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In the late 19th century salted fish was to Iceland what oil is to Saudi Arabia. Every summer people would flock to small villages scattered by the coastline to work in the processing of salted fish for export. As years went by the salted fish became a representative of the nation’s path to prosperity and was even used for as Iceland's coat of arms until the beginning of the 20th century.

On the south side of the Reykjanes peninsula (just minutes away from the famous Blue Lagoon) lies the small fishing village Grindavík. Settled in the year 934 it has ever since been one of the main sources of salted fish in Iceland. Today Grindavík has approximately 2400 inhabitants, most of whom base their livelihoods on fishing and fishing-related industries.

Last year a museum dedicated to the history of the salt fish was opened to the public in Grindavík. It reflects brilliantly on the nations struggle for survival the old way of life as the history of the salt fish is indeed the history and the very essence of Iceland itself. The Icelandic Saltfish Museum in Grindavík offers visitors a unique view into the core of Icelandic culture and heritage.

The Icelandic Saltfish Museum in Grindavík (Hafnargata 12a, Grindavík) is open every day of the week from 11:00 to 18:00. The entrance fee is 500 ISK for adults and 250 ISK for children up to the age of 16. The museum can be contacted at (354) 420 1190 or with email

Only a 15 minutes drive from Keflavík Airport and 10 minutes from the Blue Lagoon.

Click here for a map of the museum