Where is the Leif Erikson statue located?

The statue is prominently located on Skólavörðuholt hill in front of Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík, Iceland.

Is there an entry fee to see the statue?

No, the Leif Erikson statue is a public monument and is completely free to visit and view at any time.

What is the significance of the statue?

The statue commemorates Leif Erikson, the Icelandic explorer believed to be the first European to discover North America around 1000 AD. It was a gift from the USA to Iceland.

Can I take photos of the statue?

Yes, photography is highly encouraged. The statue against the backdrop of Hallgrímskirkja or the city offers excellent photo opportunities.

Is the area around the statue wheelchair accessible?

The statue itself is at the top of a hill with paved access, making it generally accessible. However, the immediate area around the base might have steps, but the main viewing platforms are accessible.

Iceland/Things to Do/Leifur Eiríksson

Leifur Eiríksson

Statue of Norse explorer Leifur Eiríksson in the square outside Hallgrímskirkja.

At a Glance

Visit time

15-30 minutes for viewing and photos.

Best Season

Daytime, especially sunny days for clear views, like the one pictured.

Getting There

Easily accessible by foot from downtown Reykjavík. Paved walkways lead directly to the monument. Parking available nearby.

GPS

64.1428, -21.9276

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About

About Leifur Eiríksson

Statue of Norse explorer Leifur Eiríksson in the square outside Hallgrímskirkja.

Photograph the Leifur Eiríksson bronze statue in front of Hallgrímskirkja.

Tours Near Leifur Eiríksson

Private Walking tour Reykjavik - CityWalk

CityWalk Reykjavik · 2 hours 30 minutes

From 48,000 ISK

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Private Reykjavík Sightseeing Tour 4hrs

Your Transfer ehf · 4 hours

From 75,650 ISK

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Private Reykjavík Sightseeing Tour 6hrs

Your Transfer ehf · 6 hours

From 113,544 ISK

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Private Reykjavik Driving Tour

BT Travel · 2 hours

From 94,900 ISK

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Photos

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Background

History & Background

Alexander Stirling Calder created the Leifur Eiríksson memorial as an American gift commemorating Alþingi's millennium. It was erected in Reykjavík in the early 1930s.

The Leifur Eiríksson statue outside Reykjavík's Hallgrímskirkja was created by American sculptor Alexander Stirling Calder as a US gift marking Alþingi's 1,000th anniversary. It honours the Norse explorer associated with journeys to North America. The tall statue in front of Hallgrímskirkja shows Leifur Eiríksson looking toward the distance, a familiar photograph from Reykjavík's city centre. Its creator was American sculptor Alexander Stirling Calder, and the sculpture was given to Iceland by the United States to honour the millennium of Alþingi in 1930. The statue was installed in the early 1930s, before the present church was completed. Visitors can admire it free from the public square and combine photographs with Hallgrímskirkja and Skólavörðustígur. There is no need to enter the church or buy a tower ticket to view the monument. Visitor information: Public monument accessible from the surrounding square; no admission required.

Folklore

Story & Folklore

The tall statue in front of Hallgrímskirkja shows Leifur Eiríksson looking toward the distance, a familiar photograph from Reykjavík's city centre. Its creator was American sculptor Alexander Stirling Calder, and the sculpture was given to Iceland by the United States to honour the millennium of Alþingi in 1930. The statue was installed in the early 1930s, before the present church was completed. Visitors can admire it free from the public square and combine photographs with Hallgrímskirkja and Skólavörðustígur. There is no need to enter the church or buy a tower ticket to view the monument.

Did You Know?

The statue was a gift from the United States to Iceland in 1930, commemorating the 1,000th anniversary of the Althing (Icelandic parliament).

Culture

Stories & Legends

Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area

icelandic saga

Reykjavík

Reykjavík is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Harðar saga og Hólmverja", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.

ghost stories

Skuggabaldur – The Shadow Creature

Skuggabaldur: A phantom dog guarding forgotten paths.

haunted places

Höfði House – Reykjavík's Haunted Mansion

Höfði House: Reykjavík's historic mansion with a chilling paranormal past.

history

The Settlement of Iceland – Land of Fire and Freedom

Iceland: Land of Fire and Freedom, forged by Vikings and volcanic might.

Explore

Hidden Gems Nearby

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Standing directly behind the statue, this iconic church offers breathtaking panoramic views of Reykjavík from its tower and features unique modern architectural design.

It's an architectural marvel and provides the best city views, complementing the historical significance of the statue.

Sculptural Details

Take a moment to observe the intricate details of Leif's chainmail, the texture of his cape, and the determined expression on his face, all masterfully rendered in bronze.

These details bring the historical figure to life and showcase the sculptor's artistry.

Inscriptions on the Pedestal

Examine the inscriptions on the granite pedestal, which provide historical context about Leif Erikson and the statue's origins as a gift from the United States.

They offer valuable historical information and highlight the diplomatic ties between Iceland and the USA.

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