capital-region · Iceland
Reynivallakirkja
Perched elegantly on a grassy hill, Reynivallakirkja is a charming white wooden church with distinctive dark green trim and a steep grey roof. Built in 1859, this historic landmark stands against a backdrop of rolling hills, offering a serene glimpse into Iceland's spiritual heritage.
About Reynivallakirkja
Perched elegantly on a grassy hill, Reynivallakirkja is a charming white wooden church with distinctive dark green trim and a steep grey roof. Built in 1859, this historic landmark stands against a backdrop of rolling hills, offering a serene glimpse into Iceland's spiritual heritage.
History & Background
Reynivallakirkja in Kjós is part of the Reynivellir parish in the Kjalarnes deanery, boasting an exceptionally long history. Reynivellir is an ancient church site, with its existence documented as early as around 1200 AD in the church register of Bishop Páll Jónsson. During Iceland's Catholic period, a Marian church stood at Reynivellir, signifying its importance as a place of worship for centuries before the Reformation. The current church structure was built in 1859, situated in a location known as Kirkjubrekka (Church Hill), a short distance east of the existing cemetery. Prior to this, earlier iterations of the church had stood further west on the property, likely within the cemetery itself, indicating a shifting but continuous presence on this sacred land. The present church is constructed in the traditional style characteristic of wooden churches from the mid-19th century. Although it has seen some alterations over time, a significant renovation project in the summer of 1999 restored the church's interior to its original colors under the guidance of the Heritage Preservation Committee, preserving its authentic historical appearance.
Did You Know?
- ✔Reynivallakirkja is part of Iceland's rich religious and cultural heritage
- ✔Iceland became Christian in the year 1000 AD by a democratic decision at Alþingi
- ✔Many Icelandic churches date back centuries and feature distinctive architecture
Tours Near Reynivallakirkja
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
Experience the peaceful beauty and rich history of a traditional 19th-century Icelandic wooden church.
Did You Know?
Reynivellir is an ancient church site, mentioned in records as early as 1200 AD, centuries before the current structure was built in 1859.
Hin flakkaða kirkjustaðsetning Reynivalla
Sagnir herma að Reynivallakirkja hafi átt sér sögu um að færast til. Þótt núverandi kirkja hafi verið byggð í Kirkjubrekku, stóðu fyrri útgáfur lengra vestur, hugsanlega jafnvel innan forna kirkjugarðsins sjálfs, sem bendir til langvarandi andlegrar þýðingar sem er bundin landinu.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hidden Gems Nearby
Forni Kirkjugarðurinn
Kannaðu friðsæla, sögulega kirkjugarðinn við hlið kirkjunnar, sem er eldri en núverandi bygging og geymir aldir af staðbundinni sögu.
Hann býður upp á rólega íhugun um fortíð samfélagsins.
Fallegt umhverfi
Gefðu þér tíma til að njóta stórkostlegs náttúrulandsins í kringum kirkjuna, með öldóttum hæðum og rólegri stemningu.
Fullkomið fyrir ljósmyndun og friðsæla flótta frá hversdagsleikanum.
Practical Information
Best Time
Seinn morgunn til síðdegis, sumar
Duration
30-45 mínútur
Access
Malbikaður vegur, auðvelt aðgengi með bíl
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee to visit Reynivallakirkja?▾
No, there is typically no entry fee to visit Reynivallakirkja. It is a functioning church and generally open to the public for respectful visits.
Is parking available at Reynivallakirkja?▾
Yes, there is usually ample parking available near the church, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Is Reynivallakirkja wheelchair accessible?▾
The church is situated on a grassy hill with concrete steps leading up to the entrance, which may pose challenges for wheelchair users. Access inside the church might also be limited.
What are the typical opening hours for Reynivallakirkja?▾
As a rural church, Reynivallakirkja does not always have fixed opening hours. It is generally accessible during daylight hours, especially in summer. For specific access, it's best to check with local information centers or the parish beforehand.
Can I take photos inside Reynivallakirkja?▾
Photography is generally permitted inside the church for personal use, provided it is done respectfully and does not disturb any services or private events. Always be mindful of the sanctity of the place.
