Garðar, Archaeological site and lost Roman Catholic diocese in Kujalleq, Greenland
Garðar is an archaeological site featuring stone foundations of a medieval church complex and residential buildings along the Greenlandic coast. The remains reveal the layout of what was once a bishop's settlement spread across the coastal landscape.
From the 12th to 15th century, this place served as a center of Christian administration in Greenlandic settlements and held a bishop's seat. The settlement eventually faded as contact with the outside world grew more difficult.
The site shows traces of Norse settlers and local traditions meeting through pottery, tools, and objects left behind over centuries. Visitors can see how different groups shaped this place through their everyday crafts and practices.
The site lies in a remote location and requires advance planning to visit, as specialized transportation is necessary. Visitors should arrange local guides and prepare for harsh weather and difficult terrain.
This place was once the northernmost medieval bishopric in North America, showing how far European civilization extended at that time. Norse building methods and stone architecture were adapted to survive extreme Arctic conditions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
