Museums and Exhibitions in South Iceland That You Won't Want to Miss!
Discover Museums and Exhibitions
If you're planning a trip to South Iceland, you will want to experience some of the incredible museums and exhibitions that are found in the region. From the majestic Sólheimar Eco-Village to the fascinating Skógar Folk Museum, there are a variety of museums in South Iceland to explore. In addition to the traditional museums, South Iceland also hosts several unique exhibitions throughout the year, offering visitors the chance to experience the culture and history of the region.
ON Geothermal Exhibition at Hellisheiðarvirkjun
The ON Geothermal Exhibition at Hellisheiði geothermal power plant is a unique educational experience that allows visitors to explore Iceland's world-leading green power production up close and personal. The exhibition is open every day of the year except December 25 and January 1 and has different opening hours in summer and winter, allowing visitors to make the most of their visit regardless of the season.
At the interactive exhibition, visitors can experience geothermal power production through multimedia technology, including audio and visual guides, animations, games, and more. There is also a café, a shop, and an interactive quiz game for those looking for a more engaging experience. Contacting the exhibition in advance is recommended for larger parties of 10 or more people to ensure a smooth and organized visit.
Eyrarbakki Maritime Museum
The Eyrarbakki Maritime Museum offers a unique trip to the days of fishing in South Iceland. The museum consists of a fascinating collection of artifacts related to the fishing industry, from fishing boats and equipment to documents, photos, and more. The largest item in the museum is a large twelve-rower called Farsæll, built in 1915 and believed to be the oldest boat of its kind in Iceland.
Visitors will learn about the area’s fishing history, from ancient times to the present. They can also explore the tools Icelandic fishermen use to catch fish and their traditional boats and learn about the fishing industry's impact on the local economy.
The museum is open from May 1st to September 30th, daily from 11.00-18.00. During the winter months, opening hours are by arrangement only. The museum is an excellent opportunity to learn more about South Iceland's past and gain insight into the country's heritage.
Listasafn Árnesinga
LÁ Art Museum (Listasafn Árnesinga) is located in Hveragerði and offers an interesting insight into the cultural heritage and contemporary change of the region. The museum has four spacious exhibition rooms where you can explore various artworks by local and international artists. The museum also features a seating area, a café, and a children's corner where kids can play and explore while adults participate in the exhibitions.
The museum is open from June to August every day from 12:00-17:00, and from September to May from Tuesdays to Sundays from 12:00-17:00. Listasafn Árnesinga is closed for a month around Christmas and New Year.
Skyrland
Skyrland immerses the senses in the world of skyr, Iceland's unique superfood. Skyr is a creamy Icelandic yogurt with a 1000-year history that generations have enjoyed. At Skyrland, visitors can explore the interactive exhibition, which takes them to the heart of Icelandic history, culture, and nature. This exhibition provides a wonderful insight into how skyr is made and how it is part of Icelandic life today.
The Old Dairy in Selfoss is the home of Skyrland, where visitors can discover the unique production process behind this traditional product. Through interactive exhibitions, visitors can learn about the origins and history of skyr and its current production methods. Visitors can even create their own skyr recipe or learn more about the sustainable farming practices that ensure the highest quality ingredients are used. With its immersive and informative content, Skyrland is a must-stop destination for food lovers.
The Lava Center
The Lava Center is dedicated to the unique volcanoes and geology of Iceland. Here, you can explore the art and science of geology and volcanic systems in Iceland in an interactive educational exhibition. Discover the powerful and often destructive force of volcanoes through the collection of artifacts, films, and graphics from various volcano eruptions in the past century.
The Lava Center is located within the Katla Geopark, which contains geological features of global significance. It is one of the most active volcanic regions in the world, with over 150 volcanic eruptions recorded in the area.
