Stykkishólmur Church
Vesturland
Stykkishólmur Church is a modern concrete church located in the town of Stykkishólmur, Vesturland, Iceland. It was inaugurated on May 6, 1990, and designed by architect Jón Haraldsson. The church features a nave and a tower and can seat about 300 people. A notable feature is its altar piece painted by Icelandic artist Kristín Gunnlaugsdóttir, depicting Mary with the infant Jesus. The church is renowned for its excellent acoustics, fostering a lively musical culture with regular concerts and summer recitals organized by the Friends of the Arts Society. In 2012, a new 22-stop Klais organ, crafted by Johannes Klais of Bonn, Germany, was installed, enhancing its musical offerings. Stykkishólmur Church stands prominently in the town and is visible from both sea and land, making it a significant cultural and architectural landmark in the region. Nearby stands the old church built in 1879, which served the community for over a century but is not generally open to the public.
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Tip: The best time to visit Stykkishólmur Church is during the summer months when musical recitals are held regularly by the Friends of the Arts Society. Visitors interested in the old church can arrange visits by contacting the nearby Norska Húsið. Booking tickets in advance for concerts is recommended to secure seating. The church's location makes it accessible by foot within Stykkishólmur, and its visibility from the sea makes it a notable sight for visitors arriving by boat.
Interesting facts
- •Stykkishólmur Church is visible from both sea and land, making it a prominent landmark in the town.
- •The altar piece was painted by Icelandic artist Kristín Gunnlaugsdóttir, depicting Mary with the infant Jesus.
- •The church is known for its excellent acoustics and hosts regular musical events, including summer recitals.
- •A new 22-stop Klais organ was installed in 2012, crafted by Johannes Klais from Bonn, Germany.
History
The old church in Stykkishólmur was built in 1879 and served the local community for over 100 years.
The current Stykkishólmur Church was constructed to replace the old one and was inaugurated on May 6, 1990.
Designed by Jón Haraldsson, the new church introduced modern architectural elements while maintaining traditional ecclesiastical functions.
In 2012, the church enhanced its musical capabilities with the installation of a new Klais organ, marking a significant milestone in its cultural development.
Place Guide
Main Nave and Tower1990
The central area of the church designed to seat 300 visitors, featuring modern concrete architecture and a tower that contributes to the church's visibility in the town.
Altar Piece1990
A painting by Kristín Gunnlaugsdóttir depicting Mary with the infant Jesus, serving as the focal artwork behind the altar.
Klais Organ2012
A 22-stop pipe organ installed in 2012, built by Johannes Klais of Bonn, Germany, enhancing the church's musical performances.
Contact
Phone: 438 1560
