The Hallgrímskirkja has beautiful views of the city, Reykjavik. This is the tallest church that is visible from anywhere in the capital. It is situated in the core of Reykjavik. The Hallgrimskirkja towers over the colorful capital.
Inspirational Design of Hallgrimskirkja
Hallgrimskirkja is a memorial construction that was designed by GuðjónSamúelsson, an architect. He designed this church to honor the poet and the saint HallgrímurPétursson. He was popular for his work called Hymns of the Passion. He was amazed by the cooled lava shapes and created a design that is motivated by basalt rocks. His first blueprint of the design was questioned by many, but today it is appreciated a lot. It is currently the landmark symbol of the city. It is a must-see for any visitor to Iceland.
The Interiors and Exteriors
It was initiated in 1945 and finished in 1986. The façade of Hallgrímskirkja is a nature-inspired design. The church stands 245 feet tall. It has a long central tower with sloping sides. They simulate a massive stalagmite of lava residue. Inspite of having a grand exterior, the internal design is simple. The columns are tall and grey. They flank the elegant aisle that leads to an altar. It appears to curve to arches that are pointed and punctuated by big glass windows.
The basalt-colored wood upholstery present in this church complement the long rows of seats. The interiors are minimal, and they reflect the Lutheran base of the church. They give a variant aesthetic of the Gothic design.
A Pipe Organ
This is the most eye-appealing feature which was added during December in 1992. This towers about 50 feet tall. It is made of 5,275 pipes. The organ weighs 25-tons. It was designed by Johannes Klaishas, a German builder. Christopher Herrick, an international organist, features it. It was displayed in pieces during this concert. LeifurEiríksson’s statue stands outside the church.
How to reach Hallgrimskirkja?
There is an elevator in the Hallgrímskirkja. It runs through the bell tower of the church. It leads to a deck that is for an open-air observation for the visitors. They can view lanes and houses stretched outlining the Norwegian sea waters. There’s a vantage point where the church appears a sentinel who is watching and protecting Reykjavik. Visitors from all over the world can also get into the church using stained glass equipped doors before strolling towards the church altar. For an iconic exterior view, an evening visit to the church is the right time. You will see the church illuminated with lights and the statue standing outside welcoming you.
Best time to visit Hallgrímskirkja
The church is open to visitors with varying timings at different seasons.
The church is open for visitors:
- October to April- 9am-5pm
- May to September-9am-9pm
The tower is closed for service from 10.30am-12.15pm on Sundays.
Entry fee
- Adults- 8 dollars
- Children-1 dollar
Winter Lights Festival
This festival is held in February. You can see Hallgrímskirkja covered by a vibrant light set up. This church is amongst the 6 constructions that transform into vibrant artwork during festivity times.
Nearby
You will get to see more amazing sights from a lesser crowded Church of Kópavogar, located on Borgarholt Hill. This is one of the well-known elf colonies for its population in Iceland. It was built in 1963. The construction features stained glass featured windows made by GerðurHelgadóttirand, an artist. This church is at a brief distance from a well-known museum for contemporary and modern art, Gerðarsafn.
Conclusion
Hallgrímskirkja is the tallest church in Reykjavik. This church is known for its city views. You will be able to view this church from anywhere in the city. The church is inspired by a design of the shape of lava stones.
