The Nordic House: A Faroese Cultural Gem

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Discover Faroese and Nordic culture at the Nordic House in Tórshavn, a unique architectural landmark hosting diverse events and exhibitions.

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The Nordic House

The Nordic House in Tórshavn is a vibrant cultural center promoting both Faroese and Nordic culture. Its unique architecture, resembling an enchanting hill of elves, hosts diverse events, exhibitions, and a cozy café, making it a must-visit for tourists and locals alike.

A brief summary to The Nordic House

14 Norðari Ringvegur, Tórshavn, 100, FO
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 12 pm-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Check the Nordic House's official website for the latest event calendar to catch special exhibitions, concerts, or film screenings.
Visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the exhibitions and cultural events.
Don't miss the café's daily specials for a taste of local Faroese cuisine while enjoying scenic views.

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Getting There

Walking

The Nordic House is located a short walk from the city center of Tórshavn. From Vágsbotnur harbor, walk north along Norðari Ringvegur for approximately 15 minutes. The Nordic House will be on your left, easily recognizable by its distinctive grass roof.
Public Transport

Tórshavn's red city buses (Bussleiðin) provide free transport within the city. Several bus routes stop near the Nordic House. Check the local bus schedule for the most convenient route and stop. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Nordic House.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Tórshavn. A taxi from the city center to the Nordic House will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 80-120 DKK for the ride. Taxi stands are located near the harbor and in the city center.
Driving

If driving, follow Norðari Ringvegur towards the northern part of Tórshavn. The Nordic House will be on your left. Parking is free in Tórshavn, but time limits may apply in the city center. Parking discs are required and can be obtained for free at banks and tourist centers. Be aware of parking restrictions, especially on weekdays and Saturdays. There are several parking lots within walking distance of the Nordic House.

Discover more about The Nordic House

The Nordic House in Tórshavn stands as a testament to Nordic collaboration and Faroese cultural identity. Opened in 1983, this cultural center was designed by Norwegian architect Ola Steen and Icelandic architect Kolbrún Ragnarsdóttir, who won a Nordic competition in 1977 with their folklore-inspired design. The building itself is a work of art, constructed with materials from all Nordic countries: Norwegian slate, Swedish pine, Danish ash, and Finnish birch. The exterior features a grass roof, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape and evoking the image of an enchanting hill of elves. The Nordic House's primary mission is to showcase Nordic art and culture in the Faroe Islands and to promote Faroese art and culture throughout the Nordic region. It hosts a wide array of events, including music performances, literature festivals, visual arts exhibitions, film screenings, and conferences. With approximately 400 events each year, the Nordic House attracts around 120,000 visitors annually. The building includes a main hall (Høllin) that can seat up to 380 people, an amphitheater (Klingran) with 173 seats, and other versatile spaces. Visitors can explore rotating art exhibitions, showcasing both local and international artists. The Nordic House also features a café, Systrar, where guests can relax and enjoy refreshments while taking in the stunning views. The Lobby offers a space to relax, work, or enjoy a meal, surrounded by Nordic newspapers and children's books. The Nordic House serves as a vital gathering place, fostering connections and promoting cultural exchange within the Faroe Islands and the broader Nordic region.