capital region
Icelandic Phallological Museum (Reykjavík)
About Icelandic Phallological Museum (Reykjavík)
The Icelandic Phallological Museum is a biological museum dedicated to the collection, preservation, and study of mammalian phallic specimens. The collection includes examples from nearly all Icelandic land and sea mammals, along with educational displays explaining anatomy, reproduction, and folklore connections in Icelandic culture. Founded by Sigurður Hjartarson in 1997, the museum began as a private collection before opening to the public and eventually moving to its current location in central Reykjavík. Over time it has gained international attention as one of the most unusual museums in the world. Despite its humorous reputation, the museum presents its exhibits from a scientific perspective and offers insight into Iceland’s wildlife and natural history in a format unlike any other museum experience in the country.
🐉 The World’s Most Unusual Museum Collection
What began as a private curiosity collection grew into one of Iceland’s most internationally recognised museums. Today the Icelandic Phallological Museum blends humour, science, and natural history into a uniquely Icelandic cultural experience.
📖 History
The Icelandic Phallological Museum was founded in 1997 by historian Sigurður Hjartarson, who had collected biological specimens for many years before opening the exhibition to the public. The museum later moved to central Reykjavík to accommodate its growing collection and increasing international interest. Today the museum contains specimens from almost every Icelandic mammal species and continues to expand its educational displays on biology, folklore, and natural history.
Key Facts
Founded: 1997
Founder: Sigurður Hjartarson
Location: Reykjavík city centre
Collection type: Biological specimens
Species represented: Icelandic land and sea mammals
Unique status: Only museum of its kind worldwide
Indoor attraction: Yes
Family friendly: Recommended for adults and older teens
💎 Hidden Gems
Only museum of its kind in the world
The Icelandic Phallological Museum is the only museum globally dedicated to this specific biological collection theme.
Experience one of Reykjavík’s most unusual and memorable attractions.
Scientific biological collection
Despite its humorous reputation, the museum presents real anatomical research material from Icelandic mammals.
Learn about Icelandic wildlife anatomy in a unique educational setting.
Central Reykjavík location
Located in the city centre near Laugavegur shopping street and other museums.
Easy stop while exploring downtown Reykjavík.
🕐 Best Time
Open year-round and ideal during cold or rainy weather as an indoor attraction.
🚗 Access
Located in central Reykjavík within walking distance of Laugavegur shopping street and Hallgrímskirkja.
⏱ Duration
30–45 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the museum suitable for children?▾
The museum is educational but generally recommended for adults and older teenagers.
Is this a scientific museum?▾
Yes. The collection is based on biological specimens from Icelandic mammals.
Is it located near Reykjavík city centre?▾
Yes. The museum is located in central Reykjavík within walking distance of major attractions.
Book a Tour to Icelandic Phallological Museum (Reykjavík)
Find guided tours, day trips and activities. Compare prices and book instantly with free cancellation.
🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.