History and culture come to life in the swimming pools
In celebration of Icelandic swimming pool culture being inscribed on UNESCO's list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Hafnarfjörður Folk Museum has set up new historical exhibitions in the town's swimming pools.
Three new historical exhibitions in the town's swimming pools
In celebration of Icelandic swimming pool culture being inscribed on UNESCO's list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Hafnarfjörður Folk Museum has set up new historical exhibitions in the town's swimming pools.
A level playing field
The exhibitions are located in all three of Hafnarfjörður's swimming pools and shed light on this significant recognition, the history of the pools, and the development of swimming pool culture in the town. It highlights, among other things, how swimming pools have been a platform for equality – where everyone is equal in their swimming costumes – and how the culture has evolved and lived on with each generation.
A living part of people's daily lives
Icelandic swimming pool culture is unique in that it is a living part of people's daily lives; a place for exercise, socialising and conversation. In Hafnarfjörður, swimming pools have for a long time played an important role in the community and are an integral part of the lives of the town's residents. „It is extremely pleasing to see this important recognition reflected so vibrantly in our own local community. Swimming pools are not just a place for exercise but also a hub for community and conversation where different generations meet. With these exhibitions, history is made visible and accessible to all,“ says Heiðrún Eva Konráðsdóttir, a specialist at the museum.
The aim of the exhibitions is to raise awareness of the cultural value of the swimming pools and to highlight the unique tradition that is Icelandic swimming pool culture – a tradition that continues to evolve and bring people together every day.