Home of chieftain/scholar
Snorri Sturluson
Reykholt Music Festival is held the last weekend in July
Snorrastofa
Open: Summer 1/5-30/9
daily 10:00-18:00
Open: Winter 1/10-30/4
weekdays 10:00-17:00
Other times by arrangement
108 km from Reykjavík
Homepage
www.snorrastofa.is
    
    
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Reykholt is renowned in Icelandic history as an important church site and cultural centre. It was the home of chieftain/scholar Snorri Sturluson , from 1206 until he was murdered in his home on 23 September 1241. Snorri was the author of Heimskringla (a history of the Kings of Norway) and the Prose Edda (a guide to Old Icelandic poetry and mythology), and probably also of the Saga of Egill. At Reykholt various ancient structures survive, including Snorralaug (Snorri’s hot bathing pool), as well as remnants of a church and farm buildings, and the underground passage that led out to the pool. Extensive archaeological excavations have been carried out in recent years. The Snorrastofa cultural/research centre at Reykholt offers historical exhibitions, lectures and guided tours, as well as an apartment for visiting scholars, and facilities for conferences and other events. A small shop in Snorrastofa offers Icelandic handicrafts and works of art, as well as books on history and literature. Reykholt Church is a popular venue for concerts. Reykholt has abundant geothermal energy, and a hotel and shop open all year. |
