Tucked away in the heart of Reykjavik, Iceland lies a stunning concert hall that embodies the city’s unique blend of modernity and natural beauty. As we delve into the world of Harpa Concert Hall, get ready to unravel its secrets, history, and cultural significance.
A Brief History: The Evolution of Harpa Concert Hall
The story of Harpa begins in 2007, when a former financial-commercial area was abandoned due to Iceland’s economic crisis. It wasn’t until 2010 that the construction resumed under the guidance of Danish studio Henning Larsen and Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson. After several setbacks, the project finally opened its doors on May 4th, featuring the Iceland Symphony Orchestra.
A Marvel of Modern Design
Harpa Concert Hall is an architectural masterpiece that combines stainless steel and colorful geometric windows inspired by Iceland’s Basaltic landscape. The building boasts an impressive 28,000 sqm space with a height of 43 meters, making it a breathtaking sight to behold.
The unique design of Harpa has been widely praised for its innovative use of materials and its ability to blend seamlessly into the surrounding environment. The building’s sleek and modern aesthetic is reflected in its use of stainless steel and glass, which provides an unparalleled view of the Reykjavik harbor and the surrounding mountains.
Exploring the Facilities
As you step inside Harpa, you’ll discover a variety of facilities that cater to different tastes and preferences:
- A store selling European design products
- Two tour operators offering activities based on the building’s diverse team
- A restaurant-café for lunch
- A bar-restaurant for dinner and evening drinks
- An elegant gift shop featuring books, flowers, and other items
Eight Unique Spaces: The Heart of Harpa
The main structure of Harpa features eight main spaces, each designed to adapt to various types of music, conferences, and events:
- Eldborg: A world-class location with acoustic technology that adapts to all types of music, conferences, and events. Capacity: 1800 people.
- Björtuloft (or Bright Lofts): A sunny area on the top floor offering breathtaking views of Reykjavik, the sea, and Mount Esja. Suitable for private dinners, business meetings, and booked events. Total area: 400 sqm, capacity: 200 people inside + 300 outside.
- Meeting Rooms: Harpa has a wide range of conference rooms, including Ríma, which can also be divided into two parts. Each room offers the necessary technology for all types of conferences.
- Háaloft: An impressive hall on the eighth floor offering panoramic views of Reykjavik, the port, and the surrounding mountains. Nicknamed “Reykjavik’s Little Roof,” this space features 200 sqm, enormous screens, and a bar. Capacity: 500 people.
- Kaldalón: The smallest room in Harpa, suitable for all types of events, conferences, concerts, meetings. With a sloping stage seating 195 people, it can be used as a platform for various occasions.
- Norðurljós: A hall that can accommodate small concerts and various performances with its personalized lighting system and capacity of 520 people.
- Silfurberg: The conference room par excellence, named after a rare Icelandic crystal, seating 840 people, featuring movable palaces and fully adaptable acoustics for any events.
- Flói, Eyri, Hörpuhorn, Norðurbryggju: Various areas of reception and exhibitions spaces ranging from 300 to 1000 sqm suitable for small and large events.
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Getting There: A Convenient Journey
Harpa Concert Hall is easily accessible by:
- Walking (900 meters away from Reykjavik City Hall)
- Bus (take the bus number 12 or 13 every 15 minutes to arrive within 5 minutes)
- Car (follow Vonarstræti and Lækjargata, then turn onto Ingólfsgarður and park in front of Harpa)
Useful Tips for Visiting Attraction
To make the most out of your visit:
- Buy a Reykjavik City Card Fundamentally to have all the information and possible discounts
- Minimum Time: Spend at least two hours exploring Harpa, including an optional guided tour under 1 hour and a stop at various shops and restaurants.
Brief Historical Notes, Curiosities, and Practical Information
Harpa Concert Hall has become a symbol of Reykjavik and has been featured as a filming location for international TV series. As you explore the building, keep in mind its fascinating history and the stories behind its design.
Q: What is Harpa Concert Hall?
A: Harpa Concert Hall is a modern concert hall and conference center located in Reykjavik, Iceland.
Q: When was Harpa built?
A: The construction of Harpa began in 2007, but resumed in 2010 after several setbacks.
Q: How many spaces does Harpa have?
A: Harpa features eight main spaces, each designed to adapt to various types of music, conferences, and events.
Q: What is the name of the conference room par excellence?
A: The conference room par excellence is named Silfurberg, named after a rare Icelandic crystal.
Q: How do I get to Harpa Concert Hall?
A: You can walk (900 meters away from Reykjavik City Hall), take the bus number 12 or 13 every 15 minutes, or drive following Vonarstræti and Lækjargata.
Q: What is a good way to spend time at Harpa?
A: Spend at least two hours exploring Harpa, including an optional guided tour under 1 hour and a stop at various shops and restaurants.
