallaströnd
401
Ísafjarðardjúp
Sómastaðir in Reyðarfjörður (NMHC)
Sómastaðir
730
Reyðarfjörður
Staðarkirkja church in Reykjanes (NMHC)
Reykjanes
380
Reykhólahreppur
The Church in Saurbær (NMHC)
Skaftafell
785
Öræfi
The Curch in Sjávarborg (NMHC)
Borg
550
Sauðárkrókur
The Icelandic Folk and Outsider Museum
Svalbarðsströnd
601
Akureyri
The Icelandic Phallological Museum
Laugavegur 116
105
Reykjavík
The Icelandic Printmakers Association
Tryggvagata 17
101
Reykjavík
The Interpretive Center at Thingvellir
Þingvellir
801
Selfoss
The Maritime Museum in Hellissandur
Sandahraun
360
Hellissandur
The Monster Museum
Tjarnarbraut 7
465
Bíldudal
– 142 –
The National Archives of Iceland
Laugavegur 162
105
Reykjavík
The Rock Museum of Rúnar Júl
Skólavegur 12
230
Reykjanesbær
The Visitor Center Sagnagarður
Gunnarsholt
851
Hekla
The Wildlife Museum
Eyrarbraut 49
825
Stokkseyri
Transportation Museum in Skagafjörður
Stóragerði í Óslandshlíð
551
Skagafjörður
Tungufellskirkja church (NMHC)
Tungufell
845
Flúðir
Warehouse at Hofsós (NMHC)
Hofsós
565
Hofsós
Þorvaldseyri Visitor Center
Þorvaldseyri
861
Hvolsvöllur
NMHC = National Museum of Iceland´s Historic Buildings Collection
– 143 –
The Museum Guide 2014 © Gudrun Publishing www.gudrunpublishing.com www.safnabokin.is & www.museums.is Project Manager: Iðunn Vignisdóttir Layout: Jónas Bergmann Björnsson Design: Helgi Hilmarsson & Jónas Bergmann Björnsson Maps: Samsýn ehf. Published with the support of: Flytjandi ehf., Samkaup hf. and Samsýn ehf.
IC ECOLAB RD
EL
Printed in Iceland by Oddi hf. Ecolabelled Printing Company
NO
We would like to thank the many people that contributed to this publication.
Printing volume guaranteed by The Icelandic Tourist Industry Association. 40.000 copies printed
ISBN 978-9979-787-95-2