The most beautiful building in Europe has been chosen. Extraordinary architecture inspired by mother nature
The most beautiful building in Europe? Hallgrímur Church in Reykjavík. This monumental church, inspired by Icelandic nature, not only impresses with its form, but also offers views that you will remember for the rest of your life.
Hallgrímur's Church in Reykjavík was voted the most beautiful building in Europe by the Time Out travel portal. Its shape resembles the basalt columns characteristic of the Icelandic landscape. Its tower has a viewing terrace from which you can admire the panorama of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- It is a living and flourishing church in the centre of Reykjavík. It is both a national monument, dedicated to Iceland's most famous religious poet, Hallgrímur Pétursson, and a parish church in the city centre, where parish life and musical activity are vibrant - we read on the building's official website.
Hallgrímur Church in Reykjavík / Unsplash - Karsten WinegeartHallgrímur's Church is the largest church in Iceland. At 74.5 m high, it is the second tallest building in Iceland, after Smáratorg 3.
What's more, it also houses the largest organ in the country. The church's design by architect Guðjón Samúelsson was approved in 1937. Construction lasted from 1945 to 1986.
Hallgrímur Church in Reykjavík / Unsplash - KirillThe church's mass is particularly noteworthy. The architect, who drew abundantly from Icelandic traditions in his designs, made a nod to it this time. When designing the church's façade, he based it on hexagonal basalt columns. These were to climb evenly on both sides, like monumental glaciers or Icelandic hills.
Hallgrímura Church in Reykjavík / Unsplash - Tobby ElliottArchitecture lovers may also be delighted by the somewhat austere interior, which is broken by stained glass windows placed in the church's central point. The main role is played by details, such as the baptismal font, the bowl of which is made of crystal and brings to mind a block of ice.
Hallgrímur Church in Reykjavík / Unsplash - Isaac SlomanHallgrímur's Church is not only attractive for its unusual appearance. It is one of the most visited buildings by tourists also because of the viewpoint located on its tower. There you can admire the panorama of Reykjavík and the nearby mountains.
