Skalholt is in south Iceland, about 93 km from Reykjavik, and it was one of Iceland's two ancient episcopal sees. A bishopric was established here in 1056, and the present cathedral was built from 1956 to 1963, then consecrated in 1963.

Skalholt: an ancient seat of Icelandic Christianity

Skalholt in south Iceland was one of Iceland's two ancient episcopal sees, alongside Holar in the north. For centuries it was Iceland's foremost centre of religion, culture, learning, and political power. It remained an episcopal see until the late 18th century, spanning roughly 740 years.

The founding of the bishopric in 1056

A bishopric was established at Skalholt in 1056, with Isleifur Gissurarson as its first bishop.

The Reformation and the beheading of Jon Arason

Lutheranism was established at Skalholt during the Reformation in 1540. Jon Arason, the last Catholic bishop in Iceland, was beheaded at Skalholt in 1550 with his two sons. His execution effectively ended Catholic rule and cemented the Reformation in Iceland.

Skalholt Cathedral and the churches before it

The present Skalholt Cathedral was built from 1956 to 1963 and consecrated in 1963. It was raised to mark 900 years since the founding of the see in 1056. The current cathedral is counted as the tenth church to stand on the site.

Some earlier medieval churches here reached up to around 50 metres in length.

The crypt and archaeological remains

The crypt holds the stone sarcophagus of Bishop Pall Jonsson, who died in 1211. The sarcophagus was uncovered during excavations for the cathedral foundations in 1954.

A medieval tunnel once linking cathedral and school was rebuilt in 1958 to resemble the original.

Visiting Skalholt on a Golden Circle tour

Skalholt lies in south Iceland near the river Hvita, about 93 km from Reykjavik. Its position makes it an easy addition to a Golden Circle route. To compare options, see Golden Circle tours.

Allow time for the road

Check the Driving Distance Calculator when deciding how Skalholt Cathedral Iceland: key history and site belongs in the rest of your itinerary.