As unspoiled and pristine as the uplands it is located in, the Saurbæjarkirkja stands as a lovely example of a traditional turf church. A picture of divine idyll, this 19th-century church is one of the six remaining churches of its kind in the country. A lush grassland carpets the area around the Saurbæjarkirkja, swiftly rising up its sides, all the way up to its slanted roofs. A simple white cross is perched atop its apex, while a small bell hangs from the front gable. From a distance, the Saurbæjarkirkja appears blissfully united with nature, replete with a moss-dripping demeanor and swirls of fog that settle around its structure.
Dominating Akureyri's coastal skyline, this church of the same name is a picture of startling symmetry and grandeur. Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, the church boasts an exceptional facade, but also holds ornamental masterpieces within its interiors. From a splendid 3200-pipe organ and bas-reliefs on the nave balcony, to a rustic hand-made ship symbolic of a Nordic tradition, various elements adorn the hallowed halls of this hilltop church. The stained-glass window that forms a defining feature of the church's nave is sourced from the Coventry Cathedral in England, where it was part of a beautiful set. An imposing structure during the day, the church makes for a stellar sight at night when it is illuminated by soft amber lights.
Located in Akureyri, Græni Hatturinn (Green Hat) is a popular spot for live contemporary music performances that are showcased here every weekend. While it cannot accommodate more than 200 people, this is a lively and happening place to visit and enjoy not just local musicians but international artists as well. Sip on drinks at this music club, with a variety of beer and wine available at the bar. Shows get booked out very quickly so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance.
Backdropped by snow-capped mountains, the Old Farmhouse Laufus is a well-preserved example of traditional Icelandic architecture. On an expanse of velveteen meadows, a row of gabled houses peek out from under their sod-covered roofs. Of these, a church and a rectory stand out as two of the first few structures to have been built here. According to records, the church features an age-old pulpit dating back to 1658, while parts of the houses are built in timber dating back to the 16th Century. These houses were once the homes of nearly 20 to 30 farmers and their families who participated in activities such as haymaking, fishing and the collection of eierdown. The intact quality of the houses, featuring an array of household items, are telling signs of Icelandic lifestyle during the early twentieth century.
As unspoiled and pristine as the uplands it is located in, the Saurbæjarkirkja stands as a lovely example of a traditional turf church. A picture of divine idyll, this 19th-century church is one of the six remaining churches of its kind in the country. A lush grassland carpets the area around the Saurbæjarkirkja, swiftly rising up its sides, all the way up to its slanted roofs. A simple white cross is perched atop its apex, while a small bell hangs from the front gable. From a distance, the Saurbæjarkirkja appears blissfully united with nature, replete with a moss-dripping demeanor and swirls of fog that settle around its structure.
Safnasafni (The Icelandic Folk Art Museum) is one of the largest art museums in Iceland with over 4100 works as part of its collection. The museum is well designed with an exhibition space, library and research center. There are many paintings, sculptures, drawings, embroideries on display that are very awe-inspiring. You can also find here books, dolls, artifacts and tools that give an insight into the local history and culture. You can take five at their indoor and outdoor restaurant and buy souvenirs and memorabilia at the museum store. So come visit this intriguing museum that looks like a doll-house.
Located in Akureyri, Græni Hatturinn (Green Hat) is a popular spot for live contemporary music performances that are showcased here every weekend. While it cannot accommodate more than 200 people, this is a lively and happening place to visit and enjoy not just local musicians but international artists as well. Sip on drinks at this music club, with a variety of beer and wine available at the bar. Shows get booked out very quickly so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance.
Backdropped by snow-capped mountains, the Old Farmhouse Laufus is a well-preserved example of traditional Icelandic architecture. On an expanse of velveteen meadows, a row of gabled houses peek out from under their sod-covered roofs. Of these, a church and a rectory stand out as two of the first few structures to have been built here. According to records, the church features an age-old pulpit dating back to 1658, while parts of the houses are built in timber dating back to the 16th Century. These houses were once the homes of nearly 20 to 30 farmers and their families who participated in activities such as haymaking, fishing and the collection of eierdown. The intact quality of the houses, featuring an array of household items, are telling signs of Icelandic lifestyle during the early twentieth century.