Hallgrímskirkja is Reykjavík’s most famous landmark and the largest church in Iceland, standing prominently on the hilltop of Skólavörðuholt near the city center.
Named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson, the church’s design by State Architect Guðjón Samúelsson was commissioned in 1937 and inspired by Iceland’s dramatic landscape, particularly the basalt lava flows and glaciers resembling towering organ pipes. The church’s impressive 74.5-meter (244 feet) tower dominates Reykjavik’s skyline and serves as an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Construction took 41 years, starting in 1945 and finishing in 1986, with the tower completed ahead of the nave. The church combines modernist and expressionist styles, with a soaring tower flanked by wing-like side buildings and a sanctuary whose shape is said to evoke Viking war helmets. Inside, visitors find a spacious nave, striking stained glass windows, and a massive pipe organ made by Johannes Klais of Bonn, which is among the largest in Iceland.
In front of the church stands a statue of the Norse explorer Leif Eriksson, a gift from the United States honoring the 1000th anniversary of Iceland’s parliament.
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Scenic beauty
Hallgrímskirkja is visually stunning both inside and out, with striking architecture inspired by nature. The views from the observation deck are among the best in Reykjavik, offering sweeping panoramas of the colorful city, surrounding mountains, and Faxaflói Bay. The church is especially beautiful illuminated at night or framed by winter snow.
Accessibility
Located in central Reykjavík, Hallgrímskirkja is easily reached by foot, car, or public transport. The church has onsite parking and a lift to the observation deck, making it accessible to most visitors. The surrounding area features shops, cafés, and cultural points of interest.
Cost
Entry to the church is free. A small fee (around 100 ISK / 0.8 USD) is charged to ascend the tower’s observation deck via elevator as of 2025.
Crowd level
Hallgrímskirkja is very popular year-round, attracting crowds especially during summer tourist season and Northern Lights viewing.