The Iceland Museum Guide 2019-2020

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MOREMORE INFO AND INFOTICKETS AND TICKETS AT AT www.lavacentre.is www.lavacentre.is 2

VOLCANO&& VOLCANO EARTHQUAKE EARTHQUAKE EXHIBITION EXHIBITION A world class exhibition volcanoes and A world class exhibition onon volcanoes and earthquakes surrounded active volcanoes earthquakes surrounded byby active volcanoes

Centre is situated at Hvolsvöllur on the South Coast of Iceland, TheThe LavaLava Centre is situated at Hvolsvöllur on the South Coast of Iceland, surrounded by active volcanoes.

It truly as the gateway to Iceland’s surrounded by active volcanoes.

It truly actsacts as the gateway to Iceland’s most active volcanic area. most active volcanic area.

Centre received Awards, which cement TheThe LavaLava Centre justjust received twotwo RedRed DotDot Awards, which cement its its position as a world class exhibition. position as a world class exhibition.

every OpenOpen every day day

Iceland Volcano & Earthquake Centre Iceland Volcano & Earthquake Centre Austurvegur 14, Hvolsvöllur · South Iceland Austurvegur 14, Hvolsvöllur · South Iceland

9:00 - 19:00 9:00 - 19:00

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Symbols Museum approved by the Icelandic Council of Museums

Wheelchair Accessible

Wi-Fi

Café/ Restaurant

Souvenir Shop

Iceland Central Reykjavík .................................. 8

Akureyri ............................................... 76

Greater Reykjavík Area ....................... 34

The North ............................................ 82

Reykjanes Peninsula ........................... 46

The East ............................................... 92

The West . . ............................................ 54

The South .......................................... 100

The Westfjords .................................... 62

The Iceland Museum Guide Published by: MD Reykjavík ehf.

Design & production: sbs, sbs@whatson.is

Laugavegur 5, 101 Reykjavik. Tel.: 551-3600 Ad sales: Jóhann Páll Ástvaldsson, Contact us: info@whatson.is

johann@mdr.is

Publisher: Kjartan Þorbjörnsson

Printing: Oddi, Ecolabelled Printing Company.

The Iceland Museum Guide is published yearly. Opinions expressed in The Iceland Museum Guide are those of the individual authors. While every effort has been made to ensure the information presented is accurate, prices, times, dates, and other information may be subject to change.

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No. Museum Page 1 Volcano House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 2 Reykjavík Maritime Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 3 Aurora Reykjavík – Norðurljósasetur. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 4 Reykjavík Museum of Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 5 Reykjavík Art Museum – Hafnarhús. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 6 Central Bank of Iceland Coin Collection. . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 7 The Settlement Exhibition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 8 The Culture House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 9 National Gallery of Iceland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 10 The National Museum of Iceland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

No. Museum Page 11 The Einar Jónsson Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 12 Hallgrímskirkja – the Church of Hallgrimur. . . . . . . . . 22 13 Ásgrímur Jónsson Collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 14 The Nordic House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 15 The Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 16 The Icelandic Phallological Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 17 Art Gallery Fold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 18 Reykjavík Art Museum – Kjarvalsstaðir. . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 19 Reykjavík Art Museum – Ásmundarsafn. . . . . . . . . . . . 19

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The National Museum of Iceland

The National Museum displays objects that provide insight into Icelandic cultural history – displays that encourage visitors to dwell on the past, present, and future. It 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 settlement to the present day. The

museum caters to all ages as children can enjoy games and play dress up.

Adults and children alike can explore the museum via interactive touch screens and audio guides which complement the exhibitions. Guided tours are available from May 1 through September 15 on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 11am. Special Christmas exhibitions are on display from the December 12, when Icelandic Santas visit the museum.

Þjóðminjasafn Íslands Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík +354 530 2200 www.thjodminjasafn.is thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is

Opening hours: May 1-Sept 15: Daily 10am-5pm.

Sept 16-Apr 30: Tues-Sun 10am-5pm. Closed on Mondays.

GPS: 64°08,502N 21°56,911W

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NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

WELCOME TO THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

The National Museum of Iceland Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík

The Culture House Hverfisgata 15, 101 Reykjavík

Opening Hours Daily 10–17 Closed on Mondays 16/9–30/4

www.nationalmuseum.is +354 530 2200 @icelandnationalmuseum @thjodminjasafn

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The Culture House Part of The National Museum of Iceland

ÞJÓÐMINJASAFN ÍSLANDS National Museum of Iceland

Reasons to Perform: Always, Always, Always: Look for the Answer. Gunndís Ýr Finnbogadóttir & Maja Bekan

The exhibition Points of View takes guests on a journey through the Icelandic visual world of past and present. Artifacts and works of art from the varied collections of six institutions provide a reflection of Iceland’s visual art history and cultural heritage. The seven different exhibition rooms create a whole which reflects Iceland’s history, nature, and culture.

The exhibition is a collaborative project of the following institutions: The National and University Library of Iceland, The Icelandic Museum of Natural History, The National Gallery of Iceland, The Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies, The National Archives of Iceland, and The National Museum of Iceland.

Hverfisgata 15, 101 Reykjavík +354 530 2210 www.safnahusid.is thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is

Opening hours: Daily 10am-5pm. Closed on Mondays from Sept 16-Apr 30.

GPS: 64°08,527N 21°54,450W

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The National Gallery of Iceland

The National Gallery of Iceland, established in 1884, is a leading art museum containing many of the main art pieces from Icelandic art culture. Its collection consists mainly of 19th, 20th, and 21st century art. The museum also possesses a fine collection of international art.

Collection, conservation, research, education, and presentation of Icelandic and international art are the principal functions of the National Gallery. The

gallery primarily hosts exhibitions of Icelandic and international art, in conjunction with its informative and educational role. The National Gallery comprises four exhibition rooms in addition to the Vasulka Chamber – a space dedicated to electronic and digital art. The National Gallery also plays host to a pleasant cafÊ-restaurant, and a gallery shop with artistic gifts, art books, and design articles.

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From past exhibitions

n EXHIBITION ROOMS n GALLERY SHOP

n CAFÉ – 2nd floor n LIBRARY – Laufásvegur 12

Guided tours Check our webpage: www.listasafn.is Special guided tours and guidance in foreign languages by request.

Tel. for scheduling +354 515 9600 / 515 9612.

Fríkirkjuvegi 7, 101 Reykjavík +354 515 9600 www.listasafn.is list@listasafn.is

Opening hours: May 15-Sept 15: Daily 10am-5pm.

Sept 16-May 14: Tues-Sun 11am-5pm. Closed on Mondays.

Admission: See www.listasafn.is.

GPS: 65°47,300N 23°59,411W 15

Ásgrímur Jónsson Collection Part of The National Gallery of Iceland

From the home of Ásgrímur Jónsson

The Ásgrímur Jónsson Collection is a special division of the National Gallery of Iceland. Ásgrímur Jónsson’s (1876–1958) is one of the pioneers of Icelandic art. The

museum is situated in Ásgrímur’s former home and studio, and hosts all his works and belongings which he bequeathed to the people of Iceland.

Bergstaðastræti 74, 101 Reykjavík +354 515 9625 www.listasafn.is list@listasafn.is

Opening hours: May 15-Sept 15: Tues, Thurs, Sat & Sun 2pm-5pm. Sept 16-May 14: Sat & Sun 2pm5pm. Closed Dec & Jan. Also open by appointment.

Admission: See www.listasafn.is.

GPS: 64°08,502N 21°56,911W 16

The Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum Part of The National Gallery of Iceland

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 cultural life of Reykjavík.

Laugarnestanga 70, 105 Reykjavík +354 553 2906 www.lso.is lso@lso.is

Opening hours: May 15-Sept 15: Tues-Sun 2pm-5pm. Closed on Mondays. Sept 16-May 14: Sat & Sun 2pm-5pm. Closed Dec & Jan. GPS: 64°08,502N 21°56,911W 17

Reykjavík Art Museum

WELCOME TO REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM - RAM The Reykjavík Art Museum is housed in three unique buildings in the city centre and holds some of the most distinguished works in Iceland’s artistic landscape.

CONTEMPORARY The exhibitions at RAM Hafnarhús are progressive and experimental, emphasising works from established contemporary artists, highlighting current notables, and encouraging the works of newcomers. RAM Hafnarhús is home to the works of the Paris based Icelandic artist Erró (b.

1932), a significant player in the international pop art scene. The museum is located in the oldest part of Reykjavík by the harbour and built in the 1930s.

RAM Hafnarhús Tryggvagata 17, 101 Reykjavík

Erró

Opening hours: Daily 10am-5pm, Thursdays 10am-10pm.

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MODERN RAM Kjarvalsstaðir is named after the painter Jóhannes S. Kjarval (1885–1972), one of Iceland's most influential and recognised artists. The most comprehensive collection of Kjarval’s works is on display in RAM Kjarvalsstaðir, highlighting his range of styles as well his use of local nature and mythology.

RAM Kjarvalsstaðir is situated in beautiful Klambratún Park and is the first building in Iceland designed specifically to display art. Its doors opened in 1973 and it is a fine example of Nordic modernism. The building features floor-to-ceiling windows with a view of Klambratún Park and a beautiful restaurant.

RAM Kjarvalsstaðir - Flókagata 24, 105 Reykjavík Opening hours: Daily 10am-5pm.

SCULPTURE RAM Ásmundarsafn Sculpture Museum is the former modest home and studio of the sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893–1982), who designed and constructed the building. The museum serves to honour his life and work and displays the largest collection of his sculptures both inside and in a beautiful park outside the building. Ásmundur’s art reflects his lifelong interest in the Icelandic sagas, folk tales, nature and classical mythology. The building itself is a magnificent work of architecture, largely inspired by Mediterranean architecture. RAM Ásmundarsafn also houses temporary exhibitions and installations.

RAM Ásmundarsafn – Sigtún, 105 Reykjavík Opening hours: May-Sept: Daily 10am-5pm.

Oct-Apr: Daily 1pm-5pm.

Admission: ISK 1,800. The entrance ticket is valid for 24 hours in all three museums.

