Historic Icelandic Churches

This collection highlights the religious heritage of the Skaftárhreppur region, featuring structures that range from rare 17th-century turf architecture to early 20th-century concrete designs. The list includes the historic site of the Þykkvabæjarklaustur monastery and small rural parish churches like those at Prestbakki and Kálfafell. These landmarks illustrate the evolution of Icelandic building techniques and the endurance of local communities amidst a landscape shaped by volcanic activity and glacial floods.

Núpsstaðarkirkja

One of Iceland's few remaining turf churches, this small structure dates back to the 17th century. It features traditional grass-covered roofing and stone-lined walls, representing the oldest style of ecclesiastical architecture in the country.

Grafarkirkja

A traditional rural church located in the southern lowlands. The building serves as a local landmark for the surrounding farming community near Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

Þykkvabæjarklausturskirkja í Álftaveri

Situated on the site of a medieval Augustinian monastery founded in 1168, this church represents a location of significant historical and religious importance in the Álftaver region.

Prestbakkakirkja

A historic parsonage site where a church has stood since the 12th century. The current wooden building was constructed in 1859 and is noted for its well-preserved traditional interior.

Langholtskirkja

A small parish church located in the Meðalland district. The building is a typical example of the modest wooden churches that served isolated coastal communities in the 19th century.

Kálfafellskirkja

Constructed in 1927 from concrete, this church replaced an older wooden structure. It sits at the base of the Kálfafellsfjall mountain, showcasing the transition to more durable building materials in the early 20th century.