- Address: Hallgrímstorg 101, Reykjavík, Iceland;
- Phone: +354 510 1000;
- Website: http://www.hallgrimskirkja.is/;
- E-mail: hallgrimskirkja@hallgrimskirkja.is;
- Construction: 1945 - 1986;
- Capacity: 1200 people;
- Architect: Goodyoung Samuelsson;
- Working hours: 9.00 - 17.00;
- Cost of visit: free of charge.
Magic Reykjavik is not only the capital of Iceland , but also one of the most visited cities in the country. Despite the fact that nature is the main attraction of this region, Reykjavik itself has many interesting places, and one of them is the church of Hallgrimur (also called Hadlgrimskirkja).
General information about the temple
Hallrigrim is the main cathedral and one of the most important architectural landmarks of Iceland. The height of this amazing structure is about 75 meters. For a small and modest Reykjavik it is, in fact, a grandiose size.
The famous architect Goodyoung Samuelsson worked on the project of Hallgrimur, but he could not see his "child": the church construction took more than 40 years. As for the name, it is not given to the temple by chance. Hadlgrimyur Pietursson is one of the greatest Icelandic poets, whose creation "Psalms of Passions" is known far beyond the homeland. It was in honor of this legendary writer that the church was named.
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What is interesting about the Church of Hallgrimour?
The appearance of Hadlgrimskirkia is very impressive: the highest cathedral in Reykjavik is visible from anywhere in the city within a few tens of kilometers. Some tourists believe that the main facade embodies the majestic mountains, which Iceland is famous for. According to others, the exterior of the church is more like a rocket at the moment of take-off. Which of these theories is true, is not known for certain, but the fact remains: an unusual architectural decision was made correctly, because for today this place is almost the most popular among travelers.
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In front of the entrance to Hallgrimour there is a monument dedicated to the Scandinavian seafarer, the hero of the ancient legends of the Vikings, Leif Eriksson Happy. The statue was presented in 1939 to the United States in honor of the 1000th anniversary of the founding of the Icelandic Parliament.
As for the interior of the church, it is rather modest: unlike most other cathedrals, here you will not see colorful stained-glass windows and paintings of famous artists. The main decoration of the temple is a luxurious organ - the largest in the country. Its weight is 25 tons, and its height is 15 meters. Many tourists come here only to enjoy the enchanting music of this majestic instrument. In addition, Hallgrimura often hosts concerts of symphonic music and even some social events.
For an additional fee (for adults - 900 ISK, for children from 7 to 14 years - 100 ISK) you can climb the tower of the cathedral, which is also a viewing platform. From here you can enjoy stunning views of the city in all its glory.
How to get there?
Finding the church Hallgrimur is very simple even during a normal walking tour of the city, because the spire of its tower is visible from everywhere. You can get here by public transport: buses number 14 and 15 will take you to the temple. Have a nice trip!