Harpa, Concert hall in Reykjavík, Iceland
The façade is composed of 714 geometric glass panels equipped with LEDs that illuminate the building facing the port, creating a light display visible from various points in the city.
The construction of the building began in 2007 but was interrupted during the Icelandic financial crisis of 2008. The government then took over full funding to complete this project, which became a symbol of the country's economic reconstruction, and it opened in 2011.
The Iceland Symphony Orchestra, the Icelandic Opera, and the Reykjavík Big Band regularly perform in the Eldborg main hall, making this venue the center of Icelandic music life where Scandinavian traditions and contemporary works converge.
Guided tours allow visitors to explore the interior of the building every day. Several restaurants and a shop are accessible without a ticket. The programming varies between symphonic concerts, operas, jazz performances, and cultural events throughout the year.
Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson designed the glass façade to reproduce the basalt formations characteristic of Iceland, using natural light to create reflections that change according to the time of day and season.
Location: Reykjavík
Inception: 2011
Architects: Ólafur Elíasson
Official opening: May 13, 2011
Architectural style: contemporary architecture, high-tech architecture
Website: https://www.harpa.is/
Address: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík 101 Reykjavík
Opening Hours: Monday-Tuesday 10:00-18:00; Wednesday-Saturday 10:00-20:00; Sunday 10:00-18:00
Phone: +3545285050
Website: https://harpa.is
GPS coordinates: 64.15028,-21.93250
Latest update: November 20, 2025 16:31
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Iceland is truly a unique island! From its exceptional geographical location to the richness of its landscapes, here is a collection of major natural sites and iconic tourist attractions. This includes glaciers, beaches, fjords, and geothermal areas to explore enthusiastically.
Icelandic Phallological Museum
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Reykjavik Art Museum
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Culture House
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National Theatre of Iceland
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Reykjavík Museum of Photography
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Arnarhóll
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Reykjavík Ingólfsgarði Lighthouse
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Reykjavík Norðurgarði Lighthouse
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Þúfa
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Hafnarhús
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National Theatre of Iceland
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Nullid
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Sr. Friðrik og drengurinn
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Hverfisgallerí
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Minør
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Vatnsberinn
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Hannes Hafstein
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King Christian IX of Denmark
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Sellóspilarinn
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Rætur
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Bæjarins beztu pylsur
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Facing the Sea
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Hafnarsaga
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Mural, Work of art
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Mural, Work of art
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Work of art, sculpture
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Work of art
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