An unusual-looking church, the design of Hallgrimskirkja was inspired by the forms created when lava cools into basalt rock. The church was designed by Gudjon Samuel in 1937 and constructed between 1945 and 1986. The tower, at 73 m (239.5 ft) tall, dominates Reykjavik's skyline. The view from the top looks out over the entire city, plus the rocky, volcanic landscape and the sea beside the capital. Inside the church, listen to the melodies wafting from the enormous, 25-ton pipe organ. A statue of Leifur Ericsson, the first European to reach America, stands directly outside the strange edifice. A visit to Hallgrimskirkja represents just the start of the adventure when you use our Reykjavik online travel route planner to plot your vacation.
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Hallgrimskirkja reviews
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Beautiful church. Great place to find solace, meditate and say a prayer. The view on top was fabulous and a great way to see the city. We thoroughly enjoyed it. more »
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Is it a thing of beauty, or a monstrosity? You decide, though you’ll have to visit to make that decision. Love it or hate it, Hallgrímskirkja is certainly an intriguing structure, unlike any other.... more »
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It is an impressive church situated atop a small hill in Reykjavik. The inside is relatively simple compared to European cathedrals. The views from the tower are unbelievable and worth the admission cost for the elevator (of course, the weather and visibility are important factors)
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Great concrete architecture. Simple, clean, elegant design. There are no stain glass windows and nor religious artifacts. Fantastic organ. If you get a chance go to the top of the clock tower for great 360 deg views over the town.
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