The Parliament of Iceland

The Icelandic Parliament

The Reykjavik audio-guided tour stops you before the seat of the Icelandic Parliament, the Althing, one of the major public buildings of the capital. Its grey dolerite stone and its thousand-year-old history make it a monument apart in the city's landscape.

One of the oldest parliaments in the world

One must distinguish the institution from its seat: while the building is more recent, the Althing itself was founded in the year 930 at Thingvellir, which makes it one of the oldest parliaments in the world. Originally, the island's chiefs gathered there in the open air to dispense justice and make major decisions. Parliament now has sixty-eight seats and sits in one of the smallest parliamentary buildings in Europe.

What there is to see

The grey stone building, plain and dignified, stands on Austurvollur square, one of the most popular in Reykjavik, facing the statue of Jon Sigurdsson. Its history, going back to the time of the Vikings and the natural site of Thingvellir, makes it a powerful symbol of Icelandic democracy and the continuity of the nation.

Practical information

The Icelandic Parliament is on Austurvollur square, in the centre of Reykjavik. Its facade can be seen freely from the square. As an active institution, interior access may be subject to conditions or guided visits; it is best to check in advance.

When was the Icelandic Parliament founded ?

The Althing was founded in the year 930 at Thingvellir, which makes it one of the oldest parliaments in the world.

Where is the seat of Parliament ?

It is on Austurvollur square, in the heart of Reykjavik, facing the statue of Jon Sigurdsson.