+354 411 6400 / www.artmuseum.is #reykjavikartmuseum 19

Reykjavík City Museum Kistuhylur, 110 Reykjavík openairmuseum@reykjavik.is www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is GPS: 64°07,147N 21°48,934W Opening hours: Jun-Aug: Daily 10am-5pm. Sept-May: Daily 1pm-5pm.

Admission: ISK 1,700. Free for children, seniors, disabled, and city card holders. Árbær Open Air Museum is part of Reykjavík City Museum: One museum in five unique places.

A day out of time

preserved in a series of restored homes, where you'll encounter costumed guides, grazing animals, and traditional crafts. Exhibitions, demonstrations, and tours reveal how Reykjavík came to life, from a few scattered farms to a vibrant capital city.

Reykjavík's open air museum, where you can stroll through the past and experience the way we lived.

Fun, fascinating, and full of surprises, this living museum takes you on a journey through time. Reykjavík's early history is

Aðalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6370 reykjavikcitymuseum.is settlementexhibition@reykjavik.is Opening hours: Daily 9am-6pm.

Admission: ISK 1,700. Free for children, seniors, disabled, and city card holders.

GPS: 64°08,850N 21°56,547W The Settlement Exhibition is part of Reykjavík City Museum: One museum in five unique places.

Step into the Viking Age

during construction work, then carefully excavated, these remnants of the past are the earliest evidence of human settlement in the city. Family friendly, including a children's activity area, this multimedia exhibition uses creative technology to immerse you in the Viking Age.

An open excavation where Viking ruins meet digital technology.

Just below ground in downtown Reykjavík, this open excavation uncovers the city's Viking Age history. Discovered 20

Grandagarður 8, 101 Reykjavík maritimemuseum@reykjavik.is www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is Opening hours: Daily 10am-5pm. Daily guided tours of coast guard vessel Óðinn at 1, 2 & 3pm.

Admission: Museum: ISK 1,700. Museum & Óðinn: ISK 2,600. Free for children, seniors, disabled, and city card holders.

GPS: 64°08,959N 21°56,485W Reykjavík Maritime Museum is part of Reykjavík City Museum: One museum in five unique places.

How the ocean formed a nation

with fish transformed into a science that helped create a modern nation.

Exhibitions and artefacts bring our ocean history to life, from battling the waves, to the 'Cod Wars' and beyond. Plus the chance to climb aboard the Óðinn, a 900-ton coastguard ship, with its own stories to tell.

A harbour museum exploring Iceland's dramatic relationship with the sea.

The survival of a nation depended on generations of brave fishermen heading into the unknown. Over the centuries, methods of catching and working

Tryggvagata 15, 6th floor, 101 Reykjavík photomuseum@reykjavik.is reykjavikcitymuseum.is GPS: 64°08,959N 21°56,485W Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 10am-6pm, Fri 11am-6pm, Sat-Sun 1pm-5pm.

Admission: ISK 1,000. Free for children, seniors, disabled, and city card holders.

Reykjavík Museum of Photography is part of Reykjavík City Museum: One museum in five unique places.

Capturing moments, then and now

and an onscreen archive of thousands of images from the past. New work from Iceland and abroad reflects contemporary photography, while extensive archives from 1860–2000 give an insight into Iceland's changing culture and society over more than a century.

Reflecting the contemporary, while archiving the past – this is Reykjavík's home of photography.

Reykjavík's main photography museum offers an ongoing programme of contemporary and historical exhibitions, 21

Hallgrímskirkja The Church of Hallgrimur

Hallgrímskirkja church is a national monument, dedicated to the sacred poet of Iceland, Hallgrímur Pétursson. The parish is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland. Hallgrímskirkja towers over the centre of Reykjavik, and its 73m (240ft) tower provides a wonderful view of the city. Construction began in 1945 and after 41 years, the church was finally consecrated on October 26, 1986. State architect Guðjón Samúelsson (1887-1950) designed the church, which stands on top

of Skólavörðuholt hill. The inspiration for the church’s design is stated to be both from naturally forming basalt formations as well as a volcanic eruption. The enormous concert organ was inaugurated in 1992, constructed by Johannes Klais Organworks from Germany. Since 1982, Hallgrímskirkja’s Friends of the Arts Society has promoted rich and varied artistic events in the church.

A festival of sacred arts is held every other year while the International organ summer is held annually.

Hallgrímstorgi 1, 101 Reykjavík +354 510 1000 www.hallgrimskirkja.is hallgrimskirkja@hallgrimskirkja.is

Opening hours: May-Sept: Daily 9am-9pm.

Oct-Apr: Daily 9am-5pm.

Admission: to the tower: ISK 1,000. Children 8-16: ISK 100, free for children under 8.

GPS: 64°08,525N 21°55,629W 22

The Einar Jónsson Museum

Einar Jónsson (b. 1874 – d. 1954) was Iceland’s first sculptor. When opened in 1923, The Einar Jónsson Museum became the first art museum in Iceland. The museum was also the artist´s studio and home. Einar and his wife, Anna, lived in the penthouse apartment, now a part of the museum. Einar was influenced

by Nordic symbolism and the museum contains close to 300 of his artwork.

In the sculpture garden, behind the museum, are 26 bronze casts of Einar's sculptures.

Hallgrímstorg 3, 101 Reykjavík (next to Hallgrímskirkja) +354 551 3797 www.lej.is lej@lej.is

Opening hours: Tues-Sun 10am-5pm. Closed on Mondays. The Sculpture garden is always open.

Admission: See lej.is.

GPS: 64°08,452N 21°55,700

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Art Gallery Fold

Gallerí Fold is Iceland’s leading exhibition and auction house. Established in 1990, the present proprietors have owned Gallerí Fold since 1992. Gallerí Fold sells the works of over 60 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 six to eight shows are held every year, displaying art by Icelandic and foreign artists. Gallerí Fold is a member of the Icelandic Fine Art Trade Guild.

Rauðarárstígur 12-14, 105 Reykjavík +354 551 0400 www.gallerifold.is fold@myndlist.is

Facebook: /Artgalleryfold Twitter: /artgalleryfold Opening hours: Summer: Weekdays 10am-6pm, Sat 11am-2pm, Closed on Sundays. Winter: Weekdays 10am-6pm, Sat 11am-4pm, Sun 1pm-4pm.

GPS: 64° 8,398’N, 21° 55,977’W 24

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art souvenir Art souvenir is a series of small format books in English, celebrating the work of outstanding artists from across the world. The books are lavishly illustrated and feature a concise overview of each artists oeuvre and life with short quotes and photographs from the artists life.

The series include books on three key figures from the Icelandic art scene: KJARVAL, the pioneer of Icelandic landscape painting, ÁSMUNDUR SVEINSSON, a key figure in modernist sculpture and Iceland’s most famous Pop Artist, the Paris based ERRO.

Erro

Jóhannes Kjarval

Ásmundur Sveinsson

Viking Art

Bertel Thorvaldsen

Akseli GallenKallela

Edvard Munch

Skagen Painters

Gustav Vigeland

Hundertwasser

Francis Bacon

Available at Reykjavík Art Museum, National Gallery of Iceland and on Amazon

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Aurora Reykjavík Norðurljósasetur

Take a walk through history and learn how people and cultures around the world saw the Northern Lights via legends and myths connected to this amazing phenomenon. The museum features interactive displays as well as a specially equipped photo booth

where you can learn how to adjust your camera’s settings should you want to try your hand at capturing the aurora borealis yourself. Enjoy a free cup of coffee or tea while sitting down in the small boutique-style lounge.

Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík +354 780 4500 www.aurorareykjavik.is info@aurorareykjavik.is

Opening hours: Daily 9am-9pm.

Admission: ISK 1,600. Children 6-18: ISK 1,000.

Students/seniors: ISK 1,400.

GPS: 64° 9,151’N, 21° 57,091’W 27

Widely praised for its performances and recordings, the Iceland Symphony Orchestra offers weekly concerts at Harpa Concert Hall in ReykjavĂ­k.

Harpa Concert Hall / sinfonia.is / harpa.is (+354) 528 50 50

Main sponsor:

@icelandsymphony / #sinfĂł

The Nordic House

The Nordic House is an icon of Nordic aesthetics and a cultural institution intended to foster and support cultural connections between Iceland and the Nordic countries. The building is an architectural gem situated in Vatsnmýri, only a 10-minute walk from Reykjavík city centre. The Nordic House organises a diverse program of exhibitions, events, and activities of note in the Icelandic cultural calendar. The house was designed by acclaimed Finnish modernist architect Alvar Aalto (1898-1976). It features most of Aalto’s signature traits and is furnished by his beautiful designs. The Nordic House features a unique library,

the renowned restaurant AALTO Bistro, a boutique with Nordic design objects, as well as concert and exhibition halls showcasing rich art, culture, and design.

An event schedule along with a ticketing service can be found at nordichouse.is.

The Nordic House Opening hours: change depending on events and festivals. Check our event calendar for more information.

Sæmundargata 11, 101 Reykjavík +354 551 7030 (Nordic house) +354 551 0200 (Bistro) www.nordichouse.is info@nordichouse.is

GPS: 64°08,452N 21°55,700

For years, renowned chef Sveinn Kjartansson has welcomed visitors to AALTO Bistro where guests can sample his creative concoctions in the form of a delicious and delightful lunch and dinner.

Opening hours: Daily 10am-5pm.

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The Volcano House

Wonders of the Volcano The Volcano House includes a hands-on mineral exhibition featuring different mineral samples, such as lava from the 2014 eruption of Bรกrรฐabunga and ash from the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajรถkull.

A documentary in English is screened every hour, on the hour, from 9:00 to 21:00.

It focuses on some of the most famous eruptions of Iceland and covers the causes and effects of Icelandic volcanic activity in general. The show is also available in different languages by arrangement.

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The Volcano House is fun and educational for people of all ages, and kids are especially welcome (free for 0-10 years old).

The Volcano House is a great late-night activity (the last show is at 21:00), a good replacement if your tour is cancelled, or if the weather is bad (it’s always nice and warm inside). Drop by anytime!

The Volcano House is a great stop on your museum day. After standing and reading for hours, it’s nice to sit down and watch a movie.

