Húsið and Assistentahúsið at Eyrarbakki
Húsið (e. The House) was built in 1765, and Assistentahúsið (Assistance House) in 1881. In 1602, Eyrarbakki became one of the ports of the monopoly trade, and commerce thrived there, particularly in the latter part of the 19th century and into the early 20th century.
Before Húsið was built, Danish merchants only stayed in Iceland during the summer months. However, from the mid-18th century onwards, the trading company was granted permission to build residential houses near the trading harbours so that merchants could reside there year-round.
Originally, The House served as the residence of the trading manager and other staff of the Eyrarbakki trading post. Most residents of The House until 1919 were Danish. The House was prefabricated and brought to the country.
The Assistant's House served as the location of the Lefolii shop. It is a timber-framed structure. Previously, another building stood there, serving a similar purpose.
Both buildings have been under the care of the National Museum since 1992, and extensive renovations have been carried out on them.
Please visit Árnessýsla Heritage Museum's website for further information about visiting.
Before Húsið was built, Danish merchants only stayed in Iceland during the summer months. However, from the mid-18th century onwards, the trading company was granted permission to build residential houses near the trading harbours so that merchants could reside there year-round. Originally, The House served as the residence of the trading manager and other staff of the Eyrarbakki trading post. Most residents of The House until 1919 were Danish. The House was prefabricated and brought to the country. The Assistant's House served as the location of the Lefolii shop. It is a timber-framed structure. Previously, another building stood there, serving a similar purpose. Both buildings have been under the care of the National Museum since 1992, and extensive renovations have been carried out on them. The Árnessýsla Heritage Museum has been housed in the buildings since 1995. Please visit the museum’s website or further information about visiting.