The history of Isafjordur is inevitably linked to the fishing industry, which is well represented at the Westfjords Heritage Museum (Isafjordur Maritime Museum).
A beautifully restored 1784 salt fish warehouse, houses the museum, in a location called Nedstikaupstadur or Nedsti for short. Before it used to be a trading site for fish and other goods, as it’s close to the harbor. Various other buildings are located on the same spot which gives the impression of walking into a tiny historical village.
Permanent Exhibits
Permanent exhibits trace the development of the town and its fishing industry, by displaying various nautical equipment. As a result, most of the museum collection consists of diverse historical things related to the fisheries and the fishing industry around the Westfjords. The museums’s focus on preserving old boats using old methods has given new life to about 15 different boats which the museum is responsible for. The Westfjords Heritage Museum also owns a large collection of accordions, 140 in fact. Although only a few of them are on display at any given time.
Recreation of daily life
During the summer time, a local theater group recreates daily life in the beginning of the 19th century. Dressed in the Icelandic national costume, the young people sing, dance and read poems to visitors. At the adjacent museum restaurant, visitors can see the traditional ‘sun-drying’ method for drying cod.
Opening hours of the Westfjords Heritage Museum
June 1st – August 31st: Daily 10 am – 17 (5 pm)
Rest of the year: Upon request
Where is the Westfjords Heritage Museum?
Located close to the harbor in Isafjordur, in a beautiful black wooden house.
Check out our complete guide to the Westfjords.
