Alþingishúsið – Parliament House

Overview

Alþingishúsið is the modest basalt-stone building housing the Icelandic parliament, the Alþingi—one of the oldest parliamentary institutions in the world, originally established at Þingvellir in 930 AD.

Highlights

• Historical Significance: The Alþingi is the world's oldest surviving parliament, predating the English parliament by more than 250 years.
• Architecture: The dignified dark-stone neoclassical building dates from 1881, designed by Danish architect Ferdinand Meldahl.
• Austurvöllur Square: The pleasant square in front of the parliament, centred on a statue of independence hero Jón Sigurðsson.

History

The original Alþingi met at Þingvellir from 930 until 1798, when it was abolished by the Danish crown. It was re-established in Reykjavík in 1845 as an advisory body and gained full legislative power with Icelandic sovereignty in 1918 and independence in 1944.

Visitor Tips

• Duration: 10–20 minutes for the exterior and square.
• Tours: Parliament sessions are open to the public when in session; check the schedule online.
• Combine With: Reykjavík Cathedral and City Hall, both adjacent.