Skálholt

Skálholt, nestled between Reykholt and Selfoss in southern Iceland, on the banks of River Hvita, about 92 km from Reykjavik, was the most important cultural and political centre in Iceland for nearly 730 years (from 1056 to 1785) and one of the two Episcopal seats in the country. This quaint town also boasts of Iceland’s first official school, Skálholtsskóli, where a gymnasium, Reykjavik Gymnasium (MR) now stands. 

Skálholt, nestled between Reykholt and Selfoss in southern Iceland, on the banks of River Hvita, about 92 km from Reykjavik, was the most important cultural and political centre in Iceland for nearly 730 years (from 1056 to 1785) and one of the two Episcopal seats in the country. This quaint town also boasts of Iceland’s first official school, Skálholtsskóli, where a gymnasium, Reykjavik Gymnasium (MR) now stands.

About seven centuries ago, Skálholt was a bustling town, with a cathedral, a monastery, a school, dormitories and even a smithy, and was surrounded by extending farms on all sides. This town with immense historical importance also gave roots to Catholicism in Iceland, until the Reformation period, when Bishop Jón Arason and his two sons were beheaded in 1550. In his transcripts, Adam of Bremen described Skálholt as the “largest town in Iceland ”, which is still regarded as the epicentre of cultural tourism. Skálholt sees a tourist buzz all around the year, but much more in summer when several cultural events are held, including the Summer Concert in July, which features classical musicians, choirs, concerts and other cultural events.

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