Historic houses
Church at Saurbær
The turf church at Saurbær, Saurbæjarkirkja, was constructed in 1858 by the master builder Ólafur Briem, who studied carpentry in Copenhagen in the early 19th century.
Ólafur, renowned in the region for his carpentry skills, also designed notable structures such as Hólakirkja in Eyjafjörður and Gilsstofa, now located at Glaumbær in Skagafjörður.
The architectural detailing of the church reveals influences from classical building styles encountered by Ólafur during his time in Denmark.
The turf church stands out as one of the few preserved turf churches and is the largest among them. It remains a parish church to this day.
The Church at Saurbær has been under the custody of the National Museum of Iceland since 1962, and extensive renovations were carried out shortly before. Guests are welcome at their own responsibility. Please take care of the house and surroundings when visiting.