Happy TravellerWelcome to Kópavogur, the charming town located just south of Reykjavík in Iceland. As the country’s second largest municipality by population, Kópavogur offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant urban life. With its picturesque scenery, fascinating history, and diverse range of activities, Kópavogur is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Let’s explore all that this enchanting town has to offer.
Kópavogur is a name with a delightful meaning, as it translates to ‘seal pup inlet.’ This perfectly captures the town’s coastal location and its close connection to the surrounding nature. The town seal itself features the iconic silhouette of the Kópavogskirkja church with a seal pup underneath, symbolizing both the town’s heritage and its deep ties to the ocean.
One of the highlights of Kópavogur is its stunning skyline dominated by the impressive Smáratorg Tower. As the tallest building in Iceland, this architectural marvel offers breathtaking views of the town and its surroundings. From here, you can marvel at the beauty of Kópavogur’s residential areas, commercial districts, and bustling industrial hubs.
To truly appreciate the history of Kópavogur, a visit to the Kópavogur meeting site is a must. This significant event took place in 1662 and marked the complete incorporation of Iceland into Denmark–Norway. The meeting was attended by Bishop Brynjólfur Sveinsson and Árni Oddsson, a lawyer, who signed a document affirming Iceland’s commitment to absolute monarchy. This historical milestone solidified the town’s place in Icelandic history.
Kópavogur is also known for its rich folklore and urban legends surrounding the huldufólk, or hidden people. These mythical creatures are believed to inhabit the Icelandic landscape, and Kópavogur is one of the prominent sites for these enchanting tales. In fact, the stone Grásteinn in the Kópavogur municipality is depicted as an elf-house in the 2010 film ‘Sumarlandið,’ further adding to the town’s mystical allure.
Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Kópavogur. The town is home to several prominent sports clubs, including Gerpla, Breiðablik, and HK. Breiðablik won their first Icelandic league title in football in 2010, while HK achieved the same feat in team handball in 2012. Additionally, Kópavogur is home to Thors Power Gym, a renowned training facility owned by Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson, the strongest man of all time. The gym is a haven for hardcore strongman and powerlifting enthusiasts.
Kópavogur is also proud to be the birthplace of many notable individuals. Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson, known for his role as
