Selárdalskirkja

About Selárdalskirkja

Nestled in the remote and stunning Ketildalir valley, on the western side of Arnarfjörður in the Westfjords, Selárdalskirkja stands as a beacon of history and faith. This picturesque white timber church, with its distinctive bright red roof and small steeple, offers a striking contrast against the verdant landscape, the blue waters of the fjord, and the looming dark cliffs. Originally constructed in 1861, the church has been a spiritual center for the Selárdalur settlement, a place once renowned as the 'best living' (prestigious parish) in Iceland. After enduring decades of neglect, the church was carefully dismantled and rebuilt in 1961 for its centennial, ensuring its preservation while retaining its original charm and historical integrity. Inside, visitors can discover a collection of valuable artifacts, testaments to centuries of local devotion and craftsmanship. Outside, a particularly intriguing feature is the Mjaltakonusteinn (Milkmaid's Stone) located directly in front of the church. This stone, marked with three carved depressions, is believed by some to be a pagan sacrificial stone, a remnant from Iceland's pre-Christian era. Local folklore, however, attributes its placement to the legendary strongman Árum-Kári, who supposedly carried it here in his coat lapel from Bogahlíð. Selárdalskirkja is not just a place of worship; it's a window into Iceland's rich cultural and religious heritage, set within one of the country's most dramatic and unspoiled natural landscapes. It serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the communities that have thrived in this isolated corner of the world.