Seven centuries
of episcopal power

Skálholt Cathedral
is always open
Daily worship at 09:00 and 18:00

Mass is celebrated every Sunday
at 11:00 or 14.00

The Skálholt Summer Concerts are held in the Cathedral on five weekends in July and August. Admission free

Accommodation and restaurant open al year

90 km from Reykjavík

Homepage
www.skalholt.is

Skálholt in Biskupstungur is one of Iceland’s most important historic sites. Iceland’s first bishop, Ísleifur Gissurarson, ordained in 1056, settled at Skálholt, which was the episcopal see of South Iceland and a centre of culture and education for 700 years. In 1801  the episcopal see and school were transferred to Reykjavík but the see of Skálholt was re-established in 1909. Due to the historical importance of Skálholt, redevelopment there commenced in the mid-20th century. The present cathedral was consecrated in 1963: in addition to its modern works of art, the cathedral also contains fine articles from a 17th-century cathedral on the site. In the crypt is an exhibition from the National Museum, including the sarcophagus of Bishop Páll Jónsson (bishop 1195-1211), unearthed in 1954.  Archaeological excavations at Skálholt have revealed many interesting finds. A Folk High School was founded at Skálholt in 1973. The present Skálholt School is an educational and cultural centre for the National Lutheran Church.  Accommodation and restaurant facilities – including medieval banquets by arrangement – are available all year at the Skálholt School adjacent to the Cathedral.