Tryggvagata 11, Reykjavík +354 555-1900 www.volcanohouse.is info@volcanohouse.is

Opening hours: 9am-10pm GPS: 64°08'59.5"N 21°56'41.9"W

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The Icelandic Phallological Museum

The Icelandic Phallological Museum is one of the most informative, humorous, and unusual museums in the world. The world famous “Penis museum” in Reykjavik is the only museum in the world to contain a collection of phallic specimens of each mammal found in a single country. Founder Sigurður Hjartarson started collecting the specimens 40 years ago, making it accessible to the public in 1997 with the opening of the museum.

The Icelandic Phallological Museum contains a collection of more than 220 penises and penile parts belonging to all the land and sea mammals that can be found in Iceland. The foreign section holds more than 40 specimens as well as a folklore section that has 20 pieces on display. All in all, the museum houses more than 380 biological specimens. In addition to the biological section of the museum, visitors can view a collection of about 350 32

artistic oddments and practical utensils related to the museum’s theme.

main shopping street, Laugavegur, right next to the main bus terminal, Hlemmur.

Visitors might enjoy a souvenir corner featuring an exclusive selection of all things phallic. Seeing is believing!

The museum is in a 250m2 (2,700ft2) location in the upper part of Reykjavik’s

Laugavegur 116, 105 Reykjavík +354 561 6663 / 690 3774 www.phallus.is

Opening hours: Daily 10am-6pm.

GPS: 64° 8'34.92"N 21°54'55.83"W

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The Greater Reykjavik Area

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No. Museum Page 1 Pharmacy Museum & Herbal Garden Of Nes. . . . . . . . 36 2 Reykjavik Botanic Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 3 Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 4 Museum of Design and Applied Art. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 5 Hafnarfjörður Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

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No. Museum Page 6 Árbær Open Air Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 7 Mosfellsbær Art Gallery / Mosfellsbær Library. . . . . . 42 8 Gljúfrasteinn – Laxness Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 9 Nesstofa við Seltjörn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

The Pharmacy Museum & The Herbal Garden of Seltjarnarnes The Pharmacy Museum has charming exhibitions displaying the history of pharmacy in the 20th century. The Herbal Garden of Nes is a medicinal and culinary garden communicating the history of herbal medicine.

The museum and the garden are located in Seltjarnarnes, close to a beautiful nature reserve and recreation area on the tip of the Reykjavík peninsula. They are located close to Nesstofa, which was built in 1761-1767 as the official residence

of Iceland’s first medical doctor and pharmacist.

Safnatröð 3, 170 Seltjarnarnes +354 561 7100 pharmmus@internet.is www.lfi.is

Opening hours: Jun 13-Aug 31: Tues, Thurs, Sat & Sun 1pm-5pm.

Admission: Free.

Transport Bus no. 11

GPS: 64°09,468N 22°00,448W

Museum of Design and Applied Art The Museum of Design and Applied Art is the only museum in Iceland that specialises in the field of Icelandic design and applied art. It houses a collection of 3,000 objects such as furniture, graphic design, textile, clothing, ceramics, glass, and jewellery.

It is located in Garðabær, a municipality of roughly 15,000 inhabitants, situated a short drive from the central Reykjavík area.

The museum hosts four to six exhibitions every year, featuring both Icelandic and international design. Visitors can seek out Icelandic design as well as literature in the museum store.

Directions By car: Route 40 and 41. By public transport: Bus no. 1 to Ásgarður.

Garðatorg 1, 210 Garðabær +354 512 1525 honnunarsafn@honnunarsafn.is www.honnunarsafn.is

Opening hours: Tues-Sun 12pm-5pm. Closed on Mondays.

GPS: 64° 5'19.86"N, 21°55'4.70"W

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Reykjavik Botanic Garden

The Botanic Garden is an outdoor collection of plants situated in Laugardalur valley in the heart of Reykjavík. The garden’s main role is to conserve plants for education, research, and delight. It conserves some 3,000 plant species in eight plant collections. The collections give an idea of the enormous diversity of vegetation in the northern temperate zone. During the summer, a variety of events are held in the Botanic Garden.

Fee guided tours in English are available every Friday in June, July, and August at 12:40pm. Flóran Cafe 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 Flóran Café/Bístró on the café’s website, floran.is.

Laugardalur, 104 Reykjavík +354 411 8650 www.grasagardur.is botgard@reykjavik.is

Opening hours: Summer: 10am-10pm. Winter: 10am-3pm.

Admission: Free.

GPS: 64°08'25.38"N 21°52'14.85"W

Facebook: /grasagardur 37

Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park

The Reykjavík Zoo and Family park is a fun day out of for families, offering both domestic animals as well as a theme park.

Open every day of the year, the main focus of the zoo is on Icelandic domestic animals as well as several wild native species, reptiles, seals, and more. During the summer the Family Park offers miniature car rides as well as other activities such as miniature boat racing, shooting competitions, and various other outdoor activities.

Múlavegur 2, 104 Reykjavík +354 411 5900 www.mu.is postur@husdyragardur.is

Opening hours: Summer: Daily 10am-6pm.

Winter: Daily 10am-5pm.

Admission: ISK 900. Children 5-12: ISK 650..

Children 0-4, seniors, and disabled: free.

GPS: 64°08,404N 21°52,277W 38

Gljúfrasteinn – Laxness Museum

Gljúfrasteinn was the home of writer Halldór Laxness (winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1955) and his family for more than half a century. Halldór 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 author’s home is preserved just as it was when he lived and worked there.

and transformed the world during the century. His books and souvenirs can be accessed in the museum gift shop.

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.

The museum features a multimedia presentation dedicated to Laxness’s life and work. Laxness witnessed the better part of the 20th century, and his life and works reflect the cultural, political and intellectual movements that shook

In the beautiful countryside in Mosfellsdalur, right next to Gljúfrasteinn, visitors can take walks to see where Laxness spent his childhood and, in later life, sought his inspiration.

Gljúfrasteinn, 270 Mosfellsbær +354 586 8066 www.gljufrasteinn.is gljufrasteinn@gljufrasteinn.is

Opening hours: Jun 1-Aug 31: Daily 9am-5pm.

Sept 1-May 31: Tues-Sun 10am-4pm. Closed on Mondays. Closed during weekends Nov-Feb. Admission: ISK 900. Seniors and disabled: ISK 700, Children under 18: free. Tour operators get a 10% discount when they book for groups or individuals.

GPS: 64°10,859N 21°34,900W

39

Hafnarfjörður Museum

Hafnarfjörður Museum features the cultural history of the town of Hafnarfjörður through artefacts, photographs, and stories of the town. Hafnarfjörður Museum consists of six houses, and nine year-round exhibitions shedding light on the history and culture of the area. Hafnarfjörður Museum aims to showcase the ever-changing lives of the folks in this seaside town. Today, just under 30,000 people call Hafnarfjörður home.

Vesturgata 8, 220 Hafnarfjörður +354 585 5780 www.museum.hafnarfjordur.is museum@hafnarfjordur.is

Opening hours: Jun-Aug: Daily 11am-5pm.

Sept-May Sat & Sun 11am-5pm. Open for groups by appointment.

Admission: Free.

GPS: 64°04,199N 21°57,607W 40

Looking for more?

The What’s On Iceland tourist information and booking centres are located in downtown Reykjavík.

Visit us at the start of your journey or contact us throughout it. www.whatson.is

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— I C E L A N D I C

RE STAU RAN T & BA R —

Certificate of Excellence ———— 2017 ————

NÝ LENDUGATA 1 4 ( by the ol d harb our) , 1 01 REYK JAV Í K

TABLE R ES E R VAT I O N S : +35 4 5 1 7 1 8 0 0 - WWW. FOR RETTABARI NN.I S 42

Mosfellsbær Art Gallery / Mosfellsbær Library

Mosfellsbær Art Gallery opened in 2005 and is a part of the town's public library. Both the gallery and the library are a central part of the cultural life of Mosfellsbær and are frequently attended by locals and visitors alike. The gallery hosts about ten exhibitions a year with each one lasting around four weeks. Mosfellsbær Art Gallery is an exciting small-town gallery hosting exhibitions by experienced artists as well as newcomers in the field. The gallery emphasizes diversity in exhibitions, both in media and style.

One exhibition might showcase a classic historical overview of textiles, while the next is a funky experimental experience for the senses.

From the art gallery.

Kjarni, Þverholt 2, 270 Mosfellsbær +354 566 6822

Opening hours: Mon-Tues & Thurs-Fri 12pm-6pm, Wed 10am-6pm, Sat 12pm-4pm.

listasalur@mos.is / bokmos.is/listasalur

Admission: Free.

Facebook: /listasalurmoso

GPS: 64° 10,033’N, 21° 41,819’W 43

Nesstofa by Seltjörn Pond

Nesstofa has a unique architectural significance. The house was built in 17611767 as the official residence of Iceland’s first Medical Doctor and first Pharmacist.

The Exhibition Nesstofa focuses on the house itself, its construction and the history of its preservation and landmarks in its history.

Safnatröð 3, 170 Seltjarnarnes +354 530 2200 thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is

Opening hours: June 13th–Aug 31st, daily from 1 pm-5 pm, closed on Mondays

GPS: 64°09,468N 22°00,448W

Transport: Bus no. 11

Admission: Free

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www.knifemaker.is 45

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No. Museum Page 1 Sudurnes Science and Learning Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 2 The Folk Museum at Garðskagi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 3 Giganta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 4 Duus Safnahus, Cultural Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 4 The Reykjanes Art Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 4 The Reykjanes Heritage Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 4 The Reykjanes Maritime Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 4 The Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark. . . . . . . . . . . . 50 5 Viking World. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

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Viking World

KEFLAVÍK AIRPORT Route 41

KEFLAVÍK

REYKJAVÍK

30 minutes that way

Viking World exit 48

Route 41

Visit Viking World and...

Experience what it was like to sail a Viking ship from Iceland to the east coast of North America! The ship is an exact replica of a ninth-century Viking ship.

The ship was sailed across the Atlantic to New York as a part of the millennial celebration of Leifur Eiríksson’s journey to the New World.

