Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
shores, and their paths are much used by cyclists and joggers. In winter, hardy souls strap
on ice skates and turn the lake into an
outdoor rink
.
Austurvöllur
PARK
Grassy Austurvöllur was once part of first-settler Ingólfur Arnarson's hay fields. Today it's
a favourite spot for cafe lounging or lunchtime picnics and summer sunbathing next to the
Alþingi, and is sometimes used for open-air concerts and political demonstrations. The
statue
in the centre is of Jón Sigurðsson, who led the campaign for Icelandic independen-
ce.
Alþingi
HISTORIC BUILDING
Iceland's first parliament, the Alþingi, was created at Þingvellir in AD 930. After losing its
independence in the 13th century, the country gradually won back its autonomy, and the
modern Alþingi moved into this current basalt building in 1881; a stylish glass-and-stone
annexe was completed in 2002. Visitors can attend
sessions
(four times weekly October to
May; see website for details) when parliament is sitting.
Raðhús
NOTABLE BUILDING
Reykjavík's waterside Raðhús is a beautifully positioned postmodern construction of con-
crete stilts, tinted windows and mossy walls rising from Tjörnin. Inside there's one of the
city's top cafe-restaurants,
Við Tjörnina
,
and an interesting 3D map of Iceland.
Reykjavík Museum of Photography
MUSEUM
15, 6th fl, Grófarhús; noon-7pm Mon-Thu, to 6pm Fri, 1-5pm Sat & Sun)
This gallery room above Reykjavík City Library is worth a visit for its top-notch exhibi-
tions of regional photographers. If you take the lift up, descend by the stairs, which are
lined with vintage black-and-white photos.
