north iceland
Víðimýri Turf Church
About Víðimýri Turf Church
Víðimýri Church is located in Skagafjörður valley in North Iceland on Route 75. Key features: - Built 1834 (on older foundation) - Turf/grass roof with timber gables - One of only 6 remaining turf churches in Iceland - Still consecrated and in use (summer services) - White interior with simple furnishings Constructión: - Turf-covered walls and roof - Timber frame and gables - Stone foundation - Traditional Icelandic church design Status: - National historical monument - Protected building - Active church (services in summer) Access: - Route 75 in Skagafjörður - Parking (small area) - Can view exterior anytime - Interior open summer (small entry fee) Combine with: Glaumbær turf farm (10 km), Hólar cathedral, Hofsós pool Visit duration: 20-30 minutes. Nearby: Varmahlíð (10 km), Glaumbær (10 km).
🐉 The Ghost of Mödrudalur
In the remote highlands near Mývatn, stories are told of a ghostly shepherd who appears during fierce snowstorms to guide lost travelers to safety. Known as the Friendly Ghost of the North, this spirit is said to be a farmer who perished in a blizzard centuries ago but chose to remain between worlds to help others avoid his fate. Those who have encountered him describe a figure in old-fashioned clothing who appears suddenly in the worst weather, pointing the way to shelter before vanishing. The legend embodies the Icelandic values of hospitality and looking after fellow travelers in a harsh land.
📖 History of Víðimýri Turf Church
This site in North Iceland reflects Iceland's deep Christian heritage, which began when the Alþingi parliament adopted Christianity as the national religion in the year 1000 AD. The decision was made peacefully through democratic deliberation, a remarkable achievement for the era. Over the following centuries, churches became the centers of Icelandic community life, serving not only as places of worship but as schools, meeting halls, and repositories of knowledge. Iceland's unique turf church tradition adapted European ecclesiastical architecture to the harsh sub-Arctic climate, creating buildings that were both practical and beautiful. Many of Iceland's historical churches have been lovingly maintained through the centuries.
✈️ Why Visit
See one of Iceland's last six turf churches — beautiful 1834 grass-roofed church still used for services, nearly extinct architecture.
💡 Did You Know?
Iceland once had hundreds of turf churches — today only 6 remain, and Víðimýri is one of the best-preserved and most photogenic.
Key Facts
Built 1834
Grass/turf roof
Only 6 turf churches remain
Still active (summer services)
National monument
💎 Hidden Gems
Architecture Details
Look closely at the architectural details of this attraction — each element has cultural significance.
Icelandic churches blend Nordic, European, and uniquely Icelandic design elements that tell their own story.
Cemetery Stories
If there is an adjacent cemetery, the headstones often tell fascinating stories about local families.
Icelandic naming conventions (patronymic system) mean you can trace family connections through the generations.
🕐 Best Time
Summer for reliable opening hours
🚗 Access
Accessible by car, usually free entry or small donation requested.
⏱ Duration
20-40 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit the church outside of service times?▾
Many Icelandic churches are open for visitors during summer months. Some are only accessible during services or by arrangement.
Is there an entrance fee?▾
Most churches are free to enter, though some accept donations for maintenance.
📍 GPS Location
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🌌 See the Northern Lights
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