Skálholt Cathedral

Skálholt Cathedral is a historic church located approximately 55 kilometers east of Reykjavík in south Iceland, marking one of the most significant religious and cultural sites in Icelandic history. Skálholt served as Iceland's ecclesiastical center and bishop's seat for nearly 700 years from 1056 to 1785, making it the country's most important religious institution throughout the medieval and early modern periods.

The site hosted Iceland's first school, established in 1056, which educated the nation's clergy and elite for centuries. At its peak during the 12th and 13th centuries, Skálholt functioned as one of only two bishop's seats in Iceland alongside Hólar in the north, wielding considerable political and religious power over the island.

The original complex included a massive cathedral, one of the largest wooden structures in medieval Scandinavia, along with libraries, residential buildings, and workshops. However, earthquakes in 1784 devastated the structures, and the bishop's seat relocated to Reykjavík in 1785, ending Skálholt's prominence.

The site remained largely abandoned until the 20th century when restoration efforts began. The current Skálholt Cathedral was consecrated in 1963, designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson, who also created Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík. The modern church seats approximately 300 people and features clean lines and minimalist Nordic design typical of mid-century Icelandic architecture.

You'll find the cathedral's interior notably austere, with white walls and simple furnishings directing attention to the impressive stained-glass window behind the altar, created by artist Gerður Helgadóttir. The window depicts biblical scenes and Icelandic Christian history in vivid colors. The church contains a notable mosaic by Nína Tryggvadóttir and houses a substantial pipe organ with 2,568 pipes, regularly used for concerts during the summer music festival.

You can descend into the basement crypt to view the reconstructed burial chamber of Bishop Páll Jónsson, who served from 1195 to 1211 and was one of Iceland's most influential medieval bishops. Archaeological excavations beneath the cathedral have revealed foundations of earlier churches dating back to the 11th century, with some artifacts displayed on-site.

The Skálholt Summer Concerts run from late June through August, featuring weekly performances of classical music, choral works, and organ recitals that showcase the cathedral's exceptional acoustics. The site also includes a small exhibition space with historical artifacts, medieval manuscripts reproductions, and information about Skálholt's role in Icelandic Christianity and education. A memorial stone outside commemorates Bishop Jón Arason, Iceland's last Catholic bishop, executed in 1550 during the Protestant Reformation.

You can reach Skálholt via Route 31 and Route 35, with the drive from Reykjavík taking approximately 50 to 60 minutes. The cathedral sits roughly 20 kilometers west of Geysir and the Golden Circle route, making it a practical addition for those exploring the area. From Selfoss, the drive takes about 25 minutes. Limited public transportation serves the area, making private vehicle rental or organized tours most practical. Some Golden Circle tour operators include Skálholt as an optional stop.