Hólar í Hjaltadal

Hólar í Hjaltadal or simply Hólar, as it is popularly known, has been a very important historical, cultural, educational and Episcopalian centre in Iceland from 1106 to 1798. Situated in Hjaltadalur valley, about 321 km from Reykjavik, it is a site of historical buildings and archaeological excavations and was the capital of North Iceland for over seven centuries. 

Hólar í Hjaltadal or simply Hólar, as it is popularly known, has been a very important historical, cultural, educational and Episcopalian centre in Iceland from 1106 to 1798. Situated in Hjaltadalur valley, about 321 km from Reykjavik, it is a site of historical buildings and archaeological excavations and was the capital of North Iceland for over seven centuries.

During the Reformation period, Hólar was believed to be the last remaining stronghold of Catholicism. Hólar had a monastery too, where monks produced various literature and manuscripts. Iceland had its first printing press during the period here in 1530. Hólar, the Episcopal see for northern Iceland, was established as a diocese by Bishop Jon Ogmundsson in 1106. The town’s role in Iceland’s mediaeval politics was also well-acknowledged and after the religious strife was settled viciously, a Lutherian cathedral, which is said to be the oldest church made of stone in Iceland, was consecrated in 1763. Archaeological excavations were carried out in the region from the 12th to the 18th century, which threw more light on historical events during the period.  

Archaeological research initiated at Hólar in the past has unearthed over 40,000 different items, many of which can be seen in the old schoolhouse. Hólar was also held in high esteem as an educational centre and had a school well before 1882, when an Agricultural College was set-up, which was upgraded to Hólar University College in 2003. Those who are keen to know about the unusual gait of the Icelandic horse and more may visit the Center for the History of the Icelandic horse.

LOCATION

 

Share this tour