Hallgrimskirkja Church
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This world renown church is as beautiful as it is imposing. And beautiful is not a word normally used to describe an enormous concrete structure, but its beauty
is in the simplicity both inside and out.
As you approach the church, you pass by a striking statue of Lief Erickson. Dwarfed in size by the church, this statue is probably the most photographed item in Reykjavik. And here is an interesting fact, this 50-ton statute was a gift from the United States!
Upon entering the church, you turn left to a very small gift shop where you pay a small fee to visit the interior and bell tower. The overall feeling is one of serenity. The first thing I noticed was the absence of stained glass windows inside. Just above the entry, there is a lovely large stained glass display.
The pews / seats were austere as were the limited religious statues. The pipe organ (below) was very ornate.
After touring the downstairs, I took the elevator up to the belfry and observation area. Now that was a sight to behold. You can see a 360-degree view of Reykjavik from the top of the church.
The long street to the right is the main street, which takes you almost to the waterfront.
Many of the shoppes and cafes are former homes.
You can see the waterfront and the condos I photographed on my first day.
The setting sun was beautiful but it was also only 2pm!
And back to the beginning .....
The bell tower with so many people waiting for the bells to go off - not me! I like my hearing :)
