The Settlement Exhibition celebrates 20 years
The public is invited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Settlement Exhibition at Aðalstræti 16 on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free, and everyone is warmly welcome.
The day features a diverse program for all ages, combining history, play, and education in a lively, engaging setting. Visitors can join creative workshops, take educational guided tours, and play exciting games—and even meet Vikings and discover ancient customs.
Program
10 a.m.–2 p.m. – Craft workshop and costume corner
10 a.m.–5 p.m. – Family scavenger hunt
1–2 p.m. – Guided tour with Orri Vésteinsson, professor of archaeology at the University of Iceland
1–4 p.m. – Vikings from Rimmugýgur make an appearance
2–3 p.m. – Long table: Were we Vikings?
- Guðrún Dröfn Whitehead, assistant professor of museum studies at the University of Iceland
- Terry Gunnell, professor emeritus at the University of Iceland
- Jökull Tandri Ámundason
- Guðbrandur Benediktsson, director of the Reykjavík City Museum
2–3 p.m. – Guided tour in easy Icelandic (for those learning the language)
3–5 p.m. – Fox-and-lambs (Halatafl) — Are you the fox or the lamb?
Halatafl is an ancient board game, likely of Nordic origin, where a single fox faces off against 13 lambs. The fox aims to capture the lambs, while the lambs work to surround the fox. Grettis saga and other historical sources reference the game.
Aðalstræti is accessible. Please note the exhibition hall surrounding the ruins features low lighting and uneven floors. Service animals are welcome.