Frikirkjan Church Travel Guide

Frikirkjan Church, also known as the Free Church, is a religious institution in the heart of Reykjavik, Iceland.

You can visit the Frikirkjan Church on a self-drive tour of Iceland. Simply spend a few days in Reykjavik, and you'll have plenty of time to discover more about the city's food and culture. While there, a private city tour can be an excellent option to explore the sights with an expert guide.

The Frikirkjan Church, known as Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík in Icelandic, was founded in 1899 by a group of Icelandic Christians who wanted to create a church free from state control with a more liberal approach to theology.

Today, the Frikirkjan Church is known for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere and commitment to social justice and environmental issues. The church offers various services and programs, including Sunday worship, weddings, funerals, and community outreach initiatives.

The Free Church is a significant cultural landmark in Reykjavik and is visited by locals and tourists alike.

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Image from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by rheins. No edits made.

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Physical Features of the Frikirkjan Church

The church was consecrated in 1903 and was extended two years later by Rognvaldur Olafsson, an Icelandic architect. The church's physical features are an exciting blend of different architectural styles, making it a unique city landmark.

The exterior of the Frikirkjan Church features a distinctive white facade with a striking green bell tower and roof. The tower has an unusual shape, with a square base that transitions into an octagonal shape at the top. 

The interior of the Frikirkjan Church is equally impressive. The church has a large nave with high ceilings and windows that allow natural light to fill the space. There's also a large organ, considered one of the finest examples in Iceland.

The Frikirkjan Church's Early History

In the 19th century, Iceland was a Lutheran state with a strict religious establishment that monopolized religious affairs. Dissenters and religious minorities faced discrimination and exclusion from public life, and there was little room for alternative viewpoints within the dominant religious discourse.

This situation prompted a group of Icelandic Christians to come together and create a church that was free from state control and had a more liberal approach to theology. The founders of the Frikirkjan Church were inspired by the religious freedom and diversity they had witnessed during their travels in Europe and North America.

They believed Iceland should have a church open to people of all backgrounds and beliefs that rejected the narrow-mindedness and intolerance of the established Lutheran church.

The founding of the Frikirkjan Church was a significant moment in Icelandic history, as it marked the first time that a religious institution had been established in Iceland that was independent of the state.

The Frikirkjan Church became a symbol of religious freedom and diversity in Iceland, and it paved the way for other religious minorities and dissenters to organize and assert their rights.

Image from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Evelyn Paris. No edits made.

The Frikirkjan Church's Commitment to Inclusivity

The Frikirkjan Church's commitment to inclusivity is one of its defining characteristics. The church has a reputation for being a safe and accepting space for people of all backgrounds and identities, regardless of their religious beliefs.

The clergy and staff are trained to work with people from diverse backgrounds and to create an environment that is welcoming and supportive. The Frikirkjan Church's commitment to inclusivity extends beyond the church building.

The church is involved in various community outreach initiatives, including programs that serve refugees and immigrants, people experiencing homelessness, and those struggling with addiction or mental health issues.

The church is also active in promoting LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, and it works closely with other progressive organizations in Iceland to advance these causes.

Events at the Frikirkjan Church

In addition to acting as a space for religious worship, the Frikirkjan Church is a venue space that hosts concerts and events. Previously, musical acts like Sufjan Stevens and Daughter have performed at the church. 

The Iceland Noir literary festival also holds some of its headline events in the church.

Where Is the Frikirkjan Church?

The Frikirkjan Church is located in downtown Reykjavik, Iceland's capital city, on Frikirkjuvegur Street. It's on the bank of the scenic Tjornin Pond, making it a picturesque destination for visitors and locals. 

The church is only a short walk from popular attractions like Reykjavik City Hall and the National Museum of Iceland.

Other Attractions Near the Frikirkjan Church

The Frikirkjan Church is in the heart of Reykjavik, meaning there are plenty of attractions and things to do in the area. Here are some of the top attractions near the Frikirkjan Church.

Hallgrimskirkja Church

The iconic Hallgrimskirkja church is one of Reykjavik's most famous landmarks, just a few blocks from the Frikirkjan Church. It's a stunning piece of architecture and one of the tallest structures in the country. Visitors can take the elevator to the top for panoramic city views.

Reykjavik Art Museum

The Reykjavik Art Museum is in a beautiful building, once a harbor warehouse. It features contemporary art exhibits and has a beautiful sculpture garden outside.

The Sun Voyager

The famous Sun Voyager sculpture is on the waterfront, just a short walk from the Frikirkjan Church. It's a beautiful stainless steel sculpture representing a dream boat and is a popular photo spot.

Harpa Concert Hall

The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center is a stunning glass building on the waterfront and home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. It hosts concerts and events and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Reykjavik.

Laugavegur Shopping Street

Laugavegur is Reykjavik's main shopping street, just a few blocks from the Frikirkjan Church. It's a bustling road with plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants.