Alþingi Parliament House
Home to Iceland's ancient parliament, this modest 19th-century house offers a free, insightful look into the nation's democratic heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better focus
Alþingi Parliament House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better focus
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to Iceland's ancient parliament, this modest 19th-century house offers a free, insightful look into the nation's democratic heritage.
"A must visit to see such a different kind of parliament. Iceland is really a unique place with beautiful landscapes and outstanding architecture."
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Conveniently located in Reykjavik's city center, easily accessible on foot from major attractions like Hallgrímskirkja church. :walking:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Photography is generally allowed inside, capturing the unique architecture and historical ambiance. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Debating Chamber
Step into the heart of Icelandic democracy in this historic, yet cozy, debating hall. Witness where crucial decisions are made.
Visitor Center Museum
Explore the fascinating history of Iceland's parliament, one of the world's oldest, through engaging exhibits.
The 'Speaking Rock' Installation
An interactive art piece symbolizing parliament's connection to the people, reacting to movement with historical phrases.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understanding the Alþingi's Scale
Booking Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Visiting Parliament
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Conveniently located in Reykjavik's city center, easily accessible on foot from major attractions like Hallgrímskirkja church. :walking:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Photography is generally allowed inside, capturing the unique architecture and historical ambiance. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Free Admission
Entry to the visitor center and parliament building is free, making it a budget-friendly cultural stop. :moneywithwings:
📜 Rich History
Learn about the Alþingi's journey from its 930 AD founding to its modern-day role. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Conveniently located in Reykjavik's city center, easily accessible on foot from major attractions like Hallgrímskirkja church. :walking:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Photography is generally allowed inside, capturing the unique architecture and historical ambiance. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Free Admission
Entry to the visitor center and parliament building is free, making it a budget-friendly cultural stop. :moneywithwings:
📜 Rich History
Learn about the Alþingi's journey from its 930 AD founding to its modern-day role. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Alþingi Parliament House to be a unique and historically significant site, appreciating its free admission and central location. While some note its modest size, many are impressed by the rich history and interactive exhibits, particularly the 'speaking rock.' It's considered a worthwhile stop for a glimpse into Iceland's democratic heritage.
"As we take in the scenic views of Iceland’s Parliament building from the garden, our knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary on the historical significance of Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, who made history in 1980 by becoming the world's first democratically elected female president. 🇮🇸"
Playmo Billy
"It's a nice looking building. I just didn't realise it's the Parliament, because it's too small 🤷♂️"
Sašo Naumovski
"Very unique building. It was very interesting. Very close to the city centre. Walking distance from the church. The ambience is nice. A must visit to see such a different kind of parliament. Iceland is really a unique place with beautiful landscapes and outstanding architecture. Also close to it there are many places to see . Also you can sit quietly and find peace.
The Alþingi ; Icelandic for 'general meeting'), anglicised as Althingi or Althing, is the supreme national parliament of Iceland. It is one of the oldest surviving parliaments in the world.The Althing was founded in 930 at Þingvellir ('thing fields' or 'assembly fields'), about 45 kilometres (28 mi) east of what later became the country's capital, Reykjavík. After Iceland's union with Norway in 1262, the Althing lost its legislative power, which was not restored until 1903 when Iceland gained Home Rule from Denmark. For 641 years, the Althing did not serve as the parliament of Iceland; ultimate power rested with the Norwegian, and subsequently the Danish throne.Even after Iceland's union with Norway in 1262, the Althing still held its sessions at Þingvellir until 1800, when it was discontinued. It was restored in 1844 by royal decree and moved to Reykjavík.The restored unicameral legislature first came together in 1845 and after 1874 operated in two chambers with an additional third chamber taking on a greater role as the decades passed until 1991 when Althing became once again unicameral. The present parliament building, the Alþingishús, was built in 1881, made of hewn Icelandic stone. The unicameral parliament has 63 members, and is elected every four years based on party-list proportional representation.The current speaker of the Althing is Birgir Ármannsson."
Arijit Das
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alþingi Parliament House is centrally located in Reykjavik, making it easily accessible by foot from most downtown hotels and attractions. It's a short walk from Hallgrímskirkja church. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops nearby.
Street parking is available in the vicinity, but it can be limited and metered. It's often easier to walk or use public transport due to the central location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Alþingi Parliament House and its visitor center is free. However, tours may require advance registration.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official Alþingi website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on visitor access and tour availability.
Yes, you can tour the inside of the Icelandic Parliament. The visitor center offers insights into its history, and guided or self-guided tours of the building are often available. Registration might be necessary.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can see the main debating chamber, learn about the parliament's history in the visitor center, and experience unique installations like the 'speaking rock.'
The visitor center and interactive exhibits can be engaging for children, offering a glimpse into Icelandic governance and history in a digestible format.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the Alþingi Parliament House, allowing you to capture its unique architecture and historical significance.
The Alþingi is one of the world's oldest surviving parliaments, founded in 930 AD. It played a crucial role in Icelandic history and governance, even during periods of foreign rule.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there are no dining facilities directly within the Alþingi Parliament House itself. However, numerous cafes and restaurants are located in the surrounding Reykjavik city center.
The area around the Alþingi Parliament House is bustling with dining options, from traditional Icelandic cuisine to international fare. You'll find many choices within a short walking distance.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the 19th-century building offers a unique architectural contrast to modern Reykjavik. Inside, the debating chamber and the 'speaking rock' installation are popular photo subjects.
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos and videos inside the Alþingi Parliament House, allowing you to document your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Its central Reykjavik location means it can easily be combined with other family-friendly activities without requiring extensive travel. The building's modest size also means children won't get overwhelmed by vast spaces, and the opportunity to see a real parliament in session (or learn about it) can spark curiosity about civics and history.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk around Reykjavik's city center, as the parliament is centrally located and easily accessible on foot. This makes it a perfect addition to a day of exploring the capital without needing to spend on transportation or admission fees.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Icelandic Governance
Visitors can explore the visitor center museum, which offers a comprehensive look at the Alþingi's rich history, from its ancient origins to its restoration and evolution into the modern unicameral legislature it is today. The museum provides context for the building's significance and the democratic traditions it upholds.
One of the unique features inside is the 'speaking rock' installation. This interactive artwork symbolizes the parliament's connection to its people, reacting to movement and reciting historical phrases. It's a modern touch that highlights the ongoing dialogue between the government and citizens, making the visit both educational and engaging.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Insights
Photography is permitted inside, allowing visitors to capture the unique atmosphere of the debating chamber and the historical exhibits. The building itself, a 19th-century structure, offers a distinct architectural style that contrasts with some of Reykjavik's more modern buildings. Its compact nature means a visit is typically not time-consuming, making it an ideal stop for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of Iceland's political heritage without a significant time commitment.
For those interested in the historical context, the visitor center museum provides invaluable information. It details the Alþingi's long and complex history, including its periods of dormancy and restoration. This background enriches the experience of seeing the parliament in its current form, offering a tangible connection to centuries of Icelandic governance.
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