The Sagnheimar Folks Museum, Byggðasafn Vestmannaeyja in Icelandic, is often known as the Folks Museum of Vestmannaeyjar. It is a hands-on, trendy museum that is a must-visit for these within the tradition and historical past of Heimaey Island.
Sagnheimar’s everlasting and short-term displays showcase the island’s wealthy cultural heritage and important occasions. They function various images, multimedia shows, and historic artifacts resembling furnishings, clothes, and instruments.
Fantastically organized in a well-designed constructing, the museum presents an enticing expertise for guests of all ages. Whereas youngsters enjoyment of dressing up in pirate costumes and embarking on treasure hunts within the pirate cave, adults can immerse themselves in intriguing displays protecting each side of the island’s historical past.
Vacationers can rent a car and go to Heimaey Island and the Sagnheimar Folks Museum independently. Common ferry providers join the island with the Landeyjahofn port on Iceland’s South Coast.
Westman Islands tours may additionally embrace a go to to the Sagnheimar Folks Museum, and private tours provide probably the most versatile itineraries. Strive this private and all-inclusive 10.5-hour tour of the Westman Islands from Reykjavik or this customizable 2-hour private tour of Heimaey with a local expert for an opportunity to go to Sagnheimar.
Picture from the Sagnheimar Folk Museum Facebook page. No edits made
Sagnheimar Folks Museum Location and Find out how to Get There
The Sagnheimar Folks Museum is on the second ground in the identical constructing because the Vestmannaeyjabaer library. It is on the north finish of the city, near the harbor, on Heimaey Island.
The museum is roughly 656 yards (600 meters) from the port of Vestmannaeyjar. From the port, head down Strandvegur street and switch onto Kirkjuvegur street. Flip proper after Stakkagerdi park, and you will find the Sagnheimar Folks Museum on the left-hand aspect subsequent to the city council constructing.
Sagnheimar Folks Museum Displays
The Sagnheimar Folks Museum has a number of everlasting and smaller short-term displays providing fascinating insights into the entire historical past of the Westman Islands.
The museum’s key displays are outlined under.
The Heimaey Eruption
The 1973 Heimaey eruption was a violent occasion that prompted widespread destruction within the Westman Islands. This museum exhibit has artifacts and firsthand accounts, providing guests a transparent perception into the group’s response to the catastrophe.
The Annual Vestmannaeyjar Pageant
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Thjodhatid is an annual music and tradition competition within the Westman Islands. Guests can sit in a pattern competition tent like those Icelanders use at this celebration every year.
The Algerian Pirate Raid
The Algerian pirate raid exhibition vividly recounts the 1627 occasion when 242 islanders have been captured and bought into slavery in Algeria. By way of a caricature-style mural and interactive pirate cave, guests acquire perception into the harrowing experiences of the victims and the ruthless nature of piracy in that period.
Lives of Native Ladies
The museum focuses on the pivotal position of the native ladies of Heimaey. It showcases their contributions to drugs, artwork, and handicrafts, emphasizing their profound affect on the area people.
Icelandic Mormons
The museum options an exhibit detailing the historical past of Icelandic Mormons, highlighting the pioneering efforts of people like Thorarinn Haflidason and Gudmundur Gudmundsson. This exhibit sheds gentle on the journey and legacy of those pioneers.
The Life and Music of Oddgeir Kristjansson
Dive into Oddgeir Kristjansson’s life and music with an exhibit celebrating his inventive journey and contributions. Guests can discover his musical legacy and affect on the native music scene.
Icelandic Chook Assortment
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The museum has a outstanding chook assortment, together with uncommon puffin specimens caught and meticulously preserved by Olafur Tryggvason.
Captain Kohl and the Military
The folks of Heimaey as soon as had their very own military led by Danish commissioner Captain Kohl. He performed an energetic position within the troopers’ lives, instructing traditions, organizing sports activities, and establishing Flag Day celebrations within the Herjolfsdalur valley, now a cherished annual occasion for households on the island.
Dock and Harbor Space of Heimaey
Uncover Heimaey’s vibrant harbor and dock space throughout the exhibit corridor, which highlights fishing and the processing of catches. Hearken to gripping narratives of sea life and tales of heroism on the previous radio middle. Discover reconstructions of an previous bait shack, fish manufacturing facility dormitory, and looking cabin, reflecting the wealthy historical past of native cliff hunters.
Sights Close to the Sagnheimar Folks Museum
Guests will discover many desirable websites close to the Sagnheimar Folks Museum. Heimaey is wealthy in pure and cultural points of interest, so you will not run out of issues to do within the space.
Close by, the Beluga Whale Sanctuary presents a peaceable sanctuary for rescued beluga whales and gives a singular alternative to study marine conservation efforts. It’s simply 656 yards (600 meters) from Sagnheimar.
Eldheimar Museum, 984 yards (900 meters) away, immerses guests within the dramatic occasions of the 1973 Eldfell volcano eruption by way of artifacts and private narratives. The museum presents compelling insights into the island’s resilience and restoration.
Stafkirkjan, a picturesque picket church close to the harbor, beckons guests to discover Heimaey’s cultural heritage and bask within the tranquility of its environment.
The scenic Herjolfsdalur valley is only one mile (1.6 kilometers) from the Sagnheimar Folks Museum. It awaits nature fans with its mountaineering trails and breathtaking vistas, offering a serene escape amidst the island’s rugged magnificence.
Lastly, the towering Eldfell volcano presents adventurous hikers the prospect to ascend its slopes and marvel at panoramic views of Heimaey and its surrounding archipelago. Climbing this inactive volcano gives a glimpse into the island’s geological historical past.
