The French Museum in Iceland
The History of French Fishermen in Icelandic Waters
The French began fishing in Icelandic waters around 1860. Their activity lasted for about fifty years. The exhibition tells the story of French schooner crews who worked from Fáskrúðsfjörður, their main base in Iceland. Visitors see a vivid picture of life on board the French schooners and gain a clear sense of daily routines and conditions.
The French Hospital and the Doctor’s House
The museum also explains the work of the French Hospital around 1900. Visitors learn how French fishermen received medical care in Fáskrúðsfjörður. The buildings played a key role in the community. Today, both the Doctor’s House and the Hospital are restored and preserved as part of local heritage.
Restoration of the French Buildings
The Icelandic Heritage Preservation Authority completed the restoration of the French buildings in 2014. The site includes five buildings: the Doctor’s House, the French Hospital, the Infirmary, the Little Chapel and the Mortuary. The project is one of the Authority’s most important works and the largest outside Reykjavík.
Present‑Day Use of the French Buildings
Today, the French buildings serve several roles in Fáskrúðsfjörður. They house Fosshotel Eastfjords, the restaurant l’Abri and the museum dedicated to the French in Iceland. The Little Chapel was blessed on 26 July 2014 and still serves its original purpose.
Museum Opening Hours
The French Fishermen in Icelandic Waters Museum is open daily from 10:00–18:00 between 15 May and 30 September. Outside this period, visits can be booked by calling (+354) 470 9063 or emailing sofn@fjardabyggd.is.
Hafnargata 12, 750 Fáskrúðsfjörður 
safnastofnun@fjardabyggd.is 
www.fjardabyggd.is 
(+354) 470 9063
Opening hours: