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Kirkjubøur: Faroe Islands' Historical Heart

Discover Kirkjubøur: A historical Faroese village with medieval ruins, an ancient church, and the world's oldest wooden house.

Kirkjubøur, located on Streymoy Island, is the Faroe Islands' most significant historical site. It's a short drive from Tórshavn and features medieval ruins, an ancient church, and the world's oldest inhabited wooden house, offering a glimpse into the islands' rich past.

A brief summary to Kirkjubøur

  • Kirkjubøur, FO

Local tips

  • Wear layers, as the weather in Kirkjubøur, like the rest of the Faroe Islands, can be unpredictable.
  • Respect the privacy of residents, as some historical houses, including Kirkjubøargarður, are still family homes.
  • Take the free red bus from Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur for an economical and convenient way to reach the village.
  • Consider hiking from Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur along the scenic coastal path for stunning views of the surrounding islands.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Tórshavn, take the free red bus route 5 (weekdays) or route 7 (Saturdays) to Kirkjubøur. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes. The buses depart from Steinatún bus terminal in Tórshavn. This service is free.

  • Driving

    From Tórshavn, follow Route 12 south for approximately 11 kilometers (a 15-minute drive). Turn off towards Kirkjubøur; the route is well-signposted. Free parking is available near the bus stop. There are no tolls on this route.

  • Walking

    A scenic 6-kilometer hike from Tórshavn to Kirkjubøur takes approximately 2-3 hours. Begin at the junction of Landavegur and Velbastaðvegur. Follow the path down to the Sandá river, then up towards the farm where the trail to Kirkjubøur officially starts. The trail offers views of Nólsoy, Koltur, Hestur, Sandoy, and Vágar islands.

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Discover more about Kirkjubøur

Kirkjubøur, nestled on the southern coast of Streymoy Island, stands as the historical and cultural nucleus of the Faroe Islands. This charming village, a mere 15-minute drive from the capital, Tórshavn, offers a captivating journey through time. Kirkjubøur's significance dates back to the Middle Ages when it served as the episcopal residence and spiritual center of the Faroese society. The village boasts a remarkable collection of historical treasures, including the ruins of the Magnus Cathedral, a towering stone skeleton from the 13th century. Though never completed, its Gothic architecture hints at its intended grandeur. Adjacent to the cathedral stands Saint Olav's Church (Olavskirkjan), a modest yet venerable stone church dating back to around 1250. This church has served as the Faroe's spiritual heart for nearly a millennium and remains active today. Completing this historical trifecta is Kirkjubøargarður, also known as Roykstovan, an 11th-century farmhouse believed to be one of the oldest inhabited wooden houses in the world. This remarkable structure has been home to the same family for 17 generations, offering a unique glimpse into Faroese life through the ages. Visitors can explore the village's historical sites, wander along the coastline, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Kirkjubøur provides a fascinating window into the Faroe Islands' past and a deeper appreciation for its unique cultural heritage.

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