Chiese storiche a Þórsmörk

Historic Churches

South Iceland's historic churches reflect the region's cultural heritage and architectural evolution. From the iconic red-roofed Víkurkirkja, which serves as a refuge during volcanic activity, to the medieval learning center at Oddi, these sites offer insight into Icelandic Lutheran traditions. Many structures, such as Hrunakirkja and Bræðratungukirkja, are built in the traditional timber style and are situated against dramatic landscapes including the Eyjafjöll mountains and the black sand coast.

Historic Churches — Mappa

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

A

Víkurkirkja

Built in 1934, this iconic red-roofed church overlooks the village of Vík. It is designated as the primary evacuation point in the event of an eruption from the nearby Katla volcano.

Pep Farré / CC-BY-SA

B

Reyniskirkja

A small wooden church dating from 1929, located near the Reynisfjara black sand beach. It serves the local parish of Reynir.

C

Stóradalskirkja

A rural church situated near the base of the Eyjafjöll mountains, serving a historic farming community in the Stóridalur area.

D

Sólheimakapella

A small chapel located near the Sólheimar farm area, used for local services and community gatherings.

E

Ásólfsskálakirkja

Built in 1954, this church sits at the foot of the Eyjafjöll mountains. The site has been a place of worship since early settlement times.

F

Grafarkirkja

A small rural church located in the Skaftárhreppur district, serving the local farming community near the farm Gröf.

G

Oddakirkja

Located at a historic chieftain's seat and medieval center of learning, this church was once home to Sæmundur the Wise. The current structure dates to 1924.

H

Árbæjarkirkja

A traditional Icelandic country church located near the banks of the Ytri-Rangá river, serving the Árbær parish.

I

Bræðratungukirkja

A timber church built in 1911 on a site mentioned in the Icelandic Sagas. It features a classic rectangular design with a small steeple.

J

Hrunakirkja

Constructed in 1877, this wooden church is associated with the local 'Hrunadans' legend. It is one of the older timber churches in the region.