Region
Northwest Iceland
Hjaltadalur valley, Skagafjörður
Hólar Iceland: Historic Bishop's Seat & Medieval Cathedral Guide
Iceland's historic northern bishop's seat—a center of faith, learning, and culture for nearly 700 years.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~100
Northwest Iceland • Historic site
Hólar in Hjaltadalur valley was the episcopal seat of northern Iceland from 1106 until 1798. This small but historically significant settlement features a medieval cathedral, university college, and continues Iceland's educational tradition that began here with the first printing press in 1530.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Hólar remains an important educational and cultural heritage site in Iceland.
Sources to check
Population
~100
University and heritage site
Known for
Bishop's Seat
1106-1798 religious center
Top Attractions at Hólar
Hólar Cathedral
Historic church with Iceland's oldest bell (1200)
Hólar University College
Specializing in equine and aquaculture studies
Historic Grounds
Site of first Icelandic printing press (1530)
Hjaltadalur Valley
Beautiful mountain-surrounded valley
Horse Breeding Center
University equine science facilities
Glaumbær Museum
Historic turf farm, 20 km south
How to Get to Hólar
From Akureyri: 1 hour 20 minutes via Route 1 west and Route 76 north. From Varmahlíð: About 30 minutes via Route 76. A rental car is recommended as public transport is limited.
Best Time to Visit Hólar
Summer (June-August) offers the best access and weather. The cathedral is open for visits during summer months. Winter visits may be limited by road conditions.
Planning help
Hólar FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.