Miðdalskirkja

Background

History & Background

Miðdalskirkja, located in the Mosfell parish within the Árnes deanery, boasts a history stretching back to its consecration in 1869. This small, iron-clad timber church, capable of seating 50 people, was a significant undertaking for the local community. The construction was overseen by master builder Guðmundur Þórðarson, with Halldór Bjarnason playing a pivotal role as the primary artisan. The church's design, featuring a tower on its ridge, reflects the architectural styles prevalent in rural Iceland during the late 19th century. The church is home to several notable historical artifacts. Its main altar painting is a lithographed image of Christ, "Komið til mín" (Come to me), set within an elegant oak frame. Even older is the pulpit, crafted in 1837, which likely served an earlier church on this site before being incorporated into the current structure. On the north side of the choir, an ancient altarpiece depicting the Last Supper is displayed, believed to be the work of Ófeig Jónsson from Heiðarbær in Þingvallasveit, who is also credited with creating the pulpit. Beyond its physical structure and artifacts, Miðdalskirkja is linked to notable historical figures, such as Kolbeinn Þorsteinsson (1731-1783), who served as priest in Miðdal from 1765 to 1783 and is known for the "Gilsbakkaþula" poem. Recognizing its profound historical and cultural value, Miðdalskirkja was officially designated a protected site on January 1, 1990, ensuring its preservation for future generations to appreciate.

Miðdalskirkja was consecrated in 1869 and preserves the scale and construction of a small rural Icelandic church of the period. Older furnishings include a pulpit made before the present building. The church was formally protected in 1990. Visitors should respect services, the cemetery and any limits on interior access.