Hallgrímskirkja — Reykjavík's Landmark Church

Background

History & Background

Hallgrímskirkja is dedicated to Hallgrímur Pétursson, the 17th-century Icelandic poet and clergyman best known for the Passion Hymns. Construction started in 1945 and continued in stages until 1986. The church today serves both as an active parish and as a major cultural and visitor landmark in Reykjavík.

Hallgrímskirkja is one of Reykjavík's defining landmarks and Iceland's largest church. Its stepped concrete façade was designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson and draws on the vertical forms of Icelandic basalt columns and volcanic landscapes. Construction began in 1945 and the church was completed in 1986. The church is named after the 17th-century poet and pastor Hallgrímur Pétursson, author of the Passion Hymns. Hallgrímskirkja remains an active Evangelical-Lutheran parish church and also hosts concerts and cultural events. The church nave is free to enter when open. A paid lift gives access to the tower, where visitors get one of the best panoramic views over central Reykjavík, Faxaflói bay and the mountains surrounding the capital. Opening and tower access can change during services, ceremonies and concerts, so visitors should check the official website before arriving.