Reykjavík Museum - Arbaejarsafn

Arbaejarsafn was established by the City of Reykjavík, Iceland, in 1957 as an open-air museum to preserve and show selected old houses, in order to give visitors an opportunity to learn about the architecture and lifestyle of the past. The museum has been created around the old farm of Árbær. The farm is first mentioned in written records in 1464. The present farmhouse was built in 1880-1920. The museum church was originally built in 1842 in Skagafjörður, north Iceland. It was moved to the museum in 1959, and reconstructed in the following year.
Most of the houses at Árbæjarsafn - Reykjavík Museum originally stood in downtown Reykjavík.

The oldest is Smidshus (the Smith's House), built in 1820. Refreshments are served at Dillonshus (Dillon's House) which dates from 1835. It is named after an Irish lord who built it for his mistress, and mother of his child, Sire Ottesen. She ran a restaurant there.
The Árbæjarsafn exhibits offer something for everyone, providing insight into the life and work of past generations. Many houses dating from the 19th century have been furnished in the manner of the time, and several of the houses contain ateliers, such as a goldsmith's workshop and a printing press. The museum also has an old-fashioned sweet shop and a souvenir shop. Throughout the summer long-forgotten arts and skills are demonstrated by Icelanders who remember the old way of life. Regular museum events include Handicraft Days, Haymaking Days and an annual Christmas Exhibition.

Museum opening hours:
In June, July and August the museum is open Tuesday
to Friday 10:00 to 17:00, and 10:00 to 18:00 at weekends. On Mondays the farm and church of Árbær on the museum site are open 11:00 to 16:00.  At other times of year the museum is open by arrangement. Outside the summer season, guided tours of the museum are scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 13:00.

Guided tours for groups by arrangement.