Open Group Exhibition
An Introduction to the Sagas
Led by Eyþór Guðmundsson, who restores the books himself. A guided encounter with the texts that shaped the world’s understanding of the Viking Age.
A Refined Introduction
Iceland’s Sagas, Up Close
Old Icelandic Books offers a refined introduction to its collection, designed for guests who want to engage with Iceland’s literary heritage in a structured and accessible setting.
Conducted in small, carefully managed groups, this experience provides insight into the Icelandic Sagas and their enduring significance as the primary written sources of Viking history and Norse mythology. Guests are guided through selected volumes from the collection, gaining an understanding of how these texts have shaped global perceptions of the Viking Age.
Led by Eyþór Guðmundsson, the experience combines historical context with narrative interpretation. As the conservator who restores the volumes himself, Eyþór offers first-hand insight into preservation, provenance, and the histories these books carry.
What the Sagas Preserve
From the Eddas to Tolkien
The collection includes early printed editions of the Icelandic Sagas, the Prose Edda, and the Poetic Edda. These are the texts that preserved Viking history, Norse mythology, and the deeds of figures like Egill Skallagrímsson, Njáll Þorgeirsson, and Ragnar Loðbrók.
These same texts shaped how the modern world imagines the Viking Age. They influenced Tolkien’s Middle-earth, Wagner’s Ring Cycle, and centuries of European and global literature that followed.
This is where guests encounter them in their original printed form, the books that carried these stories forward across nine centuries.
A meaningful first encounter.
The experience maintains the defining qualities of Old Icelandic Books: authenticity, depth, and direct engagement with original materials, presented in a format that welcomes a broader audience.
A point of entry.
What to Expect
A Guided Encounter
A guided introduction to the Icelandic sagas and their global impact.
Viewing of selected antiquarian books and early printed works.
Insight into the cultural and historical context of the Viking Age.
A focused and intimate group setting.
From Our Guests
Recent Reviews
“This was a one-of-a-kind experience! Eyþór shared precious books, maps, and manuscript pages from his collection, explaining their significance and how he restores them. We were especially interested in the sagas, and we did not leave disappointed! Being able to touch and examine these precious works was truly incredible. Thank you!!!”
– Wendy P., TripAdvisor“What a great experience! If you are interested in old books and manuscripts, and how they can be recovered and repaired this is the place for you. We got to see and to hold some amazing old texts, including a first edition of the saga of Viga Glum from 1785, Njal’s saga from 1772, and many others. The owner is really knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and clearly loves sharing his experiences with others. Highly recommended.”
– Martin E., Connecticut, USAContact
Plan Your Visit
Every visit is arranged personally with Eyþór and tailored to your group, interests, and schedule. Get in touch to plan yours.
or email us directly at oldicelandicbooks@gmail.com
Looking for a more personal experience? Visit the Exclusive Exhibition →