Iceland | Top 10 Churches
Hallgrímskirkja
A true stand-out of Reykjavik, rising 73-metres high, it is mostly likely the first building you will see in the city’s skyline and is inspired by the country's natural landscapes, particularly basalt columns and glaciers.
Thingvallakirkja
While most of the other churches on this list were selected due to their structural or architectural beauty, this church carries with it historical significance. Located in Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and holds historical significance as it stands in the same area where the Alþingi (national parliament) was established in 930 AD, making it one of the oldest parliamentary meeting places in the world.
Víkurkirkja
The first of the two churches along the southern coast I would recommend seeing. Although, you’ll have to travel all the way to Vik to see it. The church is set against a stunning backdrop of black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
Ingjaldshólskirkja
Not a strikingly unique church, even resembling other churches on this list, but it is what surrounds this church that makes it a cannot miss. If you time your visit to this church correctly and are lucky enough, you will be rewarded with a vast field of lupines in the foreground whilst being able to see Snæfellsjökull off in the distance. The purple of the lupines and white of the volcano makes it a perfect contrast against this church’s red roof.
Hofskirkja
The most unique church on the list and one of two turf-roofed churches. Found on the south coast on your way to Jökulsárlón, Hofskirkja is one of the last remaining turf churches in Iceland. The exterior of Hofskirkja is whitewashed, which, combined with the turf, creates a visually striking contrast. The whitewash not only contributes to the aesthetics but also helps protect the turf from the elements.
Húsavíkurkirkja
You’ll be glad you traveled all the way to this small fishing village. Húsavíkurkirkja is a wooden church that features traditional Icelandic architecture. Its design is characterized by a white exterior, red roof, and a simple yet elegant structure.
Seyðisfjarðarkirkja
On the list for it’s unique color and location, this church is located in the East Fjords of Iceland. Seyðisfjörður is situated at the head of a deep fjord surrounded by steep mountains, creating a stunning and picturesque setting. At the end of the towns main road, Seyðisfjarðarkirkja stands out with it’s light-blue exterior against the surrounding mountains.
Grafarkirkja
How can you not include the oldest on the list of Iceland's best churches? Grafarkirkja is widely considered the oldest churches in Iceland, dating back to the 17th century and is constructed using traditional turf techniques.
Budakirkja
Clad in black and white, while not colorful, this church is just a striking as the others on this list. Located near the Búðir hamlet, Búðakirkja is set against the backdrop of the vast lava field and the Snæfellsjökull glacier, which is often visible in the distance. Due to its unique appearance and scenic surroundings, Búðakirkja is a popular spot for photographers and visitors exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Saurbæjarkirkja
Located in the Westfjords, this ancient church is one of few that can be found in this less-visited part of Iceland. It sits among mountains and a rare, yellow-sand beach.
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