Hofdi House
Hofdi House, built in 1909, is probably one of the most beautiful buildings in Reykjavik. It is best known as the location for the 1986 summit meeting of presidents Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbatsjov, that effectively marked the end of the Cold War.
During this meeting the house became world known and a Japanese millioneer had an exact replica of the house built in his country. The sculpture in front of the house depicts the high seat pillars of the first Norwegian settler in Reykjavik.
Initially, Hofdi was the house of the French consul in Iceland and still bears many signs of its original purpose, such as the letters RF (the abbreviation of the French Republic ), the name of the consul and the year of its construction above an inside door.
Among other renowned guests of Hofdi House are various heads of states (amongst them the Queen of England), Winston Churchilll and Marlene Dietrich. In addition, the house is believed to be occupied by a ghost, "The White Lady", experienced by a former British Ambassador who once occupied the house (she tried his nerves so much, that he persuaded the British foreign office to sell the house).
Hofdi is owned by the the City of Reykjavik and is currently used for official receptions and meetings of the municipality. Hofdi House is unfortunately not open to casual visitors, although visitors are welcome to explore the house from the outside. Hofdi is located at Borgartun and a visit to the house can be combined with a pleasant stroll along Reykjavik's waterfront.