Kirkjubøur, Argir Travel Guide

Explore Kirkjubøur, the Faroe Islands' historical and cultural epicenter, featuring medieval ruins, ancient churches, and the oldest wooden house.

Kirkjubøur, located on the island of Streymoy, is the Faroe Islands' most significant historical site. Once the episcopal center, it features medieval ruins, a historic church, and the world's oldest inhabited wooden house, offering a glimpse into the islands' rich past.

A brief summary to Kirkjubøur

Kirkjubøur, FO

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kirkjubøur.

Take the free bus from Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur for an easy and budget-friendly journey.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the historical sites, as the terrain can be uneven.
Check the opening hours for Kirkjubøargarður in advance, as it is a private residence.
Consider hiking from Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur for stunning views of the surrounding islands.
Visit the new toilet building near the bus stop, which also has parking.

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Explore Kirkjubøur on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kirkjubøur, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

The easiest way to reach Kirkjubøur is by car from Tórshavn. The drive is approximately 15 minutes (11 kilometers). Follow Route 12 out of Tórshavn and take the well-marked turnoff towards Kirkjubøur. Parking is available near the bus station, a short walk from the main historical sites. Parking is free.
Public Transport

From Tórshavn, take the free bus route 5 (weekdays) or route 7 (Saturdays) to Kirkjubøur. The bus ride takes approximately 8 minutes from the city center. The bus stops in the heart of Kirkjubøur, near the historical sites.
Walking

A picturesque 6-kilometer hike from Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur takes about 2-3 hours. The trail starts at the junction where Landavegur and Velbastaðvegur meet. Follow the path down to the river Sandá, then head up towards the farm where the trail to Kirkjubøur officially starts. The hike offers sweeping views of the surrounding islands.

Discover more about Kirkjubøur

Kirkjubøur, nestled on the southern part of Streymoy Island, is a village steeped in Faroese history and culture. Just a 15-minute drive from Tórshavn, the capital, this small village was once the center of religious and cultural activity in the Faroe Islands.Kirkjubøur's history dates back to the Viking Age, with the village becoming the episcopal residence for the Diocese of the Faroe Islands in the 12th century. It served as the spiritual heart of the islands, boasting a priest school that was the sole educational institution until the Reformation in 1538. The village is believed to have had around 50 houses, though many were lost in a devastating storm in the 16th century.Today, Kirkjubøur is home to several significant historical landmarks. The Magnus Cathedral, though never completed, stands as a striking stone skeleton of medieval ambition. Construction began in the 1300s, intended to create the largest church in the Faroe Islands. St. Olav's Church, built around 1250, is the oldest church in the Faroe Islands still in use. Archaeological excavations have revealed that the site has been used since the earliest days of Christianity in the Faroe Islands. Kirkjubøargarður, also known as the King's Farm, is one of the oldest still-inhabited wooden houses in the world, with an unbroken line of occupancy stretching back over 900 years. It has been home to the Patursson family for 17 generations since 1550.Visitors can explore these historical sites, wander through the village's charming houses, and imagine life in the Faroe Islands centuries ago. Kirkjubøur offers a unique opportunity to connect with the islands' past and appreciate the enduring spirit of the Faroese people.