Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The columns on either side of the tower represent volcanic basalt, part of Samúelsson's
desire to create a national architectural style. Out front, gazing proudly into the distance is
cover America. Designed by Alexander Stirling Calder (1870-1945), it was a present from
the USA on the 1000th anniversary of the Alþing (National Assembly) in 1930.
Hallgrímskirkja (pronounced
hatl-
krims-
kirk-
ya) was named after poet Reverend
Hallgrímur Pétursson (1614-1674), who wrote Iceland's most popular hymn book:
Passíusálmar
(Passion Hymns).
From mid-June to mid-August, hear
choir concerts
(admission Ikr2000) at noon on
Wednesday, and
organ recitals
at noon on Saturday and some Thursdays (admission
Ikr1700), and on Sunday at 5pm (admission Ikr2500). Services are held Sunday at 11am,
with a small service Wednesday at 8am. There is an English service the last Sunday of the
month at 2pm.
Harpa
CULTURAL BUILDING
Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm Sat & Sun)
With its ever-changing facets glistening on the water's edge, Reykjavík's sparkling Harpa
concert hall and cultural centre is a beauty to behold. In addition to a season of top-notch
shows (some free), it's worth stopping by to explore the shimmering interior with harbor
vistas, or take a 45-minute
tour
of the hall (Ikr1500; 9am, 11am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm daily
June to August, 3.30pm Monday to Friday, 11am & 3.30pm Saturday and Sunday Septem-
ber to May).
Harpa dazzles the eye with an intricate lattice of convex and concave glass panels that
sparkle at night like the switchboard of an alien spaceship. Designed by Danish firm Hen-
ning Larsen Architects, Icelandic firm Batteríið Architects, and Danish-Icelandic artist
Olafur Eliasson, Harpa opened in 2011. The lobby houses design boutiques and a branch
of
12 Tónar
music store, and gourmet restaurant
Kolabrautin
perches on the upper level.
Reykjavík Art Museum - Kjarvalsstaðir
ART MUSEUM
Ikr1300/free; 10am-5pm)