Vikings of the North Atlantic At the museum you will learn the story of the Viking expansion across the North Atlantic. The exhibition is produced in co-operation with the Smithsonian Institution and tells the story of the Viking settlers as they settled along the coast of North America.

Great Café Viking World has a café which offers waffles, sandwiches, and traditional Icelandic lamb soup, along with beer, wine and soda.

Good location Only a 10-minute drive from Keflavík International Airport, 15 minutes from the Blue Lagoon, and 40 minutes from downtown Reykjavík.

Vikingabraut 1, 260 Reykjanesbær

Facebook: /vikingaheimar

+354 422 200

Opening hours: Daily 7am-6pm.

info@vikingworld.is

Admission: ISK 1,800. Free for children.

www.vikingworld.is

GPS: 63° 58.526’N, 22° 31.639’W 49

Giganta

At the marina in Gróf, 230 Reykjanesbær

Opening hours: Daily 10am-5pm.

+354 420 3245 / 421 6700

Admission: Free.

www.skessan.is / skessan@reykjanesbaer.is

GPS: 64°00,546N 22°33,271W

Duus Safnahus, Cultural Center

8 Exhibition Halls: The Reykjanes Art Museum The Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark

The Reykjanes Heritage Museum The Reykjanes Maritime Center

Duusgata 2–8, 230 Reykjanesbær +354 420 3245 www.duusmuseum.is duushus@reykjanesbaer.is

Opening hours: Daily 12pm-5pm.

Admission: ISK 1,000. Free for seniors and children.

GPS: 64°00,479N 22°33,448W

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No need to go hungry around Iceland

Suðurnes Science and Learning Center

If you are interested in Icelandic nature and wildlife, research related to the area, and art, the Suðurnes Science and Learning Centre is a place you must visit!

The centre features three exhibitions, including a nature gallery where you can look at taxidermied Icelandic animals as well as live sea creatures.

The historical gallery features the magnificent exhibition Attraction of the Poles, on the life of the French medical doctor and polar scientist Jean-Baptiste Charcot.

of the Seaweed Fairies. The exhibition weaves scientific knowledge about the ocean into the magical world of the seaweed fairies.

In the art gallery you will find the art and educational exhibition Hidden World

Suðurnes Science and Learning Centre also offers an exciting treasure hunt, ideal for families.

Garðvegi 1, 245 Sandgerði +354 423 7555 www.thekkingarsetur.is thekkingarsetur@thekkingarsetur.is

Opening hours: May 1-Aug 31: Mon-Fri 10am4pm, Sat & Sun 1pm-5pm. Other hours for groups year round by appointment, please call +354 423 7551.

GPS: 64°02,475N 22°42,777W

Admission: ISK 600. Children 6-15: ISK 300. Seniors: ISK 400. Groups (10+): ISK 500.

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The Folk Museum at Garðskagi

The Folk Museum is divided into a maritime museum and a local history museum. Opened in 1995, it features various artifacts from the story of Garður that demonstrate farming and seafaring of its residents. The impressive motor collection is what sets Garðskagi Folk Museum apart from any other museum, with its 85 different motors, all in working condition. Artifacts from life on land include: farming artifacts, a century old turning lathe, a homemade organ more than a century old, and other social

artifacts.

Skagabraut 100, 250 Garður +354 422 7220 johann@gardskagi.com www.svgardur.is/byggðasafnið-á-garðskaga

Facebook: /byggdasafngardskaga Opening hours: Apr 1-Sept 30: Daily 11am-8pm.

Oct 1-Mar 31: 1pm-5pm. Other openings by agreement with Jóhann at johann@gardskagi.com.

GPS: 64°04,908N 22°41,319W 53

The West

STYKKISHÓLMUR

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SNÆFELLSJÖKULL

No. Museum Page 1 Akranes Folk Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 2 Borgarnes Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 3 Reykholtskirkja. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 3 Snorrastofa Cultural Centre in Reykholt. . . . . . . . . . . . 60 4 Ólafsdalur by Gilsfjörður; history of 1000 years. . . . . 59

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Akranes Folk Museum

An interesting museum where you can travel back in time and enjoy the history of Akranes and its surroundings with special emphasis on the fishing industry.

The museum’s exhibition is in several old homesteads, as well as featuring boats in an outside area. The permanent exhibition reflects living conditions and life at sea, in rural areas, both at work and play. There’s also a micro-cinema and a space for temporary exhibitions. A visit to Akranes Folk

Museum offers something for all senses.

Ideal for children and grownups alike.

Garðaholt 3, 300 Akranes +354 433 1150 museum@museum.is www.museum.is

Facebook: /akranesfolkmuseum

We also offer: A Forge Iceland’s Sports Museum Various other exhibitions. Inquire further online Café as well as a museum shop A collection of old houses and boats are exhibited in the museum area.

Instagram: /akranesmuseum Opening hours: Summer: Daily 10am-5pm.

Winter: See museum.is.

GPS: 64°19,186N 22°02,654W

Admission: See museum.is.

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Ólafsdalur by Gilsfjörður: History of 1,000 years The main exhibition of Ólafsdalur are the recently found remains of a Viking longhouse from the 9th10th century. Ólafsdalur is a small valley, surrounded by high mountains, where the first agricultural school in Iceland was established in 1880. The exhibition features a beautiful school building from 1896 and the remains of buildings and man-made structures from 1880-1900, as well as interesting walking paths and exhibitions about the history of the school. Coffee and light refreshments are available,

as well organic vegetables grown in Ólafsdalur.

Ólafsdalur by Gilsfjörður, Situated just 6km (3.7mi) from the main road across Gilsfjörður

GPS: 65°25'11.16"N, 21°44'48.07"W

+354 821 9931 / 693 2915

Opening hours: Jun 23-Aug 19: Daily 12pm-5pm.

www.olafsdalur.is

Admission: ISK 800.

Facebook: /olafsdalur

Reykholtskirkja The old church at Reykholt was built between 1886 and 1887 and was restored as close to its original form as possible between 2001 and 2006. It is situated at Snorrastofa, the former residence of Iceland‘s most important saga writer, chieftain and poet, Snorri Sturluson. His works includes the Prose Edda, Gylfaginning, and Heimskringla. Reykholt Church is beautifully proportioned, with fine ornaments at both the church door and the windows. Its exterior form is influenced by Reykjavík Cathedral, while it also has certain features from the Swiss chalet style of wooden buildings, e.g. in its bargeboards and

the semi-circular glazing pattern above the window transoms. The interior of the church has a neoclassical ambiance including the coffered vault, and the ornamentation of pew ends and pulpit.

Reykholt, 320 Reykholt

Opening hours: Daily from 8am-6pm.

+354 433 8000

GPS: 64°39,879N 21°17,536W

snorrastofa.is / snorrastofa@snorrastofa.is 57

Borgarnes Museum

Children Throughout a Century – Oh to be a bird!

further information. Guests can open the cabinets to discover how children lived, laughed, and worked over the past 100 years.

Children Throughout a Century is a unique exhibition centred on the life and surroundings of Icelandic children in the 20th century. The photographs are presented in an unusual way, mounted on walls in which cabinets behind photographs contain objects and

Oh to be a bird! features mounted birds from Icelandic nature.

Welcome to Borgarnes.

Bjarnarbraut 4-6, 310 Borgarnesi

GPS: 64°42'34.80"N, 21°15'7.43"W

+354 433 7200

Opening hours: May-Aug: Daily 1pm-5pm.

Sept-Apr: Mon-Fri 1pm-4pm.

safnahus@safnahus.com

Admission: ISK 1,500. Free for children. Discount available for seniors, disabled, and groups (10+).

www.safnahus.is

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we bleed craft beer WE ARE ON A MISSION TO MAKE OTHER PEOPLE AS PASSIONATE ABOUT GREAT CRAFT BEER AS WE ARE #BREWDOGREYKJAVIK

FRAKKASTÍGUR 8A, 101 REYKJAVÍK

Snorrastofa Cultural Centre in Reykholt

Snorrastofa was founded in memory of Snorri Sturluson, Iceland’s most important saga writer, chieftain, and poet, who settled in Reykholt in 1206 and was murdered there in the fall of 1241. The hot Snorralaug (Snorri’s pool) is one of the most famous ancient structures in Iceland. Snorrastofa manages research projects, runs a library and a gift shop, and provides exhibitions and reception for travellers. Reykholt Music Festival is an annual event in the church, held each year in the last weekend of July.

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Reykholt í Borgarfirði, 320 Reykholt +354 433 8000 snorrastofa@snorrastofa.is www.snorrastofa.is

Opening hours: Apr 1-Sept 30: Daily 10am6pm. Oct 1-Mar 31: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm and by appointment.

GPS: 64°39,879N 21°17,536W

Admission: ISK 1,200. Groups: ISK 1,000.

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The Westfjords No. Museum Page 1 Boat and Gift of Nature Exhibition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 2 Hjallur í Vatnsfirði. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 3 Egill Ólafsson Museum in Hnjótur. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 4 Samúel Jónsson’s Art Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 5 The Jón Sigurdsson Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 6 Blacksmith Workshop Þingeyri. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 7 Natural History Museum in Bolungarvík. . . . . . . . . . . . 68 7 Ósvör Maritime Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 7 The Westfjords Botanical Gardens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 8 Westfjords Heritage Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 8 Turnhús. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 8 Ásgeir's Accordion Collection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 8 Ísafjörður Culture House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 9 The Windmill in Vigur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 9 Viktoriahouse in Vigur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 10 Litlibær in Skötufjörður . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 11 Steinshús. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 12 Memorial Museum Kört. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 13 The Sheep Farming Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

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Boat and Gift of Nature Exhibition The main emphasis of the exhibition is the way our ancestors lived and worked, as well their mode of transport – the clink-built boats; thier form and seafaring ability. Other features of the exhibition are the Eider duck and its down. The area features a tourist information centre and a café where you essentially become a part of the exhibition.

The Old Dairy by Maríutröð, Reykhólar, 380 Reykhólahreppur +354 434 7830 www.visitreykholahreppur.is info@reykholar.is

Opening hours: Jun 1-Aug 31, 11am-5pm.

