Skógar Museum - Skógasafn
One of the most interesting cultural-known attractions that Iceland has to offer is the Skógar Museum. This museum is located in the small village of Skógar, not far from the well-known Skógafoss waterfall. Established in 1949, the museum is one of Iceland’s most renowned folk museums, featuring an extensive collection of over 15,000 artifacts that provide insight into the country’s past, from the Viking Age to the 20th century. It can be pided into three parts: The Folk Museum, The Open Air Museum, and The Technical Museum. Each one provides a different look back in time at Iceland—from rural life and architectural building to developments in transportation and technology.
The Folk Museum
Part of the Skógarsafn is the Folk Museum, where you’ll find a treasure trove of Icelandic artifacts. This section will show daily living and culture that Icelanders have lived through the centuries—from the little tools that early settlers used for crafting traditional clothing and fishing equipment. On-site you’ll find the Skógar Museum church, a typical Icelandic wooden church that shows off unique Icelandic architecture.
The Open Air Museum
Step back in time as you take in the views while walking around the Open Air Museum. This part of Skógar Museum covers the collection of turf houses that used to be a common sight in Iceland. These incredibly turf-covered buildings stand as part of an incredible adaptation by early Icelanders to their harsh environment, using natural materials to create warm and maintainable homes. Walking through this area really feels like stepping back into history.
Technical Museum
The Technical Museum expounds on Iceland's transportation and development in technological aspects over the years. It is better known as Skogar Museum of Transport and represents everything from very early vehicles up to more modern machinery in this fast-developing country in technological aspects. This is a must-visit for anyone who wants to understand how Iceland transitioned from traditional farming methods to contemporary rates.
Artifacts & gifts from the hidden people
For history buffs the museum displays over 15,000 artifacts spanning Iceland’s history from the Viking Age to the 20th century. But, you can also find artifacts with an even more interesting history - gifts from the hidden people. They might be hard to locate on your own so it might be worth asking the lovely staff to point it out.
Location & How to Get There
The Skógar Museum is located in South Iceland, right from Route 1, more commonly known as the Ring Road, just a few-minute drive from Skógafoss waterfall. It's pretty easy to reach from common destinations such as Vík and Reykjavík, and there are plenty of signs that will direct you to it en route. There is ample Skógar Museum parking, making it convenient for visitors to explore the museum and the nearby attractions. Should you plan for a more extended visit, there's also the Skógar Museum Café where refreshments could be in order both before and after the tour. This is a great spot to relax and appreciate the beauty outside after a day of exploring Icelandic history.
- Skógar Museum Location: 63°31'35.0"N 19°29'35.2"W
Skógar Museum is not just about the past; it also has a strong focus on preserving Icelandic traditions and crafts for future generations. The museum’s setting, near the beautiful Skógafoss waterfall and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi waterfalls, makes it a must-visit destination for those interested in both the cultural and natural heritage of Iceland.