East Iceland Heritage Museum
Regional museum in Egilsstaðir presenting East Iceland's cultural history, reindeer heritage and traditional rural life.
About
About East Iceland Heritage Museum
Regional museum in Egilsstaðir presenting East Iceland's cultural history, reindeer heritage and traditional rural life.
The best single introduction to the East Iceland region — its geology, wildlife, folklore and farming history.
Photos
Gallery
Background
History & Background
Minjasafn Austurlands serves as East Iceland's regional heritage museum, collecting, preserving and interpreting material connected with the area's cultural history, traditions and community life.
East Iceland Heritage Museum, or Minjasafn Austurlands, is the regional heritage museum in Egilsstaðir. It preserves and presents the cultural history, traditions and community life of East Iceland. Two permanent exhibitions focus on reindeer in East Iceland and on the self-sufficient traditional farm household, while temporary and smaller thematic exhibitions add changing perspectives on the region's archaeology and history. The museum is a useful cultural stop for understanding the people and livelihoods behind the landscapes of Austurland.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
The museum connects East Iceland's landscapes with the lives of the people who used them. Reindeer history, rural self-sufficiency, household objects and temporary archaeological exhibitions give visitors context for the region beyond its scenery.
Did You Know?
East Iceland has the highest concentration of reindeer in Iceland — about 3,000 animals descended from Norwegian reindeer introduced in the 1770s.
Culture
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Ekkjufell Saga
Ekkjufell is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Droplaugarsona saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Eyvindardalur
Eyvindardalur is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Droplaugarsona saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Finnsstaðir
Finnsstaðir is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Fljótsdæla saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Hnútusel (áður Knútusel)
Hnútusel (áður Knútusel) is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Droplaugarsona saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Explore
Hidden Gems Nearby
Talk to the Staff
Museum staff at East Iceland Heritage Museum are often incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their subject.
They can share stories and insights not found in the exhibits, and may point you to related sites in the area.
Gift Shop Treasures
Icelandic museum shops often carry unique locally-made items and books not available elsewhere.
You'll find authentic Icelandic crafts, design items, and publications that make meaningful souvenirs.
Combine with Nearby Sites
Ask about related attractions in the area to create a themed day trip.
Many museums are located near the historical sites or landscapes they document, creating a richer overall experience.
Help
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
Location
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