Búðakirkja

History & Background

The history of Búðakirkja is a testament to the enduring faith and perseverance of the local community. The first iteration of the church at Búðir came into being around 1700, thanks to the efforts of Bent Lauritzson, a Swedish-descended man residing in Búðir. He arranged for an ancient half-church from Hraunhöfn to be moved and rebuilt on the site. This early church served as a spiritual center, with records suggesting that the acclaimed, albeit infirm, poet Guðmundur Bergþórsson, who passed away in 1705, may have been among the very first, if not the first, to be laid to rest in its consecrated grounds. However, the church's journey was not without its challenges. In 1816, Búðakirkja was decommissioned, marking a period of uncertainty for the local congregation. The fate of the church remained in limbo until Steinunn Lárusdóttir emerged as a formidable advocate for its revival. Her relentless efforts culminated in receiving royal permission for its re-establishment in 1847. Just one year later, in 1848, a new church proudly stood on the original foundation, once again serving as a beacon for the community. The current structure maintains a deep connection to its past. In 1987, Búðakirkja underwent a significant restoration, carefully bringing it back to its original form. This meticulous effort culminated in its re-consecration on September 6, 1987, ensuring that this iconic black church continues to stand as a beautiful and historically rich symbol against the dramatic backdrop of West Iceland.

Practical Information