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Hallgrímskirkja

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Hallgrímskirkja (Iceland)

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Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran parish church in Reykjavík and stands at 74.5 meters, making it one of the tallest structures in Iceland. Designed by the state architect Guðjón Samúelsson in 1937, its distinctive architecture was inspired by the basalt lava flows found in the Icelandic landscape. Construction began in 1945 and took 41 years to complete, with the building being consecrated in 1986. The interior features a massive pipe organ by Johannes Klais of Bonn, which consists of 5,275 pipes and weighs approximately 25 tons. Situated on the Skólavörðuholt hill, the church serves as a major landmark visible from almost every part of the city. A statue of Leif Erikson, a gift from the United States to commemorate the Althing Millennium in 1930, stands prominently in front of the entrance.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C00136911118420
Rain mm169152154119938399121181147149172

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Hallgrímskirkja can be visited during opening hours. Churches are typically open daily, often with a lunch break.
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Typical hours
The church has usual visiting hours which may vary by season. Services are mainly on Sundays, when entry is free.
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Photography
The distinctive tower spire is a landmark, best photographed from the square in front. Inside, an impressive organ and stained glass await.
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Time needed
Allow about 30 minutes for the interior visit. The tower ascent by elevator takes extra time and features a great view.
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Combine with
The church is in central Reykjavik and combines well with a walk to Harpa or Tjörnin lake. Many museums are also within walking distance.
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Getting there
The address is Skólavörðustígur, centrally located and reachable by bus or on foot. Parking in the city center is paid and limited.
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Insider tip
The tower is often the first to get crowded, so come early for undisturbed photos. A small donation for church upkeep is appreciated.

Geography

Coordinates
64.14170, -21.92660

Facts

  • The church is named after the Icelandic poet Hallgrímur Pétursson.
  • The tower stands 74.5 meters tall and has an observation deck.
  • Construction lasted 41 years, from 1945 until consecration in 1986.
  • The pipe organ was completed in 1992 and contains 5,275 pipes.
  • The design mimics the hexagonal basalt columns of Icelandic nature.
  • The statue of Leif Erikson predates the church, erected in 1930.

Explore nearby

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ViðeyjarkirkjaViðeyjarkirkja4 km · NEExplore →
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Sights in the town Hallgrímskirkja (10)

Hallgrímskirkja

Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran church in Reykjavík, Iceland.

🕒 Mo-Sa 11:00-15:00; Su 10:00-15:00♿

Einar Jónsson Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Reykjavík dedicated to the works of Icelandic sculptor Einar Jónsson.

🕒 Tu-Su 10:00-17:00

Listasafn ASÍ🏛 museum

Art collection of the Icelandic trade union confederation in Reykjavík.

Art Ceramic Studio Gallery

Ceramic art gallery in Reykjavík with rotating exhibitions.

Kaolin Keramik Gallery

Gallery in Reykjavík specializing in ceramic works.

Art Gallery 101

Contemporary art gallery in Reykjavík.

Safn Ásgríms Jónssonar🏛 museum

Museum in Reykjavík dedicated to Icelandic painter Ásgrímur Jónsson.

Austurbær

Theatre and cultural centre in the Austurbær district of Reykjavík.

Junior Chamber Island

Cultural centre of Junior Chamber Iceland in Reykjavík.

Rainbow street

Street painted in rainbow colours in Reykjavík.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Hallgrímskirkja?
The church is 74.5 meters tall, making it one of the tallest buildings in Iceland.
Can you go up to the tower?
Yes, there is an elevator that takes visitors to the observation deck for a view over Reykjavík.
Does it cost anything to enter the church?
Entrance to the church is free, but there is a fee to go up the tower.
When is the church open for visitors?
Usually daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except during services or concerts.
Who is the statue in front of the church?
It is Leif Erikson, the Viking explorer who was the first European to reach America.
Hallgrímskirkja: where is it located?
Hallgrímskirkja is located in Iceland.
Hallgrímskirkja: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hallgrímskirkja, Einar Jónsson Museum, Listasafn ASÍ.
Hallgrímskirkja: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Hallgrímskirkja: why is it worth visiting?
Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran parish church in Reykjavík and stands at 74.5 meters, making it one of the tallest structures in Iceland.
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