south iceland
Skálholt Historic Site
About Skálholt Historic Site
Skálholt is located on Route 31, about 50 km from Selfoss. The site includes: - Modern cathedral (built 1963) with beautiful stained glass - Underground medieval tunnel and crypt - Excavated ruins of earlier churches - Museum and exhibitions - Summer concerts and cultural events The cathedral is open daily with free admission. Guided tours are available in summer.
📖 Story
Skálholt was founded as a bishopric in 1056 and remained one of Iceland's two episcopal seats until 1785. It was the country's most important religious and educational centre during the Middle Ages, with a cathedral, school, and scriptorium. The site fell into decline after the bishop's seat moved to Reykjavík, but a new cathedral was built in the 1960s to honour the site's history.
✈️ Why Visit
Visit Iceland's most important medieval religious site with a modern cathedral and ancient ruins.
💡 Did You Know?
Skálholt had one of the first schools in Iceland and was a centre of manuscript production in the Middle Ages.
Key Facts
Episcopal seat from 1056-1785
Medieval learning centre
Modern cathedral built 1963
Underground medieval tunnel
Free admission
Summer concerts and events
📍 GPS Location
Book a Tour to Skálholt Historic Site
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.