Hólar is one of Iceland´s best-known historical sites. It was the seat of the Bishop from 1106-1801, as well as the main regional centre during that period. The current cathedral at Hólar was consecrated in 1763, and has since been restored to it´s original state. It is made of red sandstone that was transported from Hólabyrði above the town. A turf farmhouse dates from 1854, and was still occupied until the middle of the 20th century. The University of Hólar has been operated since 1882. Visitors can take a “walk through history” on a marked trail, and there is an exhibition relating to the Icelandic horse and the ecosystem of Icelandic lakes. Explore the bishop´s garden, historic buildings, memorials, archaeologiacal excavations and turf farm. Population 200.

Hólar is one of two Episcopal seats in Iceland and one of the primary historical places in Iceland. The Bishopric was created in 1106 and the first bishop was Jón Ögmundsson. For seven centuries Hólar was a bishopric and thereto a school has been operated there for centuries. During these times Hólar really was the capital of northern part of Iceland. The bishopric came to an end in 1801 however it was revived in 1985 and now the auxiliary bishop sits there. The most well known bishops were Jón Arason the last catholic bishop and Guðbrandur Þorláksson who printed Guðbrands bible. Jón Arason bought the first printing press to Iceland.

The current church at Hólar is the fifth cathedral in a row. It is the oldest stone church in Iceland and has now to some extent been reconstructed to its earlier form. The church and its relics are very remarkable and it is possible to take guided tours of the church every day between 10 am and 6 pm.

The school at Hólar was revived in 1882 and the agriculture school was founded as an endeavour to counteract the westward migration of the Icelandic people. Now the school teaches equine and tourism studies at University level as well as fish farming. Tourism services operate at Hólar from June to the end of August. A variety of recreational activities are available both at Hólar and in its neighbourhood. For example a pamphlet has been prepared for tourist to follow a historical trail through the interesting places at Hólar.

Skagafjörður area is known for activities such as horses, golf in Sauðárkrókur and near Hofsós, boat tours to Drangey and Málmey, river rafting, hiking, swimming and a very large selection of historical museums all over the area.

See our Travel Guide for further information about Northwest Iceland and other areas of Iceland.

Check out the rates for Guesthouse Hólar.