Arbaer Open Air Museum

Arbaer Open Air Museum is a fantastic spot for anyone curious about Iceland’s cultural history. Situated in Reykjavik, this museum offers an engaging experience with traditional Icelandic buildings, artifacts, and glimpses into daily life from past centuries. With over 30 preserved houses, each filled with period-appropriate items, visitors can really get a feel for how Icelanders lived back in the day.

History

The concept of an Icelandic open-air museum started in 1942 due to worries about “”Old Reykjavik”” disappearing with modern development. It wasn’t until 1957 that Arbaer Open Air Museum came to life. The historic Arbaer farmstead was chosen as the museum’s location. Many buildings were moved from downtown Reykjavik and nearby areas, with some dating back to the 10th century. The oldest houses came from Vopnafjörður in the East Fjords, while others were relocated from different parts of Reykjavik.

How to Get There

Getting to Arbaer Open Air Museum from Reykjavik city center is a breeze. You can rent a car and drive there in about 15 minutes. Alternatively, several bus routes, including numbers 5, 6, and 16, connect to the museum from downtown Reykjavik. If you’re driving, there’s free parking available on-site.

Attractions

1. Traditional Turf Houses: These houses show how Icelanders lived in earlier times using natural materials like wood, stone, and turf.
2. Reconstructed Village: The museum features a village with homes, a blacksmith’s workshop, and a general store from the early 20th century.
3. Exhibitions: Each building has interesting exhibitions covering different aspects of Iceland’s history, with both temporary and long-standing exhibits.
4. Christmas Program: In winter, the museum becomes a winter wonderland with traditional Icelandic decorations, crafts, and live demonstrations of historic holiday customs.
5. National Celebrations: The museum is lively with traditional costumes, music, dancing, and games during national celebrations like Iceland’s National Day on June 17th.

Ticket Information

Admission to the Arbaer Open Air Museum is included with the Reykjavik City Card (except for the ferry ride to Viðey Island). Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance or online beforehand.

Tips for Visiting

1. Guided Tours: Consider a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the place and its history.
2. Interactive Exhibits: The museum offers interactive exhibits, especially for kids, like the “”Consumption – Reykjavik in the 20th century”” exhibition and the children’s culture exhibit in a former church and sports hall called Landakot.
3. Seasonal Events: Check the event calendar for seasonal events like Christmas programs and national celebrations to enhance your visit.
4. Explore at Your Own Pace: The museum covers several acres, allowing visitors to wander and explore whichever houses catch their interest.
5. Photography: Bring your camera to capture the unique architecture and historical settings.

Arbaer Open Air Museum is a great destination for those interested in Iceland’s cultural heritage in an interactive and engaging way. With its rich history, diverse attractions, and convenient location, it’s a must-visit for anyone traveling to Reykjavik.