The Cathedral of Christ the King (Landakotskirkja, also known as Basilika Krists Konungs) is a stately cathedral in western Reykjavík. Sanctified in 1929 near the site of Iceland’s first Catholic chapel, the Cathedral of Christ the King is a stunning monument and active place of worship. Admire the cathedral’s striking architecture and stroll around its picturesque grounds. Wander inside the impressive building to find beautiful altars, finely crafted artworks and fascinating relics.
Catholic worship at the original Landakot site began with the small chapel built by Iceland’s first Catholic priests in 1864. After World War I, a larger cathedral was required to support the faith’s growing population in Iceland. Wander around the Landakotskirkja grounds to view the cathedral’s soaring gray-stone façade and flat-topped tower, designed by Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson. If the sun is shining, you’ll catch the light gleaming on the pale stone and through opalescent stained-glass windows.
Enter the cathedral to see the aisle, nave, altars and high altar, all of which are richly decorated in beautiful relics and gifts to the church. See a beautifully carved cedar statue of Christ from Barcelona, as well as the Stations of the Cross from Bavaria. The left aisle shows Saint Thorlac, the patron saint of Iceland. Admire the cathedral’s many columns and candlelit altars.
Join a celebration of Mass most days of the week in the morning and evening. English-spoken Mass is held on Sundays. Casual visits to the cathedral during Mass sessions are not permitted, but the cathedral is open daily from early morning until evening.
The cathedral is located in western Reykjavík, near the downtown area and harbor. The nearest bus stop is Ráðhúsið, the station that serves Reykjavík City Hall. Enter the cathedral for free. Combine your trip to the Cathedral of Christ the King with a stroll along the harbor and the Sculpture and Shore Walk or the green spaces of Austurvöllur and Reykjavík City Hall.
