Hallgrímskirkja Church: Reykjavík’s Iconic Architectural Marvel

One of Iceland's most iconic and breathtaking landmarks is Hallgrímskirkja church. This isn't just any church; it's a symbol of Icelandic identity, a fusion of history, and a beautiful architectural design that speaks volumes about the island's unique character. Later on, in my random fact of the episode, I share who this church is named after. Ask Jewells Anything Before I jump in, I am excited to share that I have created a form where my listeners and followers can submit questions for the “Ask Jewells About Iceland” podcast episodes I plan to do. Here is he link to submit your question. The Towering Presence in Reykjavík's Skyline Perched on the scenic hilltop of Skólavörðuholt, Hallgrímskirkja stands tall at 74.5 meters (244 ft), making it not only the largest church in Iceland but also one of the tallest structures in the country. Its visibility throughout Reykjavík turns it into a landmark for those meandering through the city's streets. A Church was Commissioned by the Icelandic Government Althingi, or the Icelandic Parliament, put forth a design competition for a church in 1929. The only specifications were that it had to seat 1,200 people and have a high tower that can possibly be used for radio signal transmissions. A Design Inspired by Nature The church's design, a masterpiece by State Architect Guðjón Samúelsson, was commissioned in 1937. Samúelsson drew inspiration from the stunning Icelandic landscape. The church’s exterior mimics the fascinating basalt columns found in places around the country, like on Reynisfjara black sand beach or Svartifoss waterfall. Overall, the design is meant to depict the mountains and glaciers of Iceland soaring up through imitations of hexagonal basalt columns.The building of the church started in 1945 and the first stage of it was complete in 1948. However, only the ground floor of the back of the church was consecrated for service. The whole church was consecrated in on October 26th, 1986. This happen to be the day before death of Hallgrímur Petursson’s death and the same year Reykjavik was celebrating 200 years of being a town and city. Hallgrímskirka is an Example of Expressionist Architecture If you're a fan of expressionist architecture, you'll spot similarities in the interior of Hallgrímskirkja church with Grundtvig's Church in Copenhagen and the Kirche am Hohenzollernplatz in Berlin.Along with designing this iconic church, Samúelsson is also responsible for designing the National Theater, the Roman Catholic Church in Reykjavik, and the main building of the University of Iceland. Inside Hallgrímskirkja: A Harmony of Art and Spirituality Step inside, and you're greeted by a serene yet powerful atmosphere. The interior, spanning 1,676 square meters, is a blend of traditional and modern design elements, evoking a sense of grandeur and reverence. The Sound of Music: An Organist's Dream Music enthusiasts, rejoice! Hallgrímskirkja houses not one, but two large pipe organs. The crown jewel is the Johannes Klais of Bonn organ, featuring electronic action, 102 ranks, 72 stops, and a staggering 5275 pipes.Standing 15 meters tall and weighing 25 metric tons, it’s an instrument that not only plays music but also tells a story of artistic brilliance. The organ was financed through private gifts. I think there are some pipes that people can “purchase” and once it is bought, you receive a certificate that you are a patron of a particular pipe. An Observation Tower with a View For the best views of Reykjavík and the surrounding mountains, take the lift to the church's observation tower.