One of the highlights of visiting Reyjkavik was being able to sit outside in a common area and enjoy a goody from a local bakery prior to going to the famed Hallgrimskirkja. Besides that, it gave us a break from walking uphill toward what was surely one of the most imposing sights we've ever seen.
To me, the building looked a lot like a space shuttle, ready for takeoff. After entering the church, we purchased an admission ticket to go to the top of the observation tower. It cost only a few dollars and was well worth the price.
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Statue of Leif Erikson, discoverer of America
in front of church. |
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The bottom line..not right when money is
paid for tower admission |
From this high vantage point, we could see the surrounding neighbourhood including this interesting grass roofed restaurant, and good view of the city in general.
As we searched for the downtown city hall area, we walked past many magnificent houses, art installations, a sculpture garden, shops, and restaurants. Everything was different, but not totally unfamiliar. I developed a renewed fascination for Vikings, trolls, and folklore.
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| Many sculptures appeared burdened...as if carrying heavy weights |
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| Lovely gardens and sculptures all around. |
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Children in Iceland play. They spend much time outdoors and
use their imaginations. This is what impressed me most. |
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| Centrally located and a good landmark - Hallgrimskirkja |
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| Hand knitted woollen products abound. |
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| I have been one and I loved it. |
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| Meeting Vikings...dream vacation |
In the evening, we attended a show at the famed Harpa, a conference hall and conference centre which opened in 2011. It was a one man comedy performance entitled "How to Become Icelandic in 60 Minutes." We enjoyed the surroundings of this beautiful building, then laughed heartily at the show presented by Bjarni Haukur Thorsson. We had already had some of the experiences which were described so it became even more amusing. Besides explaining that all Icelandic names end in "son" or "dottir" eg. his name....Thorsson, meaning son of Thor, he gave us many tips. Here are just a few that I remember. To be an Icelander, it's essential to be rude (explains the airline experience). Embrace the smells (sulphur and other things...lots of wind). Know that the Icelandic horses are special and have five walks while Icelandic people have two. Argue - think big-you know you're right (they have 7 political parties and a huge national debt). Give vague directions (had this experience many times). Learn to say the name of the volcano Eyjafjallajokull (he showed a video clip of varied newscasters stumbling over the name).
Here's a similar cute clip I found on youtube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uCKSYTH-4o
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| Lovely modern architecture |
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| Street view |
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| We graduated |
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| Back of the Harpa |
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