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Kirkjubæjarklaustur
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Kirkjubæjarklaustur in Southeast Iceland is a historic location whose significance dates back to before the Norse settlement. Tradition holds that Irish monks, known as Papar, resided here prior to the arrival of the Vikings. In 1186, a prominent Benedictine convent was established, which remained active until the Reformation in 1550 and gave the settlement its name. The convent served as a vital religious and cultural center, leaving a lasting impact on the region's identity. A pivotal moment in the town's history was the 1783 eruption of the Laki craters. During this catastrophe, the local pastor Jón Steingrímsson delivered his famous 'Fire Sermon' (Eldmessa), which legend claims stopped the advancing lava flow just before it reached the church. Today, a modern chapel commemorates this event. The area also features unique geological sites like Kirkjugólf ('the Church Floor'), a natural formation of basalt columns that resembles a paved stone floor. Kirkjubæjarklaustur thus uniquely combines monastic heritage, dramatic volcanic history, and fascinating natural phenomena.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Kirkjubaejarstofa · Kirkjugólf
- Nearby: Landmannalaugar (54 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -3 | -3 | -1 | 2 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 4 | 1 | -2 | -4 |
| Rain mm | 263 | 244 | 225 | 185 | 127 | 120 | 146 | 166 | 241 | 242 | 227 | 260 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The ruins of the former Benedictine nunnery are outdoors and freely accessible at any time. An information board on site explains the history, with unrestricted access.
Typical hours
As it is an open ruin, there are no fixed opening hours and the site is best explored during daylight. Visit ideally between spring and autumn.
Photography
Photography is unrestricted; the ruin remains and surrounding landscape offer appealing subjects. Best light occurs early morning or late afternoon.
Time needed
Viewing the ruins and surrounding area takes about 15 to 30 minutes. For a more thorough exploration with photography, allow 45 minutes.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Systrafoss waterfall and Kirkjubæjarklaustur church. Vatnajökull National Park is also not far away.
Getting there
The site is in the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur on Route 1, about 250 km east of Reykjavík. Easily accessed by car; parking is available nearby.
Insider tip
Read the information board carefully to understand the site's history. Nearby there is a café with local specialties - great for a break.
Geography
Facts
- The Benedictine convent was founded at the site in 1186.
- The monastery was officially closed in 1550 during the Reformation.
- The historic 'Fire Sermon' was delivered on July 20, 1783.
- Kirkjugólf consists of approximately 80 square meters of basalt columns.
- The town is located at the edge of the massive Eldhraun lava field.
- A memorial chapel for Pastor Jón Steingrímsson was completed in 1974.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Kirkjubæjarklaustur (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Kirkjubæjarklaustur mean?
The name is composed of the words for church (kirkju), farm (bær), and monastery (klaustur).
What role did the nuns play here?
From 1186 to 1550, a Benedictine nunnery was located here, shaping local history.
What is the 'Church Floor' (Kirkjugólf)?
It is not a real floor, but a natural surface of basalt columns that look like tiles.
What happened during the Laki eruption in 1783?
Pastor Jón Steingrímsson gave a 'Fire Sermon', after which the lava flow stopped just before the town.
Are there hiking trails nearby?
Yes, there are beautiful trails to the Systrafoss waterfall and the Systravatn lake on the hill.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur: where is it located?
Kirkjubæjarklaustur is located in Iceland.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kirkjubaejarstofa, Kirkjugólf.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur: why is it worth visiting?
Kirkjubæjarklaustur in Southeast Iceland is a historic location whose significance dates back to before the Norse settlement.
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