Parliament House Alþingi stands right in the center of Reykjavik and is more than just an important political institution in Iceland; it is also one of the most historic buildings within the country. In fact, Alþingi is Iceland's parliament, which many people believe to be the oldest in the world, since it was first established in Þingvellir National Park back in 930 AD. Nowadays, the Alþingi retains its position as a hotbed for Icelandic democracy in a historic building that has stood the test of time through centuries from its bygone era. Thus, many tourists in Reykjavik like to visit this cultural and political monument to observe its architecture, study its historical importance, and have a bit of contact with Iceland's proud democratic heritage.
Facts & Figures
The Alþingishús, Iceland Parliament House is a striking example of Iceland’s 19th century architecture style. Designed by Danish architect Ferdinand Meldahl [1], the building was erected in 1881 after the Alþingi had been reestablished, as a ceremonial venue for one of the oldest continuously running legislative bodies in history following some centuries under Danish rule. Constructed with hewn dolerite stone, the onyx-colored building stands out amidst neighboring Reykjavik buildings.
- Built: 1881
- Architect: Ferdinand Meldahl
- Style: Neoclassical
- Location: Reykjavík, Iceland
- Coordinates: 64.1476° N, 21.9398° W
- Function: Iceland's primary legislative building
- Original Meeting Place: Þingvellir National Park
- Distance from Reykjavik to Þingvellir: 40 kilometers (25 miles)
The parliament originally moved to Reykjavík in the 19th century, and the Alþingishús building has served as the seat of government ever since. The neoclassical architecture of the Parliament House is simple yet grand, reflecting Iceland's democratic values and rich history.
The World’s Oldest Parliament
The fact that Iceland's Althing is the world's oldest parliament says volumes about this country's democratic credentials. The Alþingi was established in 930 AD at Þingvellir [2], a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site to which Icelandic chieftains and leaders would annually congregate to make laws, settle disputes, and establish order in the early Icelandic Commonwealth. This system of governance was unique in medieval Europe and formed the foundation for what nowadays is referred to as parliamentary democracy.
For centuries, Þingvellir constituted the epicenter of Icelandic governance until the Alþingi was dissolved in 1800 and then reconstituted in 1845 as a legislative body under Danish rule [3]. This modern Alþingi has developed into a fully democratic institution representative of the will of the Icelandic people. Key legislation passed through this body includes the declaration of Iceland's independence from Denmark in 1944. Today, it is a one-chamber parliament of 63 elected members.
Visitors to the old Althingi site in Þingvellir can still see remains that seem to be from the original meeting place, a potent symbol of Iceland's commitment to democracy and the rule of law. Alþingi's rich history, coupled with its continued importance in modern governance, makes it an essential part of Iceland's identity.
Alþingi Today
Nowadays, the Alþingi Parliament House remains the centerpiece of Iceland's legislative activities, where all Icelandic lawmakers meet for debates, enactments, and legislation that shape the future of the country. The parliament is a unicameral system, with one legislative house of 63 members elected by popular vote every four years.
The building is a hub of Icelandic political life and a landmark of great cultural importance. Outside the Iceland Parliament House are several statues, including one of Jón Sigurðsson, the leader of Iceland's independence movement, and one of King Christian IX, who gave Iceland its constitution in 1874. These monuments commemorate important key figures of Icelandic political life and enrich the historical atmosphere of the place.
Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Alþingi Parliament House. It allows guests to get a behind-the-scenes look at a legislation process, as well as get closely acquainted with the architectural features of this building and historical artifacts stored inside. These tours are available for individual guests and groups alike, offering an experience of immense value and insight into Iceland's political system and historical significance.
For more information about visiting or taking a tour of Alþingi, visitors can check out the official website here.
Alþingi Location
Alþingi Parliament House is located in the very heart of downtown Reykjavik, just beside Austurvöllur Square, a favorite place where locals often gather. The square is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops; therefore, it’s a lively place, both for locals and tourists. The parliament building is within walking distance from several Reykjavik main attractions, such as Harpa Concert Hall, Tjörnin Lake, and Reykjavik City Hall.
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GPS Coordinates: 64°08'48.3"N 21°56'24.7"W
Whether you’re starting your day with a stroll around Tjörnin or ending it with a visit to the nearby Harpa Concert Hall, the Alþingi Parliament House is centrally located and easy to access.
How to Get to Alþingi Parliament House?
It’s easy to reach the Alþingi Parliament House, from Reykjavík city center. This building is located in downtown Reykjavik, close enough to most major attractions within the city on foot. Visitors can walk or take public transportation, as several bus routes pass through the area. Those driving may find parking close by, although it can be limited within the busy downtown area.
From Keflavík International Airport, it is about 45 minutes of driving into Reykjavik. Once in Reykjavik, simply head toward Austurvöllur Square, where the parliament building is prominently located.
Source
1. Alþingi. (n.d.). Um Alþingishúsið. Retrieved from https://www.althingi.is/um-althingi/fraedslu--og-kynningarefni/um-althingishusid/
2. Vísindavefurinn. (n.d.). Hvenær var Alþingi stofnað og hvar komu þingmenn saman? Retrieved from https://www.visindavefur.is/svar.php?id=5268
3. Alþingi. (n.d.). Alþingi: Upplýsingar um þingið og starf þess [PDF]. Retrieved from https://www.althingi.is/pdf/isl.pdf
