A Hallmark Christmas Adventure: The Christmas Quest was filmed in Skálholt Cathedral last year.
The plot: Stephanie, an archaeologist, and her ex-husband Chase, a Norse language expert, reunite in Iceland at Christmastime to search for the legendary treasure of the Yule Lads. But they aren’t the only ones after it. As rivals close in, the pair must solve ancient riddles, navigate stunning landscapes, and race to protect the treasure before it falls into the wrong hands.
Filmed against the breathtaking beauty of Iceland, from Reykjavík to the iconic Golden Circle, the movie takes you through enchanting locations like Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, Þingvellir National Park, and the historic Skálholt Cathedral.
Skálholt Cathedral, one of Iceland’s most historical sites, has been a bishop's seat since 1056. The first church on the site was built in the year 1000, and the current cathedral—the tenth to stand there—was consecrated in 1963. The cathedral holds stunning artwork and artifacts from the 16th century. Its underground tunnel, which dates back to the 11th century, played a key role during the turbulent Sturlung era of the 12th century, serving as an escape route. Later, the tunnel was used by inhabitants to enter the church for prayers and mass. Today, it forms part of the crypt, housing ancient headstones and an 800-year-old stone coffin uncovered during archaeological digs in the 1950s. While Stephanie and Chase uncover a mythical cave at the tunnel's end in the movie, viewers should know this was created with greenscreen magic. The real tunnel leads visitors to the crypt—a treasure trove of Icelandic history.
At the heart of the adventure is Skálholt Cathedral, where Stephanie and Chase unravel clues that lead them through the secret tunnel. Along the way, their journey becomes more than a hunt for treasure—it’s a chance to heal old wounds and rediscover love.
Starring Lacey Chabert and Kristoffer Polaha, The Christmas Quest blends romance, mystery, and holiday magic into an unforgettable story.
Skálholt Cathedral is open every day from 9am - 6pm. Visitors are welcome to enter the church and visit the crypt and the underground tunnel. Fee for the crypt is 500 ISK per pers.
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