GPS: 65°27'8.02"N, 22°12'9.26"W

Egill Ólafsson Museum in Hnjótur The Museum of Egill Ólafsson at Hnjótur in Patreksfjörður, displays a unique collection of ancient items from the Southern Westfjords. The museum shows the history of fishing, farming, and everyday life in the area.

The museum features an exhibition about the daring rescue of the British trawler Dhoon that stranded at the Látrabjarg cliffs in 1947, as well as a café and a tourist information centre.

Hnjótur, Örlygshöfn, 451 Patreksfjörður +354 456 1511 www.hnjotur.is museum@hnjotur.is

Opening hours: May-Sept: Daily 10am-6pm.

Oct-Apr: By appointment.

Admission: ISK 1,000. Students, seniors, and groups: ISK 700.

GPS: 65°33,747N 24°09,476W 64

Samúel Jónsson’s Art Museum

The museum features the works and life story of local artist Samúel Jónsson. 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 accomodations.

Brautarholti, Selárdal við Arnarfjörð +356 698 7533 olafur@sogumidlun.is www.sogumidlun.is/pdf/samuel_net.pdf

Opening hours: Open in summer only.

Admission: ISK 500, free for children under 12.

GPS: 65°47'13.24"N, 23°59'28.62"W

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The Jón Sigurdsson Museum

Hrafnseyri in Arnarfjörður, in the Westfjords of Iceland, is the birthplace of Jón Sigurðsson (1811-1879), the leader of Iceland’s struggle for independence from Danish rule in the 19th century.

Jón’s life goal was to liberate the country from Danish rule. His 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.

A replica of his childhood turf home is situated in Hrafnseyri. The area also features a charming wooden church, which was consecrated in 1886.

Hrafnseyri við Arnarfjörð, 465 Bíldudalur +354 456 8260 / 845 5518 www.hrafnseyri.is hrafnseyri@hrafnseyri.is

Opening hours: Jun 1-Sept 8. See hrafnseyri.is for details.

GPS: 65°45,512N 23°27,441W

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Hjallur in Vatnsfjörður The Hjallur homestead is an example of a Westfjords building technique wherein large stones were used in the walls of classic Icelandic turf houses. Large swathes of the Westfjords are littered with these stones. Hjallur is considered one of the largest and most beautiful houses of this kind in the country.

Hjallur was a mansion until the 16th century before being transformed into a rectory.

Among the famous clerics who lived there was Hjalti Þorsteinsson (1665-1745), a versatile artist, best known for his sculptures and paintings. Many of his works are preserved at the National Museum of Iceland.

Vatnsfjörður, 451 Patreksfjörður +354 456 5111 www.thjodminjasafn.is thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is

Opening hours: Daily 8am-6pm at your own risk.

GPS: 65°31'35.11"N, 23°11'42.23"W

Litlibær in Skötufjörður

Litlibær was built in 1895, a timber house with stone side walls and a turf roof.

Around 20 people lived in Litlibær at one

point and the last inhabitants moved out as late as 1969. There is a cafe open at the location all summer.

Litlibær, 401 Ísafjörður +354 894 4809 thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is www.thjodminjasafn.is

Opening hours: May 15-Sept 15 10am-5pm.

GPS: 65°59'9.47"N, 22°48'56.85"W

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Natural History Museum in Bolungarvík Do you want to see a polar bear, or jaw bones from the biggest animal on earth?

How about pieces of huge trees from ancient Icelandic forests?

Are you interested in birds, eggs, seals, foxes, or minerals?

The Natural History Museum of Bolungarík features all of the above.

Come for a visit!

Vitastíg 3, 415 Bolungarvík

Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. Open year round at other times by appointment.

+354 456 7005

Admission: ISK 1,000. Free for children 16 and under. Combined ticket Natural History Museum & Osvör Maritime Museum ISK 1,600.

nabo@nabo.is www. nabo.is Opening hours: Jun 1-Aug 15: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm,

GPS: 66°09,440N 23°14,948W 68

Ósvör Maritime Museum

Ósvör is a reconstruction of a 19th century fishing station. The curator, dressed in a traditional fisherman’s outfit, leads visitors through the station showing them the houses, the fishing boat, and

tools used for fishing and fish processing in days gone by. An insight into the harsh conditions fishermen faced in centuries past in the Westfjords.

Ósvör, 415 Bolungarvík +354 892 5744 / 456-7005 osvor@osvor.is www.osvor.is

Opening hours: Jun 1-Aug 17: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. Open year round at other times by appointment.

Admission: ISK 1,000. Free for children 16 and under. Combined ticket Natural History Museum & Osvör Maritime Museum ISK 1,600.

GPS: 66°09,023N 23°12,918W

The Westfjords Botanical Gardens The garden depicts how Icelanders have used wild plants throughout history, as food, in medicine and in magic. The garden is situated in the centre of Bolungarvík (by the Community Centre). Each plant is labelled with its name in Icelandic, Latin, English, and German. Habitat descriptions are also in English.

Aðalstræti 12, 415 Bolungarvík +354 456 7005 grasagardar@grasagardar.is www.grasagardar.is

Opening hours: Summer: Open 24 hours a day.

GPS: 66° 9,420’N, 23° 15,050’W

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The Windmill in Vigur The only preserved wooden wind-powered grain mill in the country can be found in Vigur. The goldsmith Daníel Hjaltason is reported to have built the mill around 1860. The windmill has since been both enlarged and improved.

Vigur

Opening hours: Accessible by boat from Ísafjörður: Jun 15-Aug 31 Daily or by group appointment.

+354 456 5111 thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is

GPS: 65°27'8.02"N, 22°12'9.26"W

www.thjodminjasafn.is

Viktoriahouse in Vigur 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.

Vigur +354 456 5111 thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is www.thjodminjasafn.is

Opening hours: Boat-trips to Vigur from Ísafjörður: Every year daily Jun 15-Aug 31st or by group-requests GPS: 66°02,855N 22°49,608W 72

Steinshús

Steinshús is an homage to the poet Steinn Steinarr, born in Nauteyrarhreppur parish October 13, 1908. Steinn is considered the most important modernist poet in Icelandic history. The exhibition, which opened in 2015, sheds light on the origins of the poet in Ísafjarðardjúp Bay, how his family was split up, his first encounters with poetry with Stefán from Hvítadalur as well as his studies in

Saurbær with poet and teacher Jóhannes úr Kötlum. The museum showcases Steinn’s first attempts at writing poetry, his studies at Núpur in Dýrafjörður, his life as a freelance worker, and publications of his poems, along with his encounter and life with Ásthildur Björnsdóttir.

The exhibition is both in Icelandic and English.

The Steinn Steinarr House plays host to a café for three months during the summer, offering traditional Icelandic lamb soup as well as coffee, hot chocolate, home-baked bread, cakes, and waffles.

Locally-made jams, soaps, creams, and crafts are also on sale. Free WiFi on site.

For further information call: +354 898 9300 or visit steinnsteinarr.is.

Steinshús–Nauteyri, 512 Hólmavík +354 822 1508 steinshus@steinnsteinarr.is thruman@simnet.is www.steinnsteinarr.is

Opening hours: May 29-Aug 27: Daily 10am-8pm.

Admission: Free.

GPS: 65°54'59.73"N, 22°21'0.53"W

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Memorial Museum Kört

Kört is a little museum located in the middle of Trékyllisvík, where you’ll find beautiful art and craft items. Kört features items made by local people out of driftwood, stones, and textile alongside tools, clothing, and pictures that tell the story of the people’s ancestors. A guided tour around the museum is available.

Trékyllisvík in Strandir, 524 Árneshreppur +354 451 4025 www.trekyllisvik.is kort@trekyllisvik.is

Opening hours: Jun-Aug: Daily 10am-6pm.

Sept-May: by appointment.

GPS: 66° 0'48.91"N, 21°30'58.04"W 74

The Sheep Farming Museum

The Sheep Farming Museum is an interesting and entertaining exhibition about the Icelandic sheep and sheep farming.

The exhibition focuses on providing diverse entertainment for all ages. Children can enjoy themselves in a playroom, while the grown-ups can view the exhibition. The museum has a small science room where people can take a look at various items of interest through a microscope. One of the main attractions in the Sheep Farming Museum are the lambs, which the visitors can bottle feed with milk. Sævangur also houses a small and cosy coffee bar where guests can sit down and relax over a cup

of coffee and authentic Icelandic cakes and bread. A handicraft and souvenir store sells local crafts.

Sævangur, 510 Hólmavík +354 451 3324 / 693-3474 www.strandir.is/saudfjarsetur saudfjarsetur@strandir.is

Opening hours: Jun-Aug: 10am-6pm. Sept-May: By appointment.

GPS: 65°38'29.00"N, 21°35'4.77"W 75

Akureyri

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No. Museum Page 1 Into the Arctic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 2 Akureyri Art Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 3 The Aviation Museum of Iceland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

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Into the Arctic

Into the Arctic offers insight into life in the north and coastal life in Iceland. The museum features an introduction into the life of the Inuit, as well as samples of boats, ships, and airplanes. A quirky museum full of taxidermied animals, old navigational equipment, and clothes from ancient times.

Founder Arngrímur B. Jóhannsson is sure to welcome visitors with open arms.

he decided to expand the collection into a whole museum. Into the Arctic was presented with a part of the work of Hafsteinn Hólm Þorsteinsson, consisting of stuffed animals. Stories, pictures and artifacts come from the Institute of Vilhjálmur Stefánsson, a scientist and Arctic explorer. Into the Arctic also features stories about Vigfús Sigurðsson (named the Greenland Explorer), as well as Wegener and Koch over the Greenland ice sheet. The museum also sells hearty meals as well as local souvenirs.

Arngrímur had amassed a collection of historical maps and charts of the north, so

Strandgata 53, 600 Akureyri +354 588 9050 intothearctic@simnet.is www.nordurslod.is

Facebook: /intothearctic Admission: ISK 1,500. Free for 12 and under.

GPS: 65°41'8.22"N, 18° 4'48.21"W 78

Akureyri Art Museum

The Akureyri Art Museum aims to promote visual arts and culture in the local community as well as in a wider global context. The museum is conveniently situated in the town centre in Listagil (Art Street). The museum hosts several

diverse art exhibitions showcasing the works of artists, young and old, Icelandic and international, featuring everything from illustrations and photography to performance art and installations.

