Víðimýri Church in Skagafjörður

In the Age of the Sturlungs, there stood the ancient manor of chieftain Kolbeinn Tumason at Víðimýri. Most likely there has been a church at Víðimýri since the adoption of Christianity in Iceland. Víðimýrarkirkja has always served as a farmer's church, either owned by priests or farmers, and it remains a parish church to this day.

The interior of Víðimýri Church exemplifies the traditional seating arrangements in Icelandic churches following the Reformation: men on the south side of the aisle, women on the north. Gentlemen occupied the choir, while Gentlewomen had their own box pew.

Various ancient artifacts adorn the interior, some predating the current church. The altarpiece, dating back to 1616, is likely of Danish origin. It depicts the Last Supper, featuring an inscription from Corinthians: "For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come" (1 Corinthians 11:26). The pulpit likely dates back to the 17^thcentury and bears worn paintings of Christ and the Evangelists.

A plaque in a mahogany frame, located in the north of the chancel, commemorates Þorsteinn Jónsson (1754–1827) of Gilhagi and his wife Margrét Magnúsdóttir (1761–1828).

The church houses various items of 20^th-century origin, including chandeliers, a baptismal font, an altar frontal, and an altar cloth. Altar silver dates to the19^th and 20^th centuries. The lychgate was built in 1936. Two bells, cast in 1630, adorn the church.

Many ancient objects from Víðimýri Church are preserved in the National Museum of Iceland, which has been responsible for the church since 1936.

Please visit Skagafjörður Museum’swebsite for informationabout visiting hours and admission fees.