The Icelandic Phallological Museum, known locally as Hið íslenzka reðasafn, stands as one of Reykjavík’s most intriguing attractions, drawing visitors from around the globe with its unique and extensive collection. A testament to the peculiar and the extraordinary, this museum offers an educational yet entertaining exploration into the world of phallology—the study of penises.
The museum was founded in 1997 by Sigurður Hjartarson, a former history teacher whose fascination with phallology began in childhood. His first encounter with the subject was a cattle whip made from a bull’s penis, a gift that sparked a lifelong interest. Over the years, Sigurður amassed a collection that would eventually become the museum, featuring specimens from various animal species across Iceland.
Initially housed in Sigurður's office, the collection grew through donations and acquisitions from across the country. The museum received support from the Reykjavík City Council and opened its doors to the public, quickly becoming a popular tourist destination.
Visitors to the Icelandic Phallological Museum can expect to find over 280 specimens from 93 different animal species, including whales, seals, and land mammals. The largest exhibit is the tip of a blue whale’s penis, measuring an impressive 170 cm and weighing 70 kg. On the other end of the scale, the smallest specimen is the 2 mm penis bone of a hamster, viewable only with a magnifying glass.
The museum also features a folklore section, showcasing mythical specimens from Icelandic legends, such as elves and trolls. According to local folklore, these creatures are invisible, adding a whimsical touch to the already fascinating collection.
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In addition to biological specimens, the museum displays a variety of phallic art and crafts. From lampshades made from bull scrotums to intricately carved wooden phalli, these artistic pieces highlight the cultural and historical significance of the phallus in art and society.
One of the most talked-about exhibits is the museum's quest to acquire a human specimen. In 2011, the museum received its first human donation, an event documented in the Canadian film The Final Member. This addition marked a significant milestone in the museum's history and further piqued public interest.
In 2012, Sigurður passed the museum's reins to his son, Hjörtur Gísli Sigurðsson, who continues to manage and expand the collection. Described as the world’s only hereditary penis museum operator, Hjörtur is committed to keeping the museum in Iceland, despite offers to move it abroad.
The museum's relocation to Reykjavík's main shopping street, Laugavegur, has only increased its accessibility and popularity, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
Stepping into the Icelandic Phallological Museum is an experience unlike any other. The exhibits are displayed with a blend of scientific rigor and playful curiosity, inviting visitors to explore and learn in an open-minded environment. The museum’s mission is to encourage serious study of phallology, a field often relegated to the fringes of academic study.
Whether you are a curious tourist or a dedicated scholar, the museum offers a unique opportunity to engage with this unusual subject matter in a way that is both informative and entertaining.
The Icelandic Phallological Museum is more than just a collection of curiosities; it is a celebration of diversity and a testament to human curiosity. It challenges visitors to view the natural world from a different perspective, offering insights into both the biological and cultural aspects of phallology.
As one of Iceland’s most distinctive attractions, the museum continues to captivate and educate, making it an essential stop on any Reykjavík itinerary. Whether you leave amused, enlightened, or simply entertained, a visit to the Icelandic Phallological Museum is sure to be a memorable experience.
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