Reykhólakirkja
A serene white church with a brown spire, nestled against the dramatic Westfjords landscape.
About
About Reykhólakirkja
A serene white church with a brown spire, nestled against the dramatic Westfjords landscape.
Experience Iceland's enduring spiritual heritage in a stunning natural setting, steeped in centuries of history.
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Photo Gallery
Background
History & Background
Churches have graced the Reykhólar site since ancient times, underscoring its long-standing spiritual importance within the community. Reykhólar itself was historically one of Iceland's most prominent estates, distinguished by its vast natural resources, including abundant seafood and the highly prized eiderdown harvested from its numerous islands and islets. The current Reykhólakirkja was consecrated in 1963, continuing this rich legacy. It houses several remarkable artifacts, such as a gilded chalice and a replica of a significant statue of Mary, with the original now preserved in Kristskirkja in Reykjavík. The church also features an altarpiece from 1834, purchased in Denmark by Jón Thoroddsen at his mother's request, and notably, the tombstone of Magnús Arason (c. 1599-1655), a district commissioner, reflecting the historical figures connected to this sacred place.
Reykhólakirkja is a captivating sight in the Reykhólasveit region of the Westfjords, a testament to Iceland's enduring religious and cultural heritage. Situated on what was once one of the country's most significant estates, Reykhólar, the site has hosted churches since ancient times. The current church, consecrated in 1963, features a clean, white facade with a striking brown corrugated roof and a tall, pointed spire, visible against the dark, imposing mountains in the background. Its side is adorned with several arched windows, each framed with a grid pattern, allowing natural light to grace the interior. The Reykhólar estate was renowned for its immense wealth in natural resources, particularly from the sea and the valuable eiderdown gathered from its 300 associated islands and islets. This historical significance is reflected in the church's treasured items, including a gilded chalice and a replica of a statue of Mary, the original of which now resides in Kristskirkja in Reykjavík. Visitors can also admire an altarpiece from 1834, acquired by Jón Thoroddsen, and pay respects at the tombstone of Magnús Arason, a district commissioner from the 17th century. Surrounded by a verdant green field and approached by a simple gravel path, Reykhólakirkja offers a serene escape and a deep dive into local history and spirituality.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
Imagine a journey through the vast, untamed landscapes of the Westfjords, where mountains rise sharply and the sky often paints dramatic scenes. You arrive at Reykhólakirkja, a tranquil white structure with its distinctive brown spire reaching towards the clouds. The path leading to its doors invites contemplation, as if walking back through centuries of faith. Here, amidst the green expanse, you can almost hear the echoes of past generations who gathered on this ancient church site, a place once central to a powerful estate. The current church, though modern, carries the weight of history, housing artifacts that whisper tales of devotion and local prominence. It's a quiet testament to the resilience of spirit in Iceland's wild heart, offering a moment of peace and reflection for every traveler.
💡 Did You Know?
The Reykhólar estate, where the church stands, once encompassed 300 islands and islets, providing abundant seafood and eiderdown.
Culture
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hvalhaushólmur
Hvalhaushólmur is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Grettis saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Miðjanes
Miðjanes is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Gull-Þóris saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Reykhólar
Reykhólar: A place of peace and ancient wisdom.
Tittlingsstaðir
Tittlingsstaðir is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Grettis saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
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Hidden Gems Nearby
✦ Gilded Chalice
Among the church's treasures is a beautifully crafted gilded chalice, a testament to centuries of religious devotion and artistry.
It's a rare and precious artifact reflecting the church's long history and the skill of past craftsmen.
✦ Replica of the Mary Statue
See a replica of a significant statue of Mary; the original, a historical artifact from older churches on the site, is now housed in Kristskirkja in Reykjavík.
It connects the current church to its ancient predecessors and a broader national religious heritage.
✦ Lövener Altarpiece (1834)
An altarpiece by the artist Lövener, dating from 1834, was specifically acquired for the church by Jón Thoroddsen at his mother's request.
This artwork adds a unique historical and artistic dimension to the church's interior.
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Location
📍 Location
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