Hallgrímskirkja
Höfuðborgarsvæði
Hallgrímskirkja is a prominent Lutheran parish church located on Skólavörðuholt hill in Reykjavík, Iceland. Standing at 74.5 meters tall, it is the tallest church and second tallest building in Iceland. Designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson, its architecture is inspired by Iceland's natural basalt formations, notably resembling organ pipes, and evokes the country's dramatic volcanic landscape. The church's construction spanned over four decades, from 1945 to 1986, with its tower completed earlier to serve as a city landmark. The building features a unique combination of expressionist style with a towering spire, curved side wings housing service facilities, a traditional nave, and a sanctuary shaped like a Viking helmet. Inside, visitors find significant artworks including a statue of Jesus by Einar Jónsson and two large pipe organs, the latest built by Johannes Klais. The church also functions as an observation tower, offering panoramic views of Reykjavík and the surrounding mountains. The statue of Leif Erikson stands prominently in front, commemorating Iceland's medieval parliament's millennial anniversary. Hallgrímskirkja is not only a place of worship but also a national symbol reflecting Icelandic identity and heritage.
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Astuce: Visitors should consider ascending the observation tower for spectacular views of Reykjavík and nearby mountains. The church is open daily, with bells ringing regularly outside service hours. Purchasing tickets for the tower in advance can help avoid queues. The site offers opportunities to light candles in memory of loved ones. Visiting during weekdays may provide a quieter experience.
Faits intéressants
- •Hallgrímskirkja is the tallest church in Iceland and the second tallest building in the country at 74.5 meters.
- •The church's design was inspired by Iceland's basalt lava flows, particularly the organ pipe formations.
- •It took 41 years to complete, from 1945 to 1986, with the tower finished earlier as a landmark.
- •The statue of Leif Erikson in front of the church was a gift from the United States in 1930, predating the church's construction.
- •The church's carillon has 29 bells, with the largest named after Hallgrímur, his wife, and daughter.
Histoire
The construction of Hallgrímskirkja began in 1945 following a 1937 commission to architect Guðjón Samúelsson, inspired by Iceland's natural geological features and expressionist architecture.
The crypt was consecrated in 1948, the tower and side wings were completed in 1974, and the entire church was finished in 1986.
Initially criticized for its blend of styles, the church was designed to have a tall spire to surpass the Catholic Landakotskirkja.
Over the years, it has become a key symbol of Icelandic national identity and religious heritage.
Guide du lieu
Observation Tower
The tower offers panoramic views of Reykjavík and the surrounding mountains, accessible by a lift. It is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
Main Nave and Sanctuary1986
The nave features traditional church architecture, while the sanctuary has a cylindrical shape reminiscent of Viking helmets, reflecting Icelandic cultural heritage.
Statue of Jesus by Einar Jónsson1948
A statue depicting Jesus receiving the Holy Spirit after baptism, donated by the Icelandic sculptor Einar Jónsson in 1948, located near the entrance to the nave.
Carillon of Bells
The church houses a carillon of 29 bells in its tower, which play melodies every 15 minutes during the day. The largest bells are named after Hallgrímur and his family.
Pipe Organs1992
Hallgrímskirkja contains two large pipe organs, including a major instrument built by Johannes Klais in 1992, featuring over 5,000 pipes and electronic action.
Contact
Téléphone: 510 1000