Kaupvangsstræti 8, 600 Akureyri +354 461 2610 listak@listak.is listak.is

Opening hours: May-Sept: Daily 10am-5pm.

Oct-Apr: Daily 12pm-5pm except Dec 24, 25, 31 and Jan 1.

Admission: ISK 1,500.

GPS: 65°40'49.22"N, 18° 5'31.02"W 79

The Aviation Museum of Iceland

The Aviation Museum of Iceland is a must visit for aviation lovers. The museum features airplanes both small and large as well as an overview of aviation in Iceland.

It first opened its doors to the public on the May 1, 1999. Located right next to Akureyri airport, the museum’s main goal is to preserve Iceland’s aviation history.

Akureyri Airport, 600 Akureyri +354 461 4400 flugsafn@flugsafn.is www.flugsafn.is

Opening hours: Jun-Sept: Daily 11am-5pm.

Oct-May: 2pm-5pm, or by appointment.

Admission: ISK 1,500 for 12 years and older, free for younger.

GPS: 65°39,115N 18°04,564W 80

húsavík original whale watching

“ONE OF THE MOST INCREDIBLE DAYS OF MY LIFE”

Book your whale watching tour! call +354 464 7272 or book your adventure at

www.northsailing.is

The North

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No. Museum Page 1 Húsavík Whale Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 2 Textile Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 3 The Museum of Prophecies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 3 Árnes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 4 The Skagafjörður Heritage Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 5 The Cathredal at Hólar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

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No. Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 6 The Herring Factory at Hjalteyri. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 8 The Transportation Museum at Ystafell. . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 9 Sigurgeir’s Bird Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 10 Mánárbakki Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 11 Sæluhús Refuge by Jökulsá á Fjöllum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 12 Sauðanes on Langanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Húsavík Whale Museum

The Húsavík Whale Museum is a non-profit organization founded in 1997. The aim of the museum is to convey information about whales, marine ecology, and the interaction of whales and humans through history in an entertaining and interesting way.

Rated on TripAdvisor as one of the top attractions in North of Iceland, the museum has over 8 exhibition rooms and is one of the few museums in the world solely dedicated to whales. On display are numerous different whale skeletons and fascinating facts about whales. In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the museum's educational program Whale School has its own exhibition room. Along with this, the 84

museum houses a cosy coffee corner where guests can take a break and grab a book. A documentary runs in the cinema room.

exhibits along with the enormous blue whale skeleton.

A small gift shop is located in the entrance hall. Various whale-related items can be found there as well as books, T-shirts, posters, and handmade items.

The Húsavík Whale Museum has 11 full size whale skeletons on display. A full-size narwhale skeleton with its unicorn-like tusk is one of the museums most spectacular

Hafnarstétt 1, 640 Húsavík +354 414 2800 www.hvalasafn.is

Admission: Adults ISK 2.000, Children (10-18 years) ISK 500, Family price (2 adults, 1-5 children) ISK 4.200, Seniors, students or disabled ISK 1.600, Adults (whale watching discount) ISK 1.600, Groups (8+) ISK 1.500

Opening hours: November – March: 10am4pm, Closed on weekends; April & October: 10am-4pm; May & September: 9am-5pm; June – August:8:30am-6:30pm

GPS: 66°02'48.8"N 17°20'48.4"W

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Textile Museum The Textile Museum in Blönduós is the only museum specifically focused on textile in Iceland. The museum is located in a beautiful building, featuring several unique and independent exhibitions of embroideries as well as Icelandic national costumes. The Halldóra room is dedicated to the life and work of Halldóra Bjarnadóttir (1873-1981), a former headmistress who took an active part in the social life in the area, as well as a wool exhibition. The museum hosts a special exhibition each year, showcasing Icelandic textile artists and designers. Árbraut 29, 540 Blönduós +354 452 4067 www.textile.is / textile@textile.is

Opening hours: Jun-Aug: Daily 10am-5pm.

Sept-May: By appointment.

Admission: Free for children under 16, discount for groups.

GPS: 65°39'44.21"N, 20°17'36.52"W

Árnes Árnes is a unique example of a home and lifestyle in early 20th century Iceland. The small wooden house, built at the end of the 19th century, is mostly in its original shape and structure. The furniture is from the local heritage museum or borrowed from other museums, and some items belonged to the former inhabitants of the house.

Árnes, 545 Skagaströnd +354 455 2700 skagastrond@skagastrond.is www.skagastrond.is

Opening hours: Jun-Aug: Daily 8:30am-6:30pm.

May & Sept: Daily 9am-5pm. Apr & Oct: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. Nov-Mar 10am-4pm.

Admission: ISK 2,000. Children 10-18: ISK 500.

Family price: ISK 4,200. Seniors, students, disabled: ISK 1,600. Groups (8+): ISK 1,500.

GPS: 65°39'44.21"N, 20°17'36.52"W

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The Museum of Prophecies

The exhibition focuses on Þórdís the fortune-teller, the first named inhabitant of Skagaströnd, who lived in the area in the late 10th century. A painted tapestry tells her story, guiding visitors through the exhibition, which features all kinds of

interesting information about prophecies and fortune telling. Visitors can have their fortunes told and their palms read upon request. Children can examine Þórdís’s gold chest where various interesting things are hidden.

Menningarf. Spákonuarfur, 545 Skagaströnd +354 861 5089 dagny@marska.is / www.spakona.is

Opening hours: Summer: Tues-Sun 1pm-6pm.

Closed on Mondays. Winter: By appointment.

GPS: 65°49,381N 20°18,317W

The Cathedral at Hólar The Cathedral at Hólar is the oldest stone church in Iceland, consecrated in 1763. The present church is the fifth cathedral at Hólar, since the foundation of Hólar as a bishopric in 1106. The cathedral is home to some of the most precious church artifacts in all of Iceland, all of them kept in their original place, including the celebrated altarpiece Hólabrík.

Hólar í Hjaltadal, 551 Sauðárkrókur +354 453 6300 / 453 6302 / 895 9850 www.kirkjan.is/holadomkirkja holabiskup@kirkjan.is

Opening hours: May 15-Sept 1: Daily 10am-6pm.

Sept 2-May 14: By appointment at +354 895 9850.

Admission: Free, donations accepted.

GPS: 65°43'58.40"N, 19° 6'55.85"W 87

The Skagafjörður Heritage Museum The main exhibition is in the old Glaumbær turf farmhouse. It depicts everyday life in a well-to-do traditional Icelandic turf house from around 1850 to 1950. 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 tearoom, which offers traditional cakes and other baked goods.

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.

The head office and exhibitions of the Skagafjörður Heritage Museum are located in three historic buildings on the museum grounds at Glaumbær in Skagafjörður.

Glaumbær, 561 Varmahlíð +354 453 6173 byggdasafn@skagafjordur.is glaumbaer.is & skagafjordur.is/byggdasafn

Opening hours: See website.

Admission: See website.

GPS: 65°36'38.33"N, 19°30'14.76"W

The Herring Factory at Hjalteyri The herring factory in Hjalteyri, North Iceland was built in 1937 and closed its doors in 1966. Nowadays, the concrete hull is occupied by an artist-run space (Verksmiðjan), as well as studios. This unique space is comprised of three levels, covering a total of 1,500m2 (16,150ft2).

The factory provides a very inspiring and creative setting, and has mostly been used to house installation art. The building, its story, and its surroundings spur many fresh ideas, and the works shown here are often produced especially with

the factory in mind with the help of the Verksmiðjan association.

Hjalteyri, Hörgársveit, 601 Akureyri +354 461 1450 / 692 7450 www.verksmidjanhjalteyri.com verksmidjan.hjalteyri@gmail.com

Opening hours: May 5-Nov 30: Tues-Sun 2pm-5pm. Closed on Mondays. Other times by appointment.

GPS: 65°51'3.91"N, 18°11'32.21"W

Facebook: /verksmidjan.hjalteyri

Admission: Free, donations accepted.

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Sæluhús Refuge by Jökulsá á Fjöllum 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 the most favourable crossing points.

The refuge was built around 1880 by using stone materials. The house was said to be haunted by an animal the size of a year-old calf, with thick fur.

Sæluhús við Jökulsá á Fjöllum, 660 Mývatn

Opening hours: See website.

+354 530 2200 / www.thjodminjasafn.is

GPS: 65°11'33.63"N, 16°13'23.27"W

thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is

The Transportation Museum at Ystafell The Transportation museum’s main role is to preserve and show various means of transportation and present interesting facts on the subject.

It was established by Ingólfur Kristjánsson and Kristbjörg Jónsdóttir in 1998, the oldest of its kind in Iceland. Ingólfur had amassed and collected spare parts, machinery, and cars of all kinds for half a century. The Transportation Museum is the result of his efforts and dedication.

Ystafell, Kaldakinn, 641 Húsavík +354 464 3133 / 861 1213 www.ystafell.is sverrir@islandia.is

GPS: 65°46'49.87"N, 17°34'43.88"W Opening hours: May 15-Sept 30: Daily 10am-8pm.

Admission: Free for children under 11.

Disabled access.

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Sigurgeir’s Bird Museum

An adventure world for bird enthusiasts Enjoy information and refreshments in the world’s foremost bird paradise in Mývatn. The museum houses about

180 species of birds, more than 300 bird specimens, and numerous eggs. The museum has bird watching binoculars for bird enthusiasts, as well as various multimedia features on local birds.

Ytri Neslönd, 660 Mývatn

Opening hours: Jun 1-Aug 24: Daily 9am-6pm.

Aug 25-May 31: Daily 2pm-4pm.

+354 464 4477

Admission: ISK 1,500. Groups (+10): ISK 1,200.

Seniors and children 7-14: ISK 800. Children 0-6; free.

fuglasafn@fuglasafn.is www.fuglasafn.is GPS: 65°37,730N 16°59,700W 90

Mánárbakki Museum Travel through time. Iceland has gone through tremendous changes over the centuries and specially the past few decades.

