capital-region · Iceland
Ballenas de Islandia: la exposición de ballenas más grande de Europa
About Ballenas de Islandia: la exposición de ballenas más grande de Europa
Ballenas de Islandia en el Puerto Viejo de Reikiavik es la exposición de ballenas más grande de Europa, con 23 modelos de ballenas de tamaño natural suspendidas del techo en una espectacular exhibición. Los visitantes pueden caminar debajo de ballenas jorobadas, cachalotes, ballenas azules y orcas a escala real, comprendiendo a estos gigantes por primera vez. La exposición explora la biología, el comportamiento y la relación entre Islandia y las ballenas.
History & Background
Las ballenas han sido fundamentales para la vida islandesa durante más de 1.000 años: los varamientos de ballenas eran acontecimientos celebrados que proporcionaban a las comunidades alimentos y materias primas durante meses. La caza comercial de ballenas en el siglo XX agotó gravemente las poblaciones. Islandia se unió a la moratoria internacional en 1989, pero reanudó la caza comercial de ballenas en 2006. Hoy en día, Islandia es también uno de los principales destinos de observación de ballenas del mundo, lo que crea una relación compleja con estos animales.
Did You Know?
- 23 life-size whale models, largest is 25m blue whale
- Opened 2014 in converted Old Harbour warehouse
- Located 5 minutes walk from Harpa concert hall
- Europe's largest whale exhibition
- Open daily year-round
Tours Near Ballenas de Islandia: la exposición de ballenas más grande de Europa
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
Whales of Iceland at the Old Harbour in Reykjavík is Europe's largest whale exhibition, with 23 life-size model whales suspended from the ceiling in a dramatic display.
Did You Know?
The blue whale is not just the largest animal alive today — it is the largest animal that has ever lived on Earth. Its heart alone weighs about 180kg and is the size of a small car.
Giants of the Deep at Your Feet
For 1,000 years Icelanders have had an ambiguous relationship with whales — sometimes hunting them, sometimes revering them. This museum captures both sides of that story.
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hidden Gems Nearby
The Blue Whale Scale Moment
Stand directly beneath the 25-metre blue whale and look up. Your brain genuinely struggles to process the scale. It's one of the most humbling experiences in Reykjavík.
The Whale Song Room
A dedicated dark room plays the eerie, beautiful songs of humpback whales through surround speakers. Give it 5 minutes and you'll understand why these recordings moved the world in the 1970s.
Practical Information
Best Time
Opening time (10:00) to avoid school groups
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Access
Fiskislóð 23-25, Old Harbour, Reykjavík
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it suitable for children?
Very much so — children are usually awestruck by the scale. There are also interactive elements designed for younger visitors.
How far is it from Harpa concert hall?
About 5 minutes on foot along the harbour front.