Eldheimar
Eldheimar memorializes the devastating 1973 volcanic eruption in Vestmannaeyjar, one of Iceland's biggest natural disasters. The eruption started in the early hours of 23 January 1973 on the island of Heimaey and lasted for five months. During that time, lava and ash destroyed almost 400 homes and businesses, a third of all buildings on Heimaey. The islanders were forced to evacuate their homes, not knowing if they could ever return to their beloved island. Despite the immense destruction, the people of Vestmannaeyjar persevered, rebuilding their homes and businesses. Today, Eldheimar stands as a memorial to the spirit of resilience of the islanders and serves to remind visitors of the power of nature.
Skogar Museum
Skogar Museum is located in south Iceland, about 150 km east of Reykjavik and 30 km west of Vik. Founded in 1949, it is home to an impressive collection of over 18,000 regional artifacts.
The museum is divided into three parts: Folk Museum, Open Air Museum, and Technical Museum. The Folk Museum houses various artifacts on three floors, ranging from fishing to agriculture to textiles to natural history. The Open Air Museum is a unique experience that allows visitors to explore how Icelanders lived through the centuries with turf and stone houses. Finally, the Technical Museum tells the story of technology and transportation development in Iceland in the 19th and 20th centuries.
In addition to the artifacts and exhibitions, Skogar Museum also has a souvenir shop and the Skogakaffi cafeteria. Guided tours are available upon reservation in English, German, and Icelandic for groups of ten people or more, and sometimes in French, Spanish, Norwegian, and Danish. Skogar Museum is open 364 days a year, with different hours depending on the season.
Icelandic Lava Show
The Icelandic Lava Show is an unforgettable experience that immerses visitors in Iceland's fascinating geology and volcanic history. It starts with a short educational video about Icelandic volcanism before introducing the audience to Katla UNESCO GEOPARK and the volcanoes surrounding Vík. The show includes a dramatic retelling of the catastrophic eruption of the Katla volcano in 1918, complete with sound and visuals to bring the story to life.
When the lights dim, visitors are advised to put on their security goggles, and a mesmerizing display begins – the lava starts to pour into the showroom. The intense heat radiates from the molten lava, quickly warming the temperature in the showroom. From its bright orange color, the lava slowly cools to grey and then black.
The show's host then takes over and plays with the lava, demonstrating its properties. To make sure everyone fully understands what's happening, they also encourage an interactive Q&A session. At the show’s end, most visitors agree that Icelandic Lava Show is a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland.
Hafnleysa Maritime Museum
Nestled in the quaint fishing village of Vík lies the Hafnleysa Maritime Museum. Named after its namesake ship, the Skaftfellingur was a three-masted schooner that served on the Atlantic during World War II. On 7 June 1942, it famously saved a crew from a sinking German U-464 submarine, further cementing its place in Icelandic maritime history.
The remains of the Skaftfellingur were salvaged by Sigrún Jónsdóttir and brought home to Vík, where it was turned into a museum. This museum is ideal for families and visitors of all ages, as there are several activities to participate in. Costumes from days past are available for children, and there is plenty of historical footage and a documentary about the Skaftfellingur for visitors to view. Visiting this maritime museum will surely be an educational and enjoyable experience.
Svavarssafn - Svavar Guðnason Art Museum
Located in Höfn, Svavarssafn is a contemporary art museum. The museum was founded in honor of Svavar Guðnason, the first Icelandic abstract painter. The museum owns approximately 500 works by Svavar and other artists from the area. They hold three exhibitions each year that combine works by contemporary artists and works from the collection.
The museum is open all year round and located in the city hall, free of charge. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm in the summer, seven days a week. In winter, the opening hours are from 1pm to 5pm on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
Visiting Svavarssafn is a great way to discover more about the history of Icelandic art and appreciate its beauty.
In conclusion, South Iceland is home to a wealth of fascinating museums and exhibitions that offer visitors a glimpse into the region's unique culture, history, and natural wonders. Whether you're interested in geothermal energy, the fishing industry, art, food, volcanoes, or the power of nature, there is something for everyone in South Iceland. From interactive multimedia exhibitions to authentic artifacts and personal stories, these museums and exhibitions provide an educational and immersive experience for all ages. So, if you're planning a trip to South Iceland, be sure to visit some of these amazing museums and exhibitions that you won't want to miss.
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