"Iceland" (this is how "Iceland" sounds in translation), located on the island of the same name, is unique in everything. There is a special subarctic maritime climate, where the cold of the Arctic is mitigated by the North Atlantic Current, which bends around the coast of the island state from the south and west. Tundra landscape, flashes of northern lights, dwarf pines, "white nights", birches, willows, an abundance of mosses, lichens make Iceland akin to the Russian north. Only instead of reindeer sheep graze here, whose wool is famous all over the world, in winter there are no such severe frosts, but there are many volcanoes. It was they who turned the Arctic country into an amazingly beautiful land with a mild climate. Iceland is a northern "fairy tale", a stay in which is extremely interesting and exciting. Let's talk about the main attractions of Reykjavik.
An unearthly corner of nature, ranked 25th among the wonders of the world, the Blue Lagoon is a spa resort that will overwhelm first-time visitors. The cosmic landscapes that appear before your eyes make you forget that you are on Earth, and not among the Martian fields. The geothermal station, surrounded by swirling steam, enhances the impression of an extraterrestrial reality.
The grandiose heaps of boulders - traces of an old lava eruption, covered with velvet centuries-old islets of green mosses, and between them - a sea lagoon with water of incredible milky blue color - an amazing picture! To the lagoon, to the buildings of the spa center from the parking lot, there is a tiled pathway laid on the territory freed from stones.
There are also volcanic gravel walking paths around the spa. The surrounding background continues to amaze: green moss alternates with snow-white bloom on black stone statues, creating fantastic color patterns. The main treasure of the Blue Lagoon is boiling geothermal water gushing from a 2-kilometer depth and containing silicon dioxide that precipitates and forms a layer of medicinal "white" clay, minerals and algae at the bottom. The spa resort has been awarded the Blue Flag for environmental friendliness and cleanliness.
On Videy Island (400 m from the mainland of Rejavik) there is a symbolic Imagine Peace Tower - a kind of monument to the famous singer and musician John Lennon. In this original way, his widow Yoko Ono immortalized his memory. The base of the tower, named with the words from Lennon's song “Imagine”, is a white stone cylinder (well) 10 m high, inside of which are mounted 15 searchlights that turn on at night.
The light, amplified by mirror prisms, rushes up 4 km, forming an enchanting pillar-tower, symbolizing the immortality of Lennon's soul and his struggle for peace. Everyone sees the glowing tower every year from 07.10 (John's birthday) to 08.12 (the day of death).
The mountain, named with a touching maiden name, is, in fact, an extinct volcano that erupted more than 2 million years ago, located 10 km from the Icelandic capital. The city offers a stunningly beautiful panorama of a snow-white peak, towering over the streets and quarters like a guard. Residents love Esya very much and literally worship her as a guardian angel. Dozens of marked trails on the slopes of the former volcano lead up, from where you can admire the enchanting views of the capital, the oceanic expanses and intricate zigzags of the coastline.
An ancient mansion of the early 19th century, once owned by the French consul, then the Icelandic poet Einar Benethichtsson lived in it, and in the 20th century the house became the property of the state. It hosted guests from different countries. The walls of the house are remembered by many public figures, politicians and people of art, including W. Churchill and Marlene Dietrich. It became known to the whole world after the "Icelandic Summit" of 1986, in which a significant meeting of the presidents of the two powers - Gorbachev and Reagan took place, who signed an important agreement at the Hovdi House to end the Cold War. There are still legends about the Spirit of the White Lady living in this building, which makes it popular.
At the very coast of the harbor, there is an extraordinary building - a synthesis of avant-garde architecture, modern science and art - the brainchild of two Icelandic creators and innovators, the architect Larsen and the artist Eliasson. This is the first Concert Hall in Iceland, which has already become the venue for many international competitions and forums.
