Natural gem in West Iceland Snaefellsjökull National Park is one of Iceland’s most well-known natural areas, where breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife and geological wonders form a unique whole. The national park encompasses Snæfellsjökull glacier and vast lava and coastal areas that have fascinated visitors for decades. Visitor Centres and Services There are two visitor centres in the area that provide …
Dalir District
History and nature The Dalir District is a region where history and nature meet in a unique way. Here you can trace the footsteps of early settlers and the stories of the Icelandic Sagas, while also enjoying tranquillity, diverse outdoor activities and a warm local community. Dalir offers an experience that blends cultural heritage with natural beauty – a place …
Oddi in Rangárvellir
Historic site, church centre and chieftain’s seat Oddi in Rangárvellir is one of Iceland’s most significant historical sites. It has been a church site since the early Christian period. It was also the ancient seat of the Oddi chieftains and scholars. The farm stands on a green point between Ytri-Rangá, Eystri-Rangá and Þverá. For centuries it was a major estate …
Hólar in Hjaltadalur
A Historic Cultural Centre for Nearly a Thousand Years Hólar in Hjaltadalur is one of Iceland’s most significant historical sites, surrounded by majestic mountains and peaceful nature. For almost a millennium, Hólar has served as a centre of culture and education and was the seat of the bishopric from 1106 to 1798. Today, Hólar in Hjaltadalur is home to Hólar …
The Institute of Archaeology
Research, documentation and education in Icelandic archaeology The Institute of Archaeology is a leading organisation in Icelandic archaeology. It has always emphasised high‑quality research, strong collaboration and clear communication. The Institute aims to deepen understanding of Iceland’s cultural heritage through scientific methods, transparency and steady development of the discipline. Archaeological surveys and excavations across Iceland Since 1993, the Institute has …
The Cultural Heritage Agency
The Role of the Cultural Heritage Agency of Iceland The Cultural Heritage Agency of Iceland is the national authority for cultural heritage. It operates under the Ministry of the Environment, Energy and Climate. The agency carries out heritage protection in line with the 2013 Cultural Heritage Act. It aims to safeguard the nation’s cultural and historical heritage. It works to …
Hofsstaðir Historic Park
Archaeology and History of Hofsstaðir Hofsstaðir in Garðabær is a key settlement‑era archaeological site. A large longhouse stood here from the settlement period until the 12th century. Excavations began in 1994 and revealed extensive, well‑preserved remains. These remains show how housing, daily life and society developed in early Iceland. The Settlement Longhouse at Hofsstaðir The longhouse at Hofsstaðir dates from …
The Settlement Exhibition in Aðalstræti
The Story Comes Alive Through Multimedia and Technology The Settlement Exhibition in Aðalstræti is based on archaeological research in the centre of Reykjavík. Visitors learn about the earliest settlement in the area. A 10th‑century longhouse ruin at Aðalstræti 16 is the heart of the exhibition. It was discovered during construction at the corner of Aðalstræti and Túngata. North of the …
Árbær Open Air Museum
Historic Houses and a Living Heritage Site Árbæjarsafn is an open‑air museum in Reykjavík where around twenty historic buildings and the turf farm Árbær create a charming setting reminiscent of a town square, a village and rural Iceland. Visitors can walk through the houses and explore architecture, daily life and the living conditions of people in old Reykjavík. Exhibitions That …
Skriðuklaustur Cultural Centre
The drive along Fljótsdalur (“river valley”) is a bit like travelling back in time. Skriðuklaustur in Fljótsdalur valley is a historical site with the ruins of a 16th century monastery which was revealed in an archaeological excavation in the years 2002-2012. It was an Augustinian cloister, established around 1493 and in function until the reformation in 1550. The cloister was …
Eldheimar – Volcano Museum
Imagine what it was like waking up in the middle of the night to a volcanic eruption in your town! Eldheimar, a volcano museum of remembrance in Westman-Islands, traces the story of the 1973 eruption with a powerful and moving interactive exhibition. Almost all the inhabitants of Heimaey, over 5.000 people, had to leave their homes in the middle of …
Snorrastofa in Reykholt
A Cultural Centre on a Historic Site Snorrastofa in Reykholt is a cultural and medieval research centre dedicated to the legacy of Snorri Sturluson. The centre stands on one of Iceland’s most important historical sites and connects visitors with medieval culture, storytelling traditions and local heritage. Snorrastofa in Reykholt aims to make history and research accessible to all who visit …