Located in the stunning Árnarfjörður fjord, the museum of Jón Sigurðsson celebrates the work and life of this mighty man. Jon was the leader of the 19th century Independence Movement, that called for independence from the Danish government.
With Jón at the helm, Alþingi was resurrected to it’s former glory, as the supreme national parliament of Iceland. After Jón’s death, Iceland eventually gained sovereignty on December 1st in 1918. The independence battle continued peacefully, until 1944 when Iceland finally gained full independence. The nation flocked to Þingvellir National Park that same year to celebrate this monumental event on June 17th, Jón’s birthday. On that occasion, the people also elected it’s first president, Sveinn Björnsson. Since then, Icelanders celebrate their National Day on June 17th, every year.
Jón was born and raised on the farm Hrafnseyri, in the beautiful Árnarfjörður fjord. The turfhouse museum and chapel on site are replicas of the buildings of Jón’s childhood. Besides the historical exhibition about his life, the museum of Jón Sigurðsson also serves as a nice stop for refreshments in the museum’s café.
Opening hours of the museum
June 1st – September 8th: Daily 11 am – 18 (6 pm)
Rest of the year: Upon request
Where is the Museum of Jón Sigurðsson?
The museum is located at Hrafnseyri farm in Árnarfjörður fjord, about 1 hour drive from Ísafjörður.