The main building structures of the building are panels of glass in blue and yellow shades and outwardly resemble a honeycomb framed by a steel frame. Daylight, refracting in them, creates the effect of a giant diamond sparkling with facets. But an even more colorful picture emerges at night, when the walls of "Harp" are illuminated by thousands of LEDs. The building literally soars in the air, spreading a diamond glow over the city and the harbor - a fantastic sight.
The name “Harpa” in Icelandic meaning “Harp” reflects the creative idea of the authors of the project: the interior space of 5 asymmetric planes of 5 floors, illuminated from the outside, seems to be pierced by the air strings of the harp. The names and interiors of 4 concert halls embody the nature of Iceland: Eldborg - the crater of an extinct volcano; Sylvurberg is a type of Icelandic spar; Nordurljous - Northern Lights; Caltaloun is a cold lagoon.
"Kharpa" is also a symbol of the state's firmness, the government's loyalty to its people, which, despite the economic crisis, helped to implement the project. The European Union awarded this architectural masterpiece of our time with the highest award - the Mi Swan der Rohe Prize.
The European direction of transforming former industrial enterprises into cultural centers is reflected in Reykjavik. By the decision of the enthusiastic mayor of Oddsson, the building of the old boiler house (5 floors) was turned into a modern cultural center, redeveloping and adding new structures. A transparent glass dome was installed over the historic building, and the space was divided inside with concrete ceilings, creating spacious rooms for cultural institutions.
Now it houses the Center for Contemporary Art, a wax museum, art galleries, and souvenir shops. An amazing panorama of the city opens from the observation deck under a glass dome; a fashionable restaurant on a revolving platform (the most expensive institution in the capital) is also open here. In 2 hours, the platform makes a full circle of rotation - for this you can enjoy not only the taste of exquisite dishes, but at the same time admire the spectacle of city landscapes.
Landakotskirkja
The city cannot boast of the number of temples, but their lack is more than compensated for by the magnificent catholic neo-Gothic cathedral of Landakotskirkja, towering on the green hill of Landakot. Its high tower is visible from afar, coming closer, one cannot but admire the extraordinary grace and harmony of the Gothic lines. It seems that a Catholic church was carved from a single piece of wood or stone by a skilled carver.
Only up close do you understand that the church was built of concrete, because it was built in the 20th century (consecrated in 1929). But the features of the Middle Ages are so subtly embodied in its appearance that it is difficult to believe that this is the work of modern authors. They are honored and praised for this! They immortalized the memory of 2 French Catholics, who in the 19th century. the first Catholic church in Lutheran Iceland was built on this site - a wonderful monument of neo-Gothic architecture.
Videy Island
A small piece of land, separated from the capital by a narrow strait, is a former volcano hidden under water. Only part of its summit remained on the surface, forming Videy Island, covered with gentle hills. It is here that the most ancient buildings of Iceland (10-12 centuries) are located: the monastery of St. Augustine (1225), Videyarkirya temple (1774), Magnusson's house (1755). Now the island is inhabited by numerous birds, meadow flowers and grasses grow.
It has its own attractions: the ruins of Fort Wirkind, a monument to 15 dead Canadian sailors of the destroyer Skin (1944), the famous J. Lennon Memorial Tower “Imagine the World”. The monument "Vekhi" is impressive here - 18 basalt columns, a stone pyramid on the top of the Danadis hill - the memory of the dead Danes. The memorial symbol of the Catholic monks is the statue of the Virgin Mary. The Videjärstof House has a restaurant where you can enjoy freshly caught oysters.
Monument Sun Voyager
Next to the Khovdi House is an amazing avant-garde sculpture created by the artist Arnason, who did not live to see its installation in 1990. With its abstract forms, the steel sculpture resembles the skeleton of an ancient ship - a symbol of new sea voyages and discoveries. An impressive spectacle is presented by the "Sun Traveler" against the backdrop of sunset rays. Such an extraordinary monument of steel is dedicated to the legendary ancient Vikings, fearless sailors, conquerors of the sea, pushing the horizons of the world for future generations.
