Old Icelandic Books

Eyþór, the passionate curator behind Old Icelandic Books, dedicates his life to rescuing and preserving Iceland’s literary treasures. With a collection of over 500 rare books, primarily Icelandic but with fascinating pieces from other regions, he ensures that these historical artifacts are not only safeguarded but also shared with the world. Eyþór employs meticulous restoration techniques, such as delicately washing the pages of centuries-old books, to breathe new life into these invaluable works. His commitment extends beyond preservation; he actively educates others about the cultural and historical significance of Iceland’s literary heritage. Eyþór’s work will take center stage in an upcoming exhibition this summer, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore Iceland’s rich literary past and appreciate the craftsmanship of book restoration.

Intimate Encounters with Icelandic Manuscripts: Engage with centuries-old manuscripts and rare books that contain some of Iceland's most beloved sagas, myths, and historical accounts. Held in exclusive, private settings such as Reykjavik’s Culture House or the Árni Magnússon Institute, these sessions offer rare access to authentic Icelandic texts that tell stories of Viking heroes, Norse gods, and Iceland’s early settlers.

Guided Tour of the Written Legacy: A personal literary guide, often a scholar of Old Norse literature, will guide you through Iceland’s written legacy, explaining the significance of each text and sharing insights into the lives, values, and beliefs of Iceland’s early inhabitants. This journey covers not only Viking tales but also Icelandic folklore, epic poems, and medieval chronicles.

Hands-On Experience with Ancient Bookbinding and Calligraphy: Dive into the artistry of book-making with a hands-on workshop on ancient Icelandic bookbinding techniques and traditional calligraphy. Learn how early Icelanders preserved their stories and gain an appreciation for the craftsmanship that made these books lasting treasures.

Exclusive Access to Private Collections: In collaboration with Iceland’s libraries and private collectors, guests can view select, rarely-seen manuscripts, letters, and documents, many of which have remained carefully preserved for generations. Discover how Iceland’s literary masterpieces have endured the test of time.

Special Reading Session with Icelandic Sagas and Poetry: Listen to passages from the Icelandic sagas or skaldic poetry, read aloud in Old Norse or modern Icelandic. This session captures the rhythm and intensity of the language as it would have been heard around Viking hearths centuries ago, bringing the written word to life.