Húsið

Húsið is a term meaning "the house" in Icelandic and is used as a nickname for several notable buildings in Iceland, most commonly the Parliament House in Reykjavik, known as Alþingishúsið. This building sits on Austurvöllur square in central Reykjavik and serves as the seat of the Alþingi, Iceland’s national parliament. Construction occurred in the late 19th century, and the structure has since undergone renovations and extensions to accommodate evolving parliamentary functions, offices, and modern facilities. The architecture shows neoclassical influences, with a compact footprint and a prominent facade facing the square.

Húsið is a focal point of Icelandic political life and is accessible to the public on select days, offering guided tours that explain the history of the legislature and the building’s architectural features. The surrounding Austurvöllur area is a public space that hosts gatherings, demonstrations, and events, contributing to the site’s civic significance. A statue of Jón Sigurðsson, a key figure in Iceland’s independence, stands near the square and is commonly associated with the parliamentary grounds.

The term Húsið may also be used informally to refer to other civic or cultural buildings in Iceland, depending on local context. In general, it denotes a building of national or communal importance that serves as a house for an institutional function.