National Library of Iceland
The National Library of Iceland (Þjóðarbókhlöðan) at Arngrímsgata 3 in Reykjavík is Iceland's principal library and the custodian of the country's printed and m…
About
About National Library of Iceland
The National Library of Iceland (Þjóðarbókhlöðan) at Arngrímsgata 3 in Reykjavík is Iceland's principal library and the custodian of the country's printed and manuscript heritage. Founded in 1818, it holds over one million items including books, journals, newspapers, maps, manuscripts, photographs, music scores, and digital media. The library is the country's legal deposit library — every publication printed in Iceland must be submitted here. Its special collections include medieval Icelandic manuscripts, rare 16th-century printed books, a comprehensive newspaper archive dating to 1848, and one of the most complete collections of Icelandic music.
Home to irreplaceable medieval manuscripts including illuminated sagas — the written heart of Icelandic civilisation.
Photos
Photo Gallery
Background
History & Background
National Library of Iceland has been a significant site in Iceland's landscape. Throughout the years, this location has played an important role in Icelandic culture and natural history.
National Library of Iceland is a remarkable museum in Iceland. The National Library of Iceland (Þjóðarbókhlöðan) at Arngrímsgata 3 in Reykjavík is Iceland's principal library and the custodian of the country's pri... Iceland has one of the world's highest per-capita reading rates, and the National Library stands at the heart of that culture. The original library was established in Reykjavík in 1818 to serve the newly formed governmental institutions of Iceland. T. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Iceland's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
Iceland has one of the world's highest per-capita reading rates, and the National Library stands at the heart of that culture. The original library was established in Reykjavík in 1818 to serve the newly formed governmental institutions of Iceland. The current building on Arngrímsgata, designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson, was completed in 1994 and is a striking example of modernist architecture using Icelandic basalt stone cladding. The library's manuscript collection includes treasures from the Arnamagnaean Collection — Icelandic vellum manuscripts returned from Denmark in the 1970s.
Local Legend
Legends of null
null has been part of Icelandic folklore for generations. Local tales speak of hidden people (huldufólk) and other supernatural beings who inhabit the area. According to tradition, this place deserves respect and visitors should be mindful of the ancient spirits who call it home.
Experiences
Tours Near National Library of Iceland
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Culture
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Engey
Engey is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Njáls saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Reykjavík
Reykjavík is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Harðar saga og Hólmverja", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Skuggabaldur – The Shadow Creature
Skuggabaldur: A phantom dog guarding forgotten paths.
Höfði House – Reykjavík's Haunted Mansion
Höfði House: Reykjavík's historic mansion with a chilling paranormal past.
Explore
Hidden Gems Nearby
✦ Talk to the Staff
Museum staff at National Library of Iceland are often incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their subject.
They can share stories and insights not found in the exhibits, and may point you to related sites in the area.
✦ Gift Shop Treasures
Icelandic museum shops often carry unique locally-made items and books not available elsewhere.
You'll find authentic Icelandic crafts, design items, and publications that make meaningful souvenirs.
✦ Combine with Nearby Sites
Ask about related attractions in the area to create a themed day trip.
Many museums are located near the historical sites or landscapes they document, creating a richer overall experience.
Help
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
📍 Location
Discover
Explore Nearby
Places from our database within 1.0 km — all data from Sanity
Loading nearby places…
0 places found within 1.0 km
Plan full itinerary →Explore More
