Róaldsbrakki

The Herring Era Museum is officially recognized as specializing in the history of the herring industry in Iceland. It is likely the only museum of its kind in the world.

One of the museum buildings is located in Róaldsbrakki, a former Norwegian salting station built in 1907. The 'brakki' in itself is a grand monument to the Norwegian influence in the Icelandic herring industry.

On the ground floor there is an exhibition focused on fishing and salting processes. By means of artifacts, historical photographs, and text, the herring era is vividly brought to life. The exhibition continues on the first floor, where attention is given to the export of herring products and the administration of the industry.

On the first floor there are two smaller exhibitions: one concerning the history of herring fisheries elsewhere in Europe, and the other on Norway's influence on the Icelandic herring industry. Several historic films can be seen and hundreds of photographs are also on display.

The "brakki" has been left largely in its original state, as the lodging for dozens of 'herring girls' who worked there during the summers. Walking through their rooms on the third floor, one experiences the rich flavor of these times. The same can be said for "the office of the herring speculator", the management office for the salting station and employees.

In front of Róaldsbrakki there is an old-fashioned pier with work stations for the salting process. Guests can enjoy the performances by the local theatrical group, which demonstrate working methods of the salting stations. These performances allow guests a glimpse of working life on the piers during the Herring Era, and days which often ended with dancing to the accordion.