The Pearl (Icelandic: Perlan) is
for many one of the most impressive sights in Reykjavík and one of the major attractions, inaugurated in 1991. It is an
impressive building on the little hill of Oskjuhlid (Icelandic: Öskjuhlíð).
The Pearl rests on six water tanks storing hot water from boreholes within Reykjavík and others boreholes nearby. Four of the tanks are used to store 24.000 tons of 80° C (190°F) hot water and two tanks collect the back flow water from the houses.
The structure is about 30 m high and with a space of about 20.000 cubic meters. It has six floors with 3.700 m2 and was constructed of hollow stainless steel profiles through which hot water is pipelined for heating in winter and cold water for cooling in summer.
In the
Pearl there is a revolving restaurant on the top floor where guests can enjoy a spectacular panoramic
view of Reykjavík, even without dining at the restaurant itself. It is possible to go outside on the veranda and walk around or have a bite at
the cafeteria on the fourth floor.
On the ground floor is the so-called Saga museum (where Icelandic history is brought to life) and room for exhibitions receptions etc.
The hill Oskjuhlid (61 m) is part of a chain of open and green areas in Reykjavik and a favorite hill of many people living in Reykjavík.
Geological research shows that 10.000 years ago the sea level was much higher there, 43 m higher than it is now. The hill has a lot of trees, plants (135), and interesting bird life (84) and rabbits can be spotted on the slopes. If you take a walk on the hill you will likely see several ruins along the way from the time when the allied forces came to Iceland during WW2.
Note that near the Pearl there is an artificial geyser which spouts every 15 minutes or so during the day.
