The Old Bookstore in Flateyri
Vestfirðir
The Old Bookstore in Flateyri is a remarkable cultural landmark located in the small village of Flateyri in Iceland's Westfjords. Established in 1914 and continuously operated by the same family for over four generations, it retains its original furnishings and decor from the late 19th century, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Icelandic history and commerce. The bookstore specializes in second-hand books sold by weight, including Icelandic literature, sagas in English and other languages, as well as local products and luxury goods from century-old companies worldwide. Visitors can also explore the merchant apartment of Jón, the founder, and his wife Guðrún, preserved unchanged since 1950, providing an authentic step back in time. The Old Bookstore is not only a place to purchase books but also a living museum reflecting the heritage of Icelandic trade and family tradition in Flateyri. Its location in a village known for its resilience and history, including dramatic events like the 1995 avalanche, adds to its cultural significance.
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Astuce: The best time to visit is during the summer months when the Westfjords are most accessible and weather conditions are favorable. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for guided visits to the merchant apartment. Visitors can enjoy discounts on second-hand books sold by weight. The bookstore is a perfect stop for literature enthusiasts and those interested in Icelandic culture and history.
Faits intéressants
- •The Old Bookstore has been operated by the same family for four generations since 1914.
- •The store's furnishings and decor have remained practically unchanged since it opened in the original 1898 building.
- •Books are sold by weight, including Icelandic sagas available in multiple languages.
- •The merchant apartment inside the bookstore is preserved exactly as it was in 1950, offering a unique historical experience.
- •Flateyri is home to Iceland's oldest original trading house, which the bookstore occupies.
Histoire
Flateyri, located in the Westfjords of Iceland, became an official trading place in 1823 and grew steadily with the development of the local fishing industry.
The Old Bookstore was established in 1914 in a building constructed in 1898 and has remained in the same family for over a century.
The village itself is historically notable for surviving a devastating avalanche in 1995, after which protective barriers were built.
The bookstore's merchant apartment, preserved since 1950, reflects the early 20th-century lifestyle of its founders.
Guide du lieu
Merchant Apartment of Jón and Guðrún1915-1950
This apartment inside the bookstore was home to the founder Jón and his wife Guðrún from 1915 until Jón's death in 1950. Preserved exactly as it was, it offers visitors a rare glimpse into early 20th-century Icelandic domestic life.
Original Bookstore Interior1898
The bookstore's interior, including furnishings and decor, remains as it was when the building was constructed in 1898, providing an authentic historic atmosphere for browsing books and local products.
Contact
Téléphone: 840 0600