Over the years many artifacts and antiques have vanished or become scarce. At Mánárbakki Museum, located on Tjörnes peninsula about 15 minutes north of Húsavík, you can travel through time as these artifacts and memories have been carefully preserved in a traditional turf house.

In the yellow house of “Thorshammer,” you’ll discover various exciting items that recreate the local history from early

settlement to the modern day.

Tjörneshreppi, 641 Húsavík +354 864 2057 / 464 1957

Opening hours: Jun 1-Aug 31: Daily 10am-6pm.

Other times by appointment.

manarbakki@visir.is

GPS: 66°11,983N 17°06,253W

Sauðanes on Langanes The Sauðanes house is a part of the house collection of the National Museum of Iceland and is a very interesting stop. The parsonage in Sauðanes was built in 1879 of hewn stone.

On site is also a display on the local history of the Langanes area.

Langanes, 6.4km (4mi) north of Þórshöfn +354 468 1430 www.thjodminjasafn.is thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is

GPS: 66°14'45.44"N, 15°15'35.34"W Opening hours: Jun 15-Aug 31: Daily 11am-5pm.

Admission: ISK 800. Groups (10+) and seniors: 600 ISK. Children under 16: free.

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No. Museum Page 1 Múlastofa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 2 Bustarfell museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 3 East Iceland Heritage Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 4 The East Iceland Museum of Natural History. . . . . . . . 98 4 The Jósafat Hinriksson’s Maritime Museum. . . . . . . . . 98 4 Tryggvi Ólafsson Art collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

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No. Museum Page 5 The East Iceland Maritime Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 6 The Icelandic Wartime Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 7 The French Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 8 Skriðuklaustur - Centre of Culture & History. . . . . . . . 96 9 The Icelandic Wilderness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Bustarfell museum

Bustarfell in Vopnafjörður is one of the most beautiful and best kept turf houses in Iceland. Guided tours around the museum are available daily in summer and by appointment during winter.

The museum often comes alive during the weekends with various events and exhibitions featuring old workmanship as well as delicious local refreshments in Hjáleigan Café.

Bustarfell, 690 Vopnafirði

Opening hours: See website.

+354 855 4511

Admission: ISK 1,100. Groups (10+) and seniors: ISK 900. Children 9-13: ISK 300. Free for children under 9.

bustarfell@simnet.is www.bustarfell.is

GPS: 65°36,940N 15°05,880W 94

The Icelandic Wilderness Center The Wilderness Centre is a centre of recreation. Experience a visually stunning exhibition where you can walk into the adventures of the Icelandic wilderness and be touched by the dramatic struggle between the forces of nature and the Icelander’s fight to survive. A cosy homestyle kitchen offers local food, and there are several options for accommodation.

Riding, hiking, or biking along the nearby river into the peaceful valley is a pleasure, with breath-taking scenery, waterfalls, and cliffs. Those who dare can

try out the traditional cable bridge that stretches across the river.

Óbyggðasetur Fljótsdal, 701 Egilsstaðir

GPS: 64°57'54.09"N, 15° 9'16.52"W

+354 440 8822 / 896 2339

Opening hours: May 15-Sept 15: exhibition daily 11am-6pm, restaurant daily 8am-9pm. Sept 16-May 14: Open Mon-Fri for lunch and exhibition by appointment.

www.wilderness.is info@wilderness.is

Múlastofa

Múlastofa in Vopnafjörður is a memorial exhibition featuring the works of the brothers Jón Múli Árnason and Jónas Árnason, both of whom were born in Vopnafjörður. The brothers were well known in Iceland for their art and skills in music, lyric writing, theatre, and other art forms.

Jón Múli (1921-2002) was a composer who wrote world-class melodies. Jónas (19231998) wrote the lyrics to their songs with a local touch, deeply rooted in everyday life.

The exhibition is situated in Kaupvangur, a beautifully renovated building near the old harbour in Vopnafjörður.

Hafnarbyggð 4a, 2nd floor, 690 Vopnafjörður +354 473 1331 www.visitvopnafjordur.com

Opening hours: See website.

Admission: ISK 600. Free for children 14 and under.

GPS: 65°45'12.17"N 14°49'35.92"W

info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is 95

Skriðuklaustur Centre of Culture & History

Historical site showcasing the ruins of a 16th century monastery and the home of renowned writer Gunnar Gunnarsson.

Built in 1939, it is one of Iceland’s most historic buildings, bequeathed to the nation by the writer in 1948. The museum about Gunnar features exhibitions and

events of various kind concerning local culture and nature. Personal guidance is guaranteed. Lunch and cake buffet available every day during the summer at the Klausturkaffi restaurant, with local specialties.

Gunnarsstofnun, Skriðuklaustur, 701 Egilsstaðir +354 471 2990 www.skriduklaustur.is klaustur@skriduklaustur.is

Opening hours: Open daily Jun-Aug: 10am-6pm, May & Sept: 11am-5pm, Apr & Oct: 12pm-4pm, Nov-Mar: subject to change (contact for hours).

Admission: Museum: ISK 1,100, free for 16 and under. Guided tour of ruins for groups ISK 600 per person.

GPS: 65° 2'29.10"N, 14°57'11.78"W 96

East Iceland Heritage Museum The East Iceland Heritage museum has two permanent exhibitions – one featuring the reindeer in East Iceland and one concerning old rural households in the region. The museum also showcases diverse temporary exhibitions through the year.

Reindeer in East Iceland The East is the only part of Iceland were you will find wild reindeer, believed to have been brought to the country for sport hunting by the Danish king. They contribute to the unique nature and are strongly connected to the region’s history and culture. The focus of the exhibition is on nature as well as the characteristics of the reindeer and their survival.

The exhibition also covers reindeer hunting, and how reindeer products have contributed to a creative development of fashion design and handicraft.

The old rural household as a self-sufficient entity On display are items that belong to the history of the old rural community in East Iceland as it was until the mid-20th century. Most of them relate to their practical role in everyday life while others bear witness to a life not only about basic survival, but also centred on creating beautiful items for decoration and pleasure.

East Iceland Heritage Museum, Laufskógar 1, 700 Egilsstaðir +354 471 1412 www.minjasafn.is minjasafn@minjasafn.is

GPS: 65°08,508N 13°40,205W Opening hours: Jun-Aug: Daily 10am-6pm.

Sept-May: Tue-Fri 11am-4pm.

Admission: ISK 1,200. Students, seniors, and disabled: ISK 1,000.

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The Museums of Fjarðabyggð Six wonderful museums • Find your favourite one All museums are open daily from June-August or by appointment at +354 470 9063

Tryggvi Ólafsson Art Collection The artists Tryggvi Ólafsson is one of Iceland’s best-known contemporary artists. Born in 1940 at Norðfjordur in Fjarðabyggd, he studied at the The Icelandic College of Art and Crafts from 1960 to 1961 and at the Royal Art Academy in Copenhagen from 1961 to 1966. The exhibition features his life’s work.

Jósafat Hinriksson’s Maritime Museum The museum displays interesting objects relating to fishing, iron work, boat building and Icelandic people of ages past. It displays a replica of Jósafat’s father’s old iron workshop where Jósafat 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.

Featured are Icelandic mammals, shellfish, birds, insects, and a stone collection as well as specimens of East Icelandic flora.

+354 477 1446 / 470 9063

Opening hours: Summer: Daily 1pm-9pm or by appointment.

sofn@fjardabyggd.is

GPS: 65°08,508N 13°40,205W

Egilsbraut 2, 740 Neskaupstað

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The East Iceland Maritime Museum 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 situated in an old commercial building called “Gamla búð” (Old Store), built in 1816.

Strandgata 39b, Eskifjörður +354 476 1605 / 470 9063

Opening hours: Summer: Daily 1pm-5pm or by appointment.

sofn@fjardabyggd.is

GPS: 65°04,202N 14°00,597W

The Icelandic Wartime Museum Travel back to the days of World War II and the military occupation of Reyðarfjörður in the Icelandic Wartime Museum. The museum gives vivid insight into life during the war and the effects of Allied troop presence in the area. The main focus is on the impact of the occupation on the Icelandic people.

Spítalakamp v/Hæðargerði, 730 Reyðarfjörður +354 470 9000 / 470 9063

Opening hours: Summer: 1pm-5pm or by appointment.

sofn@fjardabyggd.is

GPS: 65°02,190N 14°12,343W

The French Museum The French Museum traces the history of French sailors in Iceland in an interesting and exciting way. Fáskrúðsfjörður has a strong historical connection to France, hosting the weekend-long ‘French Days’ festival each year. The museum is situated in the French Hospital in Fáskrúðsfjörður, where the Icelandic Antiquities Preservation Society has rebuilt several period French houses, and restored them to their original state.

Franski spítalinn, Hafnargötu 12,

Opening hours: Summer: 10am-6pm or by appointment.

750 Fáskrúðsfjörður

GPS: 64°55,683N 14°00,318W

+354 475 1170 & 470 9063 sofn@fjardabyggd.is 99

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No. Museum Page 1 Skógar Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 2 Pompei of the North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 3 Keldur at Rangárvellir. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 4 Hekla Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 5 Skálholtskirkja. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 6 Folk Mus. of Árnessýsla -The House at Eyrarbakki . . 111 7 The Bobby Fischer Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 8 LÁ Art Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 9 Geothermal Exhibition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 10 Lava Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

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Skógar Museum

Skógar Museum is a time capsule of Iceland’s past: explore Iceland’s cultural heritage through folk crafts, turf houses, Viking age artifacts, historic fishing boats, indoor-outdoor museum grounds with traditional buildings, rare books, natural sciences, SAR (Search and Rescue),

antique cars, trucks, special transport, communication technology, and much more!

Situated one minute from Skógar Waterfall, a two-hour drive southeast of Reykjavík, 30 minutes from Vík.

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Skógar, 861 Hvolsvöllur +354 487 8845 skogasafn@skogasafn.is www.skogasafn.is

Facebook: /SkogarMuseum Opening hours: Jun-Aug: Daily 9am-6pm.

Sept-May: Daily 10am-5pm.

GPS: 63°31,574N 19°29,603W 103

Lava Centre

LAVA “Iceland Volcano & Earthquake Centre” will reveal the epic forces of nature that shape our planet and created Iceland only 20 million years ago. LAVA is dedicated to the unique volcanoes and geology of Iceland.

