Grenjaðarstaður in Aðaldalur
The turf farm at Grenjaðarstaður is one of the largest of its kind in Iceland and a prime example of turf architecture. Its impressive scale makes it a must-see for anyone traveling through North Iceland.
The current farm was largely built in the latter part of the 19th century, with walls primarily made from local lava rock, giving it a distinctive character among turf farms. It is believed that Árni Hallgrímsson from Garðsá, a renowned builder of his time, designed the main buildings, though less is known about the backhouses. The farm was considered the most majestic in the region, housing up to 30 people at its peak. It remained inhabited until 1949.
Since 1954, the National Museum of Iceland has overseen the farm, and it was soon restored to its original state, a process completed in 1958. However, the buildings, constructed from perishable materials, have required frequent repairs, as wear and tear set in quickly once they were no longer lived in.
Grenjaðarstaður was once one of the wealthiest church estates in the country. Before the Reformation, there was a church here dedicated to St. Martin. It possessed a fine altar cloth with 12 scenes depicting the life of the saint. The cloth is now in the Louvre Museum in Paris. The Þingeyri Cultural Centre manages Grenjaðarstaður. More information about admission fees and opening hours can be found on its website.