Skriðuklaustur

Skriðuklaustur is a cultural centre run by Gunnarsstofnun, an institution dedicated to the memory of the writer Gunnar Gunnarsson. The unique building that houses the centre was built by Gunnar himself in 1939, on his return to Iceland after living in Denmark for 30 years. The house was designed by the German architect Fritz Höger (1877-1949), who is best-known for designing the Chilehaus in Hamburg. Höger, who was good friends with Gunnar, designed the Skriðuklaustur residence in South-Bavarian style.

Gunnar lived at Skriðuklaustur for only nine years before moving to Reykjavík and donating the property and house to the Icelandic people.

The main goal of Gunnarsstofnun is to preserve the memory of the author Gunnar Gunnarsson, and to bring his work to the attention of new generations of readers. Skriðuklaustur contains a museum on the author, and hosts various cultural events and exhibitions with a bearing on his work, or on Icelandic history and nature. Gunnarsstofnun also maintains a guest apartment for artists or scholars, as well as a restaurant. Skriðuklaustur is open daily between May 1 and September 20.

The Skriðuklaustur property also contains the remains of an Augustinian monastery, which was in operation from 1493 to 1550. In recent years, extensive archaeological excavations have taken place at the site, yielding fascinating new insights on Icelandic medieval society. The remains are accessible to the public.

In addition, Skriðuklaustur houses a visitor centre for Vatnajökull national park, the biggest national park in Europe.