The centre features an interactive, educational exhibition exploring the art and science of geology, and the volcanic

systems in Iceland. The LAVA Centre also showcases an educational learning centre for geology where staff members will educate visitors to make the visit as enjoyable and memorable as possible.

The interactive exhibition displays a collection of artifacts, films, and graphics from various volcanic eruptions that have occurred in the past century.

Hvolsvelli, 860 Hvolsvöllur

GPS: 63°45'14.24"N, 20°14'18.12"W.

+354 415 5200

Opening hours: Daily 9am-7pm.

info@lavacentre.is

Admission: Exhibition and volcano cinema: ISK 2,900. Seniors: ISK 2,200. Children 12-18: ISK 1,450.

lavacentre.is

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LÁ Art Museum

The Listasafn Árnesinga Art Museum has been an important venue of modern and contemporary art since 1963. Feel free to explore local art, relax in the café, and browse through art literature. Children have their own creative space in the museum, so art enthusiast parents can relax while enjoying the art on display.

Located in the geothermal hot spot town of Hveragerði, only a 40-minute drive from Reykjavík.

Austurmörk 21, 810 Hveragerði +354 483 1727 listasafnarnesinga.is listasafn@listasafnarnesinga.is GPS: 63°59,778N 21°11,129W

Admission: Free.

Facebook: /listasafnarnesinga Opening hours: May-Sept: Daily 12pm-6pm. OctApr: Thurs-Sun 12pm-6pm. Closed mid-December to mid January.

Pompei of the North

The exhibition focuses on the 1973 volcanic eruption in Vestmannaeyjar. Visitors get a glimpse into people’s lives on Heimaey before the eruption that would change their lives forever. The eruption started in the early hours of January 23 and lasted for 5 months. Eldheimar gives visitors the chance to go back in time and learn about this dramatic event. The highlight of the exhibition is the house on Gerðisbraut 10, which after being buried in ash and lava for over 40 years, has been excavated and shows how cruelly nature treated the homes of so many islanders.

The show also covers the Surtsey eruption, the island that emerged from the ocean south of Heimaey in 1963. The Gerðisbraut 10, 900 Vestmannaeyjar +354 488 2700 www.eldheimar.is eldheimar@vestmannaeyjar.is GPS: 63°26'6.29"N, 20°15'37.26"W

Surtsey eruption lasted for almost 4 years.

Access to the island has been restricted to scientists, in order to monitor how new ecosystems develop. Surtsey is listed as a natural wonder on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Opening hours: May 1-Oct 14: Daily 10:30am6pm. Oct 15-Apr 30: Wed-Sun 1pm-5pm.

Admission: ISK 2,300. Family price: ISK 5,500.

Seniors: ISK 1,700. Children 10-18: ISK 1,200.

Children under 10: free. Groups (15+): ISK 1,800.

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Hekla Center

Splendid modern exhibition on Hekla, one of the world’s most famous volcanoes, believed 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. Various cultural events are held at the centre, which is decorated by an art piece made from lava by Ragna Róbertsdóttir.

The building is beautifully designed

by EON architects and won the Interior Design Magazine award in 2014. The Hekla Centre provides guidance on the best routes near the mountain. Other facilities include a fine restaurant and meeting and conference facilities.

Leirubakki, 851 Hella +354 487 8700 leirubakki@leirubakki.is www.leirubakki.is

Opening hours: May-Sept: Daily 10am-10pm.

Oct-Apr: By appointment.

Admission: ISK 900. Groups (10+): ISK 700.

Children 6-11: ISK 450.

GPS: 63°59,537N 20°00,840W 107

Keldur at Rangárvellir Keldur is home to a traditional turf house, one of the largest preserved turf farms in South Iceland.

The timber frame is a stave construction with decorative Roman-style mouldings.

The house also features an underground hall thought to date from the 12th to 13th century and probably built as an escape route during a time of conflict. In addition to this, several farm buildings in the Keldur area have been preserved.

Keldur, 851 Hella +354 530 2200 / www.thjodminjasafn.is thjodminjasafn@thjodminjasafn.is

Opening hours: See website.

GPS: 63°49,300N 20°04,437W

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Skálholtskirkja Cathedral

Skálholt Cathedral is the official church of the bishop of Skálholt.

The modern cathedral, which was consecrated in 1963, is well known for its works of modern art, as well as for artefacts from previous churches on the site. The area features a National Museum of Iceland exhibition, 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. Besides holy services every Sunday, and morning (laudes) and evening prayers (vesper) on weekdays, the cathedral has become renowned for its summer concerts.

Skálholt, 801 Selfoss +354 486-8870 www.skalholt.is / skalholt@skalholt.is

Opening hours: Daily 9am-6pm.

GPS: 64° 07,536’N, 20°31,503’W

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The Bobby Fischer Center

GENS UNA SUMUS

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THE BOBBY FISCHER CENTER The Bobby Fischer Centre showcases items related to the great chess genius Bobby Fischer. He became World Chess Champion in Reykjavík 1972 when he beat Soviet champion Boris Spassky in “The Game of the Century.” In his later years, he settled in Iceland, and his grave is at Laugardælir, about 2km (1.2mi) away from the centre.

The centre is also a club house for local chess clubs and offers lectures about chess and chess-related matters.

Austurvegur 21, 800 Selfoss +354 894 1275 fischersetur@gmail.com www.fischersetur.is

Opening hours: May 15-Sept 15: Daily 1pm-4pm & 7:30pm-9:30pm and by appointment.

Admission: ISK 1,000. Free for children 14 and under.

GPS: 63°56'14.39"N, 20°59'46.45"W 110

Folk Museum of Árnessýsla / The House at Eyrarbakki

Árnessýsla folk museum offers a glimpse into the past lives of Eyrarbakki’s villagers. It is located in Húsið (the House), a historical home of 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, visitors can enjoy exhibitions about the story and culture of the locals. A famous piano, a shawl made out of human hair, and the king’s pot are among the items that can be discovered at Húsið. Húsið prides itself on its warm and

The House at Eyrarbakki & Maritime Museum, 820 Eyrarbakki +354 483 1504 / 483 1082 www.husid.com husid@husid.com

homey atmosphere. The Maritime Museum is close by, where the beautiful twelve-rower Farsæll is found.

Opening hours: May-Sept: Daily 11am-6pm or by appointment. Winter: By appointment.

Admission: ISK 1,000.

GPS: 63°51'52.35"N, 21° 9'16.42"W 111

Wonders of the Volcano Volcano Documentary and Geological Exhibition in Reykjavík, next to the Old Harbour.

Open until 22:00 every day.

“Great intro to Iceland!”

Tryggvagata 11, Reykjavík | +354 555 1900 | volcanohouse.is

Geothermal Exhibition

The Geothermal Energy Exhibition at the Hellisheiði Power Plant.

The Hellisheiði Power Plant is the largest single-site geothermal power plant in the world, and it has tremendous potential to be expanded in the future. The power plant has a beautiful visitor’s centre that hosts an interactive and informative geothermal energy exhibition. Experienced tour guides are available to provide further information about the history, technology, and use of geothermal energy in Iceland.

The exhibition displays a collection of rare rocks and minerals owned by Dr. Einar Gunnlaugsson. It also features an interactive presentation explaining the Hellisheiðarvirkjun, 801 Selfoss +354 591 2880 www.geothermalexhibition.is exhibition@on.is

geothermal energy production process, as well as a short film about the origins of geothermal energy. There’s a cosy coffee shop that serves delicious coffee and light snacks. Perfect for your own energy needs!

We look forward to seeing you!

GPS: 64° 2'15.43"N, 21°24'4.75"W Facebook: /jardhitasyning Instagram: /geothermalexhibition Opening hours: Daily 9am-5pm.

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Notable Events in the History of Iceland 16-18 MILLION BC: The Formation of Iceland. Volcanic eruptions form the landmass known as Iceland.

871 AD: The Settlement of Iceland. Ingólfur Arnarson killed a man in Norway and fled to Iceland.

THE 1750S: The Enlightenment and the birth of Reykjavík. Industrialisation and modernisation started when “Sheriff” Skúli Magnússon started wool manufacturing at Aðalstræti 10.

930 AD: Alþingi (the Icelandic Parliament) established. Alþingi is the oldest parliamentary institution in the world that is still extant.

1944 AD: Independence. Iceland declared independence while Denmark was too busy being invaded by Germany to protest.

1000 AD: Conversion to Christianity, discovery of America. Parliament decided everyone would be Christian or at least pretend to be. Leif “the Lucky” Eiriksson got lost and found America, didn’t like it and went home.

20TH CENTURY: The World Wars and modernisation. The turn of the century saw the first motorboat and car. The World Wars and American occupation resulted in the first serious urbanisation and foreign cultural influence.

1262 AD: Iceland submits to Norway. Civil war between powerful clans was finally resolved by forfeiting independence and submitting to Norwegian rule. This eventually led to Iceland winding up under Danish rule.

1955 AD: Nobel Prize. Halldór Laxness was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.

1550 AD: Reformation. A violent conflict between Catholics and Lutherans ended with the beheading of Catholic bishop Jón Arason.

1602: Monopoly (not the fun kind). The king of Denmark decided Icelanders could only trade with particular Danes, resulting in economic stagnation until the monopoly was abolished in 1786.

1980 AD: First female president. The world’s first democratically elected female head of state, Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, took office.

2008 AD: Crash and miraculous recovery.

Iceland’s banking system went spectacularly bankrupt. Since then, things have picked up surprisingly well.

2009 AD: First openly gay prime minister.

The world’s first openly lesbian head of government, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, took office.

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The Spectacular Whale Exhibition

15% DISCOUNT

promo code: WOIMUSEUM

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EXPERIENCE

Open every day 10 am - 5 pm • whalesoficeland.is Contact us: (+354) 571 0077 / info@whalesoficeland.is

Wonders of Iceland TripAdvisor Review – May 2019

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Book tickets at perlan.is

Perlan – Wonders of Iceland is an enchanting interactive journey 116 through Iceland’s nature, on five floors.

perlan.is 566 9000