Living Town History – Exhibitions Reflecting Culture and Community Life

Hafnarfjörður Museum preserves and presents the cultural history of the town through diverse exhibitions that reflect the lives, work and community of the people of Hafnarfjörður from the 19th century to today. Across seven exhibition sites, visitors can experience both everyday life and the stories of influential figures who shaped the town.

The Warehouse – History, Toys and Themed Exhibitions

The Warehouse hosts the permanent exhibition “Thus It Was…”, which traces the history of Hafnarfjörður and its surroundings from the settlement era to modern times through texts, photographs and numerous artefacts. The top floor features an engaging toy exhibition for children, and the entrance hall regularly hosts themed and travelling exhibitions that highlight specific periods or events.

Historic Homes and the Lives of Local People

Siggubær, built in 1902, shows how working‑class families lived in the early 20th century. Sívertsens‑húsið, constructed between 1803–1805, offers insight into the life of an upper‑class family at the beginning of the 19th century. At Bookless Bungalow, visitors learn about the Scottish brothers Harry and Douglas Bookless, who operated a large fishing enterprise in Hafnarfjörður during the early decades of the 20th century.

Trading History and Photographs from the Past

Beggubúð houses a trading‑history exhibition where visitors can see how commerce developed in the town. Along Strandstígur by the harbour, Hafnarfjörður Museum’s photography collection presents exhibitions that shed light on daily life, work and the stories of the people who built the town.

Gúttó – The Cradle of Social and Cultural Life

The Good Templars’ House, known as Gúttó, was the first true community hall in Hafnarfjörður and could hold around 300 people when the town’s population was only about 400. The exhibition “Gúttó – The Templars’ House, Cradle of Social and Cultural Life for 130 Years” tells the story of social gatherings, community events and cultural life in the town.

A Living Connection to History and Community

Hafnarfjörður Museum plays an important role in collecting, documenting and preserving the town’s cultural heritage and presenting it to visitors in an engaging and accessible way. The exhibitions reflect diverse community life, local industries and the history of Hafnarfjörður, creating a unique connection to the past.

Ten Ideas for Activities in Hafnarfjörður and nearby Areas:

1. Explore the elf dwellings and “hidden worlds” of Hafnarfjörður, found in the park Hellisgerði and in the town’s lava formations.
2. Travel back to the Viking Age and join a feast at the Viking Tavern. Visit the annual Viking Festival in Hafnarfjörður in mid‑June.
3. Visit popular cafés, bakeries and restaurants such as Pallett, Brikk and Von Mathús.
4. Enjoy views from Hamrinum or Ásfjall and walk around Ástjörn or Hvaleyrarvatn.
5. Visit Hafnarborg, the town’s cultural and arts centre, and explore exhibitions or attend concerts.
6. Go horse riding with Íshestar in the beautiful nature near Kaldársel and Helgafell.
7. If visiting in December, don’t miss the Christmas Village at Thorsplan.
8. Visit Bessastaðir on Álftanes, the presidential residence, and nearby historical sites.
9. Cycle along the coastline from Hafnarfjörður all the way to Grótta Lighthouse on Seltjarnarnes.
10. Explore the lunar‑like landscape at Kleifarvatn and the geothermal area Seltún in Krýsuvík. From there, it is a short trip to Krýsuvíkurbjarg, known for rich birdlife.