- Address: Fjörutún, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland;
- Official page: reykjavik.i;
- Built: in 1909 year.
House Hovdi - perhaps the most famous house in Reykjavik . In the early 20th century, when he just moved to the capital of Iceland , he was recognized as the richest building in the city, and even compared to the French royal residence. And now, it is perfectly combined with the surrounding landscape, besides tourists are attracted by its historical value and stories about the dwelling in it.
History and general information
The appearance of this building in Reykjavik dates back to 1909, but it was built not in the territory of this icy country. The wooden building was transported from Norway, and it was intended specifically for the consul of France Brillouin, whom the French sent to deal with issues of fish trade between the two countries. They put the house without agreement with the authorities, and this caused their displeasure. Despite the fact that the locals called this house a palace, the French consul did not like him, and little less than four years later, he sold it to the famous lawyer and poet Einar Benediktsson.
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The second owner is associated with the appearance in the house of the cast - the White Lady. Allegedly, he brought her from another city, and since then she lives in this mansion and brings the hosts to a nervous breakdown. Pursue the lawyer, it was after a young woman was poisoned with poison at the trial, because Benediktsson could not protect her from the charge of incest. Because of this ghost, the famous Icelandic poet, could sleep only in the afternoon, and, after all, still left the building. Later in the house of Hovdi, some or other people settled, but rarely lived in the mansion for more than four years. His last tenant - the English consul - convinced the authorities not to use this building for a long stay. So the house became a municipal property, and began to deteriorate and decline. Even the question of its demolition was considered, but one architect restored the mansion, and thereby saved the house. And in 1986, the Icelandic summit was held here with M. Gorbachev and R. Reagan, at which politicians decided to end the cold war and the arms race.
Currently, the Hovdi house is used for official events and important meetings. Perhaps this somehow reassured the White Lady, now she no longer bothers the staff and famous visitors.
To visit ordinary tourists the house is closed, but to look at least from outside is worth it. Until now, you can see above the door the abbreviation of the French Republic, the name of the first owner and the year of construction. Next to the building is a copper statue of Ondvegissulur, built in 1971, which is very beautiful at sunset.
Where is and how to get there?
The house of Hövdi is located at ul. Fjörutún, 105. You can get here just by walking along the waterfront. If the weather is not very, and you decide to go by bus, the nearest stops are Hótel Cabin and Fíladelfía.