Photo: Faroephoto

Kirkjubøur

Kirkjubøur is among the oldest villages in the Faroe Islands and certainly one of the most historical. 

With the bishopric located in the village of Kirkjubøur it used to be the center of all religious and cultural activity in the country. The conditions of the village have also been very well fit for residence. It is located in a place where a great deal of flotsam has drifted ashore and with a great track of the sun the land is fertile. The village has sometimes been larger than it is today and with the perk of being located in the middle of the country it has also been one of the most valuable villages in the country.
The historical kings farm, which is the largest in the Faroe Islands, has been in the same family since the middle of the 16th century with its distinctive and charming houses. Not to forget the century old log house and roykstova (front room without a board ceiling, where the hearth was situated and with a smoke hole in the roof ridge. The roykstova served as kitchen, workroom, living room, and as sleeping quarters).
The most famous Faroese monument is the old cathedral (St. Magnus Cathedral) wall in Kirkjubø that has its own remarkable story. And yet the current parish church in Kirkjubø is even older and is the oldest church in the Faroe Islands.

Click here to see a map with an overview over historical sites and other places of interest in Kirkjubøur. Click on the pins to read more about the sites.

HISTORICAL SITES

HIKING IN KIRKJUBØ

The walk from Tórshavn to Kirkjubø is relatively easy. Please read the sign at the beginning of the route. Also have a look at the guide to safe hiking and otherwise respect the nature and the locals.

See a full description of the route and download gpx files here

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

How to get to Kirkjubø

There are several ways to get to Kirkjubøur, you can take the mountain road and walk or you can take the local bus or car.