south-iceland · Iceland
Núpsstaður Turf Church
About Núpsstaður Turf Church
Núpsstaður has been a farm and church site since the Viking Age. The current turf church was built in 1656 and later rebuilt in its present form in the 19th century. It is one of the last remaining turf churches in Iceland, a tradition that dates back centuries when timber was scarce and turf was the most practical building material.
History & Background
This site in South Iceland stands as a witness to Iceland's rich and eventful past. Iceland's history begins with the Norse settlement around 870 AD, led by figures like Ingólfur Arnarson, who established the first permanent settlement in Reykjavík. The medieval period saw the creation of the Alþingi parliament in 930 AD, the adoption of Christianity in 1000 AD, and the writing of the great Icelandic sagas. This site connects to these broader historical currents, preserving stories and memories from centuries past. Through periods of Norwegian and Danish rule, natural disasters, and eventual independence in 1944, places like this have served as anchors for Icelandic cultural identity.
Did You Know?
- ✔Built 1656, rebuilt 1800s
- ✔One of Iceland's last remaining turf churches
- ✔Located beneath Lómagnúpur cliff (767 m)
- ✔Traditional turf and timber construction
- ✔National cultural monument
Tours Near Núpsstaður Turf Church
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
See one of Iceland's last turf churches in a breathtakingly dramatic setting beneath towering cliffs.
Did You Know?
Núpsstaður's turf church is over 400 years old (first built 1656) and still holds occasional services.
The Hidden People of the South
According to Icelandic folklore, the hills and rock formations of South Iceland are home to the huldufólk — the hidden people. These beings live in a parallel world, invisible to most humans, but occasionally revealing themselves to those with the gift of sight. Farmers in the region have long respected certain rocks and hills, refusing to disturb them for fear of angering the hidden people. Stories tell of those who built roads through huldufólk dwellings suffering misfortune until the paths were rerouted. Even in modern Iceland, road construction projects have been altered to avoid disturbing known huldufólk sites, reflecting a respect for tradition that persists in this ancient landscape.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hidden Gems Nearby
Saga Connections
Research which Icelandic sagas mention this area before your visit to this attraction.
Reading the relevant saga passages brings the site alive and connects you to events that happened here over 800 years ago.
Landscape Reading
Try to imagine what this place looked like during the settlement era — fewer roads, more birch forests, similar mountains.
The natural landmarks remain largely unchanged, meaning you're seeing much of what the original settlers saw.
Local Heritage Centers
Nearby heritage centers or information boards often have additional context about the site.
Local communities preserve detailed knowledge about their area's history that enhances your understanding.
Practical Information
Best Time
Summer (June-August) for full opening hours
Duration
30 minutes to 1 hour
Access
Most historical sites are accessible by car with nearby parking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee?▾
Many historical sites in Iceland are free to visit. Some may have a small fee or request a donation for upkeep.
Are there information signs in English?▾
Most popular historical sites have information boards in both Icelandic and English.
Can I visit year-round?▾
Most outdoor historical sites are accessible year-round. Indoor exhibitions may have seasonal hours.
