Big Church Reykjavik
Hallgrimskirkja Church,the Big Church Reykjavik, is the tallest building in downtown Reykjavik, commanding the skyline of the world’s northernmost capital. This is an incredible landmark in Iceland’s capital city. It stands out among all the sweet, colorful two-story homes and is among the most photogenic locations in the world. As a one-of-a-kind destination, we’ll go over everything that you need to learn about exploring Hallgrimskirkja church and its surroundings.
Big Church Reykjavik – Design
Iceland was a newcomer to having a distinctive national style. Samuelsson set out to fill this gap by developing an Icelandic national architectural style that is influenced by the country’s incredible natural and geographical features, which people will recognize over time. The ubiquitous basalt columns, which are the glorious result of volcanoes and glaciers, are the most famous geological feature in Iceland. This feature was important to Samuelsson in setting the standard for his view of the national style. In several of his designs, the dark grey, often blackish hexagonal columns became a trademark. Hallgrimskirkja is an excellent example.
A highlight of the tour is to climb up on the 73-meter-high tower. In the distance, you will see white-capped mountains and all Reykjavik has to offer. The stunning views of downtown Reykjavik have become an emblematic image of social media from Hallgrimskirkja Tower.
Big Church Reykjavik – The Pipe Organ
It was designed by Johannes Klais of Bonn, Germany, as Iceland’s largest pipe organ. The instrument, which stands 15.24 meters tall and weighs 25 tons, has 72 stops and 5,275 pipes. The tallest pipes reach a height of around ten meters. The church’s construction also makes for excellent acoustics for sound projection, making it an excellent venue for choir performances, drama displays, art exhibits, ceremonial activities, and even public debates. The choir’s success is particularly noteworthy because it is something that Icelanders excel at and are proud of.
Big Church Reykjavik- Frontside Statue
The green statue on top of a stone pedestal is the very first thing you’ll recognize when you arrive at the church. The heroic figure’s name is Leifur Eiriksson, who is well-known. The Eiriksson statue was a present from the United States to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of Althingi, the world’s oldest parliament, which was established in 930 AD. Icelanders, on the other hand, claim that the 50-ton donation was intended to formally acknowledge Leifur Eiriksson as an Icelandic citizen rather than a Norwegian. The debate is still going on.
How to reach there?
Numerous bus routes slow down near the church, and they come from all over the city. You will have to make a transfer if you are going to stay in the Capital Region but outside of downtown Reykjavik. If you remain in downtown Reykjavik, you should have no trouble getting there. The city is walkable and has a lot to offer to those who appreciate walking.
Opening Hours
The opening hours of Hallgrimskirkja are seasonal:
- Over the winter, from October to April, the church is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. At 4:30 p.m., the tower shuts a little sooner.
- The church is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the summer, from May to September. The tower closes at 8:30 p.m., making it a great place to see the cityscape bathed in soft sunset light.
Admission Fee
The church’s entrance is open. It only costs money if you’d like to take the lift to the top of the tower to see the capital, which is strongly recommended. It costs ISK 100, which is approximately one dollar or one euro, for children aged seven to sixteen. The admission fee for adults is ISK 1000. Admission to the tower is available for purchase in the church store.
Conclusion
Big Church Reykjavik is the largest church of Iceland. Do not miss the opportunity to explore the historical side and architecture of this church which will leave you mesmerized and spell bound. The church is amazing and not to be missed.
