Icelandic ancient sod structures
Exploring Iceland's Turf Houses and Churches: A Journey Through History
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Öræfi, you'll find the quaint Hofskirkja church. This church has a special connection to Helgi Bjarnason, a notable figure in Iceland's history.
As we venture further east into West Skaftafellssýsla, we come across Núpsstaður farm, a significant location for several reasons. Not only is it home to one of the last remaining turf churches in Iceland, but it's also associated with Jónas Erlendsson.
The turf church at Núpsstaður farm is a testament to Iceland's rich historical heritage. However, it's important to note that the turf farm featured in the film Paradisarheimt is a set reconstruction, not an original structure.
When discussing Iceland's preserved turf houses, we must mention three key sites that have been converted into museums. The Laufás Heritage Site and Museum near Akureyri boasts a large turf house renovated based on 1860s heritage pictures, offering a glimpse into the past.
The Glaumbær Folk Museum, considered the best ethnographic museum in Iceland, is another must-visit. This museum houses the best-preserved historic turf farm estate and is home to a unique six-gable sod (turf) house.
Lastly, Sænautasel Turf House in the Icelandic Highlands, though not directly a museum, is a significant preserved example of a highland turf house.
These preserved turf houses and churches serve as a testament to Iceland's traditional architecture, with upkeep and restoration ongoing due to the labor-intensive maintenance these structures require.
Our journey continues as we reach Bakkagerði, a location in Borgarfjörður Eystri, which has its own unique history and charm. Here, Golli / Kjartan Þorbjörnsson plays an important role.
These well-preserved relics of Iceland's past offer a fascinating insight into the country's history and culture, making them essential stops for any history enthusiast visiting Iceland.
- The richness of Icelandic history extends beyond its churches and turf houses seen in the landscapes of Öræfi and West Skaftafellssýsla, as evidenced by the lifestyle museums like Laufás, Glaumbær, Sænautasel, and the turf church at Núpsstadhùr.
- For those intrigued by Iceland's home-and-garden practices of yesteryears, a visit to these historic sites, such as the Laufás Heritage Site, Glaumbær Folk Museum, Sænautasel Turf House, and other preserved houses, provides a captivating glimpse into the country's unique architecture and historical lifestyles.
