Attraction Guide: Kirkjubøargarður, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands

Kirkjubøargarður Guide

Kirkjubøargarður: A Journey Through Faroese History Guide

Kirkjubøargarður, also known as King's Farm, is a historic farm located in Kirkjubøur, just south of Tórshavn. It's one of the oldest wooden houses in the world still inhabited and a significant site for understanding Faroese history and culture. A visit here is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the Faroe Islands. Kirkjubøur was once the religious and cultural center of the Faroe Islands. The site was the Bishop's residence from the 11th century until the Reformation in the 16th century. The ruins of the Magnus Cathedral, begun around 1300 but never completed, stand as a testament to the ambitions of the church. The Roykstovan, the oldest part of Kirkjubøargarður, dates back to the 11th century and has been continuously inhabited by the same family for 17 generations. Tourists can explore the Roykstovan, marvel at its ancient timbers, and learn about the family's history. The unfinished Magnus Cathedral is also a must-see, offering a sense of the grandeur that was planned. The nearby St. Olav's Church, a medieval parish church, is still in use today. While Kirkjubøur doesn't have a specific culinary tradition unique to the site, you can find traditional Faroese food in nearby restaurants in Tórshavn. Try skerpikjøt (wind-dried mutton) or ræst kjøt (fermented mutton) for a taste of local flavors.