Possibly the best known landmark in the capital and largest lutheran church in the country. Designed by Iceland ́s first state architect Guðjón Samúelsson and started in 1944, but not finished until 1982. The great pipe organ has 5275 pipes and concerts are held throughout the year. The inspiration for the design of the church tower is said to be basalt columns such as the ones at Reynisfjara Black Beach and an erupting geyser. It is named after clergyman and poet Hallgrímur Pétursson who wrote among other things the Passion Hymns. In front of the church there is a statue of Leifur “The Lucky” Eriksson who, according to the sagas sailed to North America in the year 1000AD, it is a gift from The United States to the people of Iceland.
The Harpa is home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera, as well as numerous events, conferences, concerts and music festivals throughout the year. Designed by Icelandic/Danish designer Ólafur Elíasson and the glass dome enveloping the building as well as other features of the design are a reference to icelandic nature, such as the Northern Lights hall and the volcano hall. Each window of the glass dome has four glass plates and a built in colour lights making it possible to create all kinds of shapes and movements on the outside of the building.
Built on top of the old hot water tanks and looking very much like a flying saucer there is an observation deck where there is a view of pretty much the whole city and a lovely restaurant/café with a revolving floor for the dinner service. There is also the Wonders of Iceland Exhibition which aims to give a good overview of the nature of Iceland.
Fully refundable until 1 day before start