Hallgrimskilja
A space rocket - such an impression is produced by a Lutheran church when viewed from the facade, so much is the similarity of expressionist architecture with the forms of an aircraft. The cone-shaped skyscraper with "wings" on the sides from a distance, indeed, resembles a rocket directed into space. And only after walking around the building, you are convinced that this is a cathedral.
It was under construction for 38 years (1945-1986) and after consecration it became an iconic landmark of the city. The surrealist avant-garde project of the neo-Gothic style was developed by the architect Samuelson (1937). Now the church has a giant mechanical 15-meter organ with a magnificent sound, which is enjoyed by numerous parishioners. The church is named in honor of the Icelandic poet and confessor Hallgrimur Pietursson, who is very revered and respected by the Icelanders.
Town hall
Tourists who have seen many old buildings of the City Hall in Western Europe will see modern concrete and glass buildings of a very attractive appearance. The Town Hall of the Icelandic capital is located on the shores of the very picturesque Lake Tjörnin and is not only a place of concentration of the administrative bodies of Reykjavik, but also a cultural and information center. Various exhibitions, performances, contests and festivals are held here on a regular basis. The map of Iceland, placed on a 3D model, allows you to see the whole country in a three-dimensional image, so there are always tourists who want to see interesting places for future visits.
National Museum of Iceland
A trip to Iceland would not be complete without being imbued with its distinctive and legendary history. For this purpose, you should definitely visit the main attraction. More than 2,000 exhibits reflect the peculiarities of the life and culture of the people for all twelve centuries of the state's existence.
Viking weapons, life-size fishing schooners, paintings, clothing and everyday items are just a few of the curiosities that open up to the visitor. Of particular value are the thousand-year-old bronze statuette of Thor and the first Bible printed in Icelandic. The mysterious atmosphere of the halls is given by subdued lighting, imitating lighted torches, torches and bonfires.
The museum has been known since 1863. But, despite the cultural significance, the presented antiques initially could not find a permanent home. The wanderings from attic to attic ended only in 1950, when the institution finally found its final location. Today's visitors have the opportunity to see the updated collection of artifacts in a state-of-the-art facility. Also on the territory of the museum there is a library, a cafe and an antique museum.
Folklore Museum Arbaeyarsafn
The largest Icelandic open-air museum includes thirty buildings of various designs and themes. Each house reflects the traditions of life of a certain class - peasants, artisans and wealthy islanders. It is noteworthy that almost all buildings have survived to this day, and only a few rooms have been rebuilt from the city archives. The exposition includes a wooden church, a smithy, a granary and even a jewelry workshop.
The idea of creating a cultural center originated in the last century. Local residents began to notice that their so beloved "old Reykjavik" is gradually becoming a thing of the past, giving way to new buildings and the realities of modern life. To preserve the culture in its original form, the aborigines agreed to jointly collect artifacts, old documents and other items of historical value.
He began official work in 1957. And since 2006, it has been presenting to the attention of visitors a renewed exposition under the symbolic name "Reyakjavik 871 ± 2", which tells about the life of the capital throughout its existence up to the present day. To recreate the color, all museum workers are dressed in national clothes. If you wish, you can ride in a carriage, and then visit a local cafe, which offers guests dishes in the best traditions of Iceland.
Monument to EVE Online Players
Gamers will certainly be interested in seeing the monument dedicated to the cult computer game. The eminent Icelandic sculptor S. Gudmundsson and the directors of CCP Games A. Jon Asgeirsson and B. Eiriksson worked on the object called “Worlds within the World”. Externally, it looks like several geometric five-meter columns with the names of the best players - 2014 engraved on the surface.
The construction of the art object marked the beginning of the annual EVE Fanfest, which brings together fans of games around the world. 05/06/2039 - the date of the opening of the "time capsule" is endowed with a special meaning for fans. The developers of the game put a PC in it with a message that fans of "Eve Online" will be able to read after several decades.
