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Ancient Homes of Iceland: Turf-Roofed Houses Preserving History

In 1910, a significant portion, roughly half of Iceland's populace, resided in homes made of turf due to the country's scarcity of timber. These turf structures, characterized by thick walls, were beneficial as insulation against the cold climate.

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Despite the absence of sufficient timber in Iceland, the construction of residences using turf...
Despite the absence of sufficient timber in Iceland, the construction of residences using turf remained prevalent. The insulating properties of this material proved beneficial, offering a substantial barrier against the country's chilly climate.

Ancient Homes of Iceland: Turf-Roofed Houses Preserving History

Exploring Iceland's Charm Through Its Historic Turf Houses

Step into another world as you admire the quaint turf houses that dot the landscapes of Iceland. Given the country's scarcity of trees, turf became a popular construction material, and these thick-walled houses provided excellent insulation against the harsh cold. In the early 20th century, turf houses were a common sight throughout Iceland, with half of its population residing in them in 1910.

As Reykjavik expanded and modernization swept across the nation, the number of turf houses dwindled. By the 1960s, only 234 such houses remained inhabited. Most of these are now under the care of Þjóðminjasafn Íslands, Iceland's National Museum, which houses them in the National Museum's Historic Buildings Collection at Árbæjarsafn in Reykjavik.

However, there remains a small number of superbly preserved turf houses scattered around the island. Many of these have been repurposed as museums, offering an intriguing look into Iceland's not-so-distant past.

Let's delve into some of these captivating institutions:

  1. Arbaer Turf House, located in Reykjavik, is a significant piece of the city's history, tracing its transformation from a rural village to its present status as the capital. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of Reykjavik[1].
  2. Laufas Turf Museum, nestled near Akureyri, presents a picturesque scene and an insightful journey into traditional Icelandic life. Its turf houses offer an immersive experience, transporting visitors to a bygone era[4].
  3. Keldur Farm, situated near Hvolsvöllur, offers a unique blend of historical enlightenment and local hospitality. Visitors can explore the traditional turf house while enjoying some authentic Icelandic experiences[5].

These museums not only preserve the architectural heritage of turf houses but also offer engaging educational experiences for those eager to delve deeper into Iceland's history and culture. Don't miss the chance to step back in time and immerse yourself in Iceland's rich heritage when you visit these captivating museums.

[1] Modern History and Traditions in Arbaer Museum: https://arbær.is/en/museum/[4] Laufas Turf Museum: https://www.laufas.is/[5] Keldur Farm: https://www.keldur.is/english/

News about the captivating Laufas Turf Museum, nestled near Akureyri, reveals it as a great destination for those interested in authentic Icelandic lifestyle and history, offering an immersive experience into a bygone era. The National Museum's Historic Buildings Collection, housed at Árbæjarsafn in Reykjavik, includes several preserved turf houses, like the Arbaer Turf House, showcasing the evolution of Reykjavik.

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