Is parking available at Hrunakirkja?

Yes, there is typically parking available near the church, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.

Is there an entry fee to visit Hrunakirkja?

No, there is generally no entry fee to visit the exterior of Hrunakirkja and its surroundings. You can admire its architecture and the peaceful setting freely.

Can I go inside Hrunakirkja?

Interior access to Hrunakirkja may be limited as it is an active church. It is best to check locally or inquire if you wish to see the inside.

Is Hrunakirkja wheelchair accessible?

The church is situated on a grassy hill, which might pose challenges for wheelchair access to the immediate vicinity of the building itself. However, it is visible from a paved area.

What should I bring when visiting Hrunakirkja?

Comfortable shoes for walking on potentially uneven grassy terrain around the church and graveyard are recommended. A camera is also great for capturing the picturesque setting and the unique architecture.

Iceland/south-iceland

Hrunakirkja

Historic church at Hruni, associated with the folktale Dansinn í Hruna.

At a Glance

Visit time

30-45 minutes

Best season

Daytime, especially during summer months (May-September) for best weather and light.

Access

Paved road access, easily reachable by car from the Golden Circle route.

GPS

64.1384, -20.2580

Plan Trip Navigate

About

About Hrunakirkja

Historic church at Hruni, associated with the folktale Dansinn í Hruna.

Experience a historic Icelandic church, admire its unique architecture, and delve into a fascinating local legend.

Photos

Photo Gallery

Background

History & Background

Hrunakirkja is an integral part of the Hruni parish within the Árnes deanery, a testament to Iceland's long-standing Christian tradition. The church itself was constructed in 1865, utilizing iron-clad timber, a common and durable building material for the era. Designed by the renowned architect Rögnvaldur Ólafsson, it was built to accommodate a congregation of up to 200 people, reflecting the community's size and spiritual needs at the time. Its architectural details are noteworthy: a timber house measuring 14.83 meters in length and 6.00 meters in width, featuring a cross-gabled roof. The most distinctive feature is its square tower rising from the west gable, crowned by a high, pyramidal spire. The entire structure is clad in corrugated iron and stands on a concrete foundation, ensuring its longevity in the Icelandic climate. This blend of traditional materials and a unique spire makes it a recognizable landmark. Beyond its structural history, Hrunakirkja gained national protection on January 1, 1990, under the age provisions of the national heritage laws, cementing its status as a significant cultural and historical site. It stands not only as a place of worship but also as a monument to Icelandic craftsmanship and the enduring spiritual life of its people, deeply woven into the fabric of local folklore.

Hrunakirkja stands at Hruni in Hrunamannahreppur on a church site with a long local history. The church is also closely associated with the folktale Dansinn í Hruna, which tells of a Christmas-night dance ending in supernatural disaster. The tale is folklore rather than documented history and should be presented as such. Visitors should respect the cemetery and any restrictions on church access.

Folklore

Story & Folklore

Under a vast, clear blue sky, Hrunakirkja gleams with its pristine white timber walls and a vibrant red roof, its tall, pyramidal spire reaching towards the heavens, crowned by a simple cross. It looks serene now, nestled on a grassy knoll, surrounded by a scattering of gravestones and green trees. But beneath this tranquil facade lies a tale that has whispered through generations: the 'Dance of Hruni'. Legend has it that one Christmas Eve, the parishioners, perhaps emboldened by festive spirits, danced with such abandon within these very walls that the merriment turned macabre. The revelry grew wilder and wilder until, at the stroke of midnight, the devil himself, Kölski, emerged from the shadows. He is said to have dragged the dancing souls down into the underworld, leaving behind a chilling silence. Today, visitors can almost hear the echoes of that fateful night as they stand before this beautiful, yet haunting, piece of Icelandic history, a testament to faith, community, and the enduring power of folklore.

💡 Did You Know?

Did you know Hrunakirkja, built in 1865, was designed by architect Rögnvaldur Ólafsson and is the setting for the chilling 'Dance of Hruni' legend where the devil himself appeared?

Culture

Stories & Legends

Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area

icelandic saga

Gröf

Gröf: Where a chieftain's tomb guards ancient secrets.

Explore

Hidden Gems Nearby

✦ The Historic Graveyard

Wander through the peaceful graveyard surrounding the church, where simple white headstones stand amongst the trees, offering a quiet moment for reflection on past generations.

It provides a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into the local community's history.

✦ Architectural Details

Take a closer look at the corrugated iron cladding, the distinct cross-gabled roof, and the intricate details of the square tower's spire, showcasing traditional Icelandic craftsmanship.

These elements highlight the unique design by Rögnvaldur Ólafsson and the church's resilience.

Help