Whale museum
Iceland was once one of the few whaling countries. Today hunting for these mammals is prohibited, but the philistine and scientific interest in underwater inhabitants does not subside. In order to popularize the knowledge accumulated over the centuries, the administration presented a specialized museum to the city in 2014. At the moment, it is the youngest and largest center that tells about life under water.
The halls of the institution with special bluish lighting create the feeling of an underwater walk. Twenty-three lifelike lifelike whale models allow you to see these large fauna in detail and learn a lot about their way of life. It is noteworthy that many of them even have scars on their bodies - typical injuries for underwater giants.
You can end your exciting excursion at the café located right in the exhibition hall.The cafeteria is so large that even birthdays and weddings can be held here. And for especially curious visitors, there is a rare opportunity to go directly from the museum to the sea to see firsthand the large sea inhabitants in their immediate habitat.
Vikin Maritime Museum
The institution was named after the bay in which it is located. The exposition, which includes several rooms, tells in full and in detail about the fishing industry and the development of Iceland's maritime transport, from old rowboats to modern motorboats and boats. The exhibition includes old documents, items of clothing, and seamen's household items.
Younger visitors can try on the gallant sailors by dressing up in nautical uniforms inside one of the moored ships. Guests of the institution will also be pleased with the funny souvenirs sold in the local shop. But the real culmination will be a trip on the legendary rescue boat “Odin”, which celebrated its sixtieth birthday last year.
Free church
The church is located in a picturesque location on the shores of Lake Tjörnin. She is part of the Icelandic community and outwardly corresponds to other Lutheran churches. Built in 1901, it is an example of the neo-Gothic style in architecture. Interior and exterior decoration cannot boast of wealth and luxury. But the lack of strict rules and good acoustics make this place the center of the city's musical life.
It is worth coming here to see traditional organ and traditional Icelandic music. Periodically, performances of local artists, as well as world stars are held here. The ecclesiastical institution received its unusual name due to its refusal to follow the traditions of the Danish church. It also played a significant role in the struggle for independence.
Phallological Museum
One of the most controversial cultural points on the city map appeared in 1997. A bovine phallus lash, once donated to the founder of the museum, served as the idea for a collection of unusual research on the animals of Iceland. Today, the exposition includes 204 objects, including samples of the genitals of animals from small to large.
Perhaps the most impressive options are the genitals of a whale and a hamster. The penis, or rather a fragment of it belonging to this marine mammal, is 170 cm long and weighs 70 kg. And the size of the rodent's genitals reaches only a few millimeters.
The eccentric creator of the exhibition approached its design with humor, adding to the number of exhibits the causal organ of the aquatic, elf and invisible man in alcohol. The entourage is also not devoid of originality. The lamps in the museum halls are made from the testicles of various animals.
Icelandic Punk Rock Museum
The museum, valuable for punk culture, began its work in 2016. Contrary to stereotypes, the place for the exposition was the premises of a former public toilet. The preserved cubicles, sinks and other attributes of urban latrines speak of the "dark past" of the space. It is difficult to call it an object “for everyone and everyone”, and the entire exposition can be viewed in half an hour or an hour.
But connoisseurs of punk culture should definitely look here. After all, it was Iceland that gave birth to such stars as Bjork, The Sugarcubes and Sigur Ros, and most of the photographic material is associated with these names. No less remarkable is the fact that the opening of the establishment was attended by the lead singer of the Sex Pistols, the most famous musical group with Icelandic roots.
Botanical Garden
They say that once the country was strewn with birch groves and herbs. But that changed with the arrival of the Vikings, who needed wood to make household utensils, tools and boats. Yes, and volcanic lava contributed to the fact that the modern island is practically devoid of forest. The botanical garden, located in the center, was supposed to solve this problem and give the city a green area for walking and exploring the flora.
