Built in 1939, Skriðuklaustur is the most recognised and most famous building in East Iceland. In addition, this museum is the former home of the beloved Icelandic author, Gunnar Gunnarsson.
Gunnar Gunnarsson, one of Iceland’s most famous authors, built this beautiful stone building in the area where he grew up. A German architect named Fritz Höger designed the house; it’s 315 square meters and has an attic and two floors.
When Gunnar and his wife moved to Reykjavík nine years later, they gave Skriðuklaustur to the Icelandic nation. The building is now a centre of culture and history and home to Gunnarsstofnun, or the Institute of Gunnar Gunnarsson, which displays objects connected to his work and life.
In 1997, the Gunnar Gunnarsson Institute was established by law. In addition, the Ministry of Education assumed responsibility of Skriðuklaustur in 1999. Skriðuklaustur is now an educational institute and museum dedicated to the life and work of the author.
From a monastery to a museum and visitor centre
During the middle ages the area was a monastery (“klaustur” is the Icelandic word for “monastery”). In recent years, an archaeological excavation has shown that the monastery served also as a local hospital. Today Skriðuklaustur serves as a museum and as a writers retreat. The Snæfell Visitor’s Centre for eastern Vatnajökull National Park is next to Skriðuklaustur.
Skriðuklaustur also houses a restaurant, Klausturkaffi. This little restaurant is very popular with both locals and visitors for its home-made traditional East Icelandic cuisine. People especially enjoy the lunchtime buffet.
Skriðuklaustur opening hours
April-May & September-15th of October daily at 11 am – 17 (5 pm)
June-August daily at 10 am – 18 (6 pm)
Rest of the year: Upon request
Where is Skriðuklaustur ?
Skriðuklaustur is 40 km from Egilsstaðir town, in the upper end of Lagarfljót lake.
GPS: 65.041417 N, -14.953272 W
