About

Víðimýri Church is a historic turf church located in Skagafjörður, North Iceland, approximately 15 km west of Varmahlíð along Route 1. The current building was constructed in 1834, making it one of Iceland's oldest surviving turf churches. The church measures approximately 9 by 6 metres and is built with timber framing, stone foundations, and thick turf walls topped with a grass roof. The construction method provides excellent insulation and weather protection while using materials readily available in the Icelandic countryside. Inside, the church retains its original 19th-century interior, including wooden pews, a decorated pulpit, and a carved altarpiece. The walls are whitewashed, and the ceiling is made of painted wooden panels. The church can seat approximately 60 people. Víðimýri is one of only six turf churches still standing in Iceland. Most were replaced with timber or concrete structures in the 20th century, but a handful were preserved as cultural monuments. Víðimýri remains an active parish church and holds occasional services, weddings, and other ceremonies. The site is owned and maintained by the National Museum of Iceland and is open to visitors during summer months. A small donation is requested for entry.

📖 Story

Víðimýri Church has stood on this spot since 1834, built using the same turf and timber methods Icelanders had used for housing for centuries. A church has existed at Víðimýri since medieval times, but the current structure is the last of its kind still holding regular services. Its grass roof grows thick and lush in summer, blending the building seamlessly into the surrounding fields. Inside, the wooden pews, painted decorations and small altar create an atmosphere of simple devotion that connects directly to Iceland's rural past.

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