Founded in 1961, the natural park has about 5000 species and subspecies of plants, collected in eight expositions. You can learn about the residents of the garden from the barcodes. But if you are lucky enough to be here on any summer Friday, 12:40 pm, you can become a member of the free excursion. A walk through the territory of 2.5 hectares invites you to visit a cozy cafe. Place "Floral Garden Bistro" - a favorite place for the townspeople, where you can have a good time and admire the views.
National Gallery of Iceland
This institution began its work back in 1884, in Copenhagen. At that time, the collection included works by artists from Denmark. Later, works of famous sculptors and graphic artists from Norway and Sweden were added to the exposition. The gallery received its independent status only in 1951, when it opened its doors to the inhabitants of Iceland.
Despite the colossal volume (and this is about ten thousand works), the exposition continues to grow to this day. Today, it includes not only works of classics, but also contemporary art workers. On the basis of this institution, seminars, conferences and training sessions for art students are held. Like other iconic objects, the gallery invites guests to visit its own art cafe and shop, where you can buy not only souvenirs, but also reproductions of paintings.
Saga Museum
Residents love to arrange exhibitions in unusual places. And this one is no exception. The exposition is equipped in one of the water storage tanks. But despite its small size, the secluded museum allows you to make a mini-journey into the Viking Age. Many compare the institution to Madame Tussaud's wax museum. Indeed, the exhibits represent realistic characters from the times of migrations, conquests and heroic events.
But in the manufacture of models from the Icelandic exhibition, silicone is used, which makes the sculptures more naturalistic and believable. The attraction is located on the territory of the Perlan restaurant complex. And this means that after cultural leisure, you can go to the cafe of the same name and admire the panoramic views from the nearby observation deck.
Einar Jounsson Museum
An important element of the country's cultural heritage will celebrate its centenary in a few years. The amazing exposition allows guests of the city and the island as a whole to get acquainted with the works of the main Icelandic sculptor, who has received recognition far beyond the borders of the country. The building, designed with the participation of Einar Jounsson himself, has absorbed the best works bequeathed by the Master to the inhabitants of Reykjavik.
These are primarily the famous monuments dedicated to the legends of the Vikings and the myths of Icelandic heroes. The exhibition features several dozen works. The peculiarity lies in the fact that the exhibition area is not used in the interior, but a picturesque garden located nearby.
Walking through the park, visitors in a relaxed atmosphere get the opportunity to feel the beauty of the local lands and feel the greatness of the Icelandic epic. The nearby Hallgrimskirkja Church, another treasury of spiritual life, lends a special intimacy to the surroundings.
Northern Lights Center "Aurora"
Located in the old part of the city, near the old port. The study of a small exhibition will take no more than half an hour, but it will tell you a lot of interesting things about this natural phenomenon. The exposition is based on interactive stands with spectacular photographs created by the best Icelandic photographers, as well as informative HD videos that incorporate the results of the latest research.
The exhibition will tell not only about the charged particles that generate a beautiful glow, but also how the ancient Icelanders perceived this phenomenon.According to folklore, the northern lights are born from spirits traveling in heavenly space. After the visit, guests are offered tea and coffee. You can also visit the local souvenir themed shop.
Lake Tiernin
If in Italy “all roads lead to Rome”, then in Reykjavik any trail must lead a traveler exactly here. Loved by Icelanders and tourists from all over the world, the reservoir is located in the heart of Rejavik and is translated from Icelandic as "pond". Stunning scenic landscapes, crystal clear waters and rich fauna make its shores a popular destination for picnics, family activities and social gatherings. The lake also has excellent opportunities in winter.
The perfectly flat ice surface and large area allow the natural object to be used as an ice rink. Here, by the way, sometimes even local competitions are held. Tjernin is not perceived separately from the cultural attractions of Reykjavik. Churches, town halls, the University of Iceland, museums and parks near the water would lose some of their charm if they were not adjacent to the stunningly beautiful lake.
