Iceland Unveiled: 30 Mind-Blowing Facts That Will Make You Want to Pack Your Bags and Go!
Feel Loved Through These Traffic Lights
In 2008, Iceland suffered an economic crash that left its citizens devastated. To lift everyone’s spirits, the northern town of Akureyri added heart-shaped fixtures to their traffic lights, reminding people to stay positive. Former mayor Eiríkur Björn Björgvinsson believes this small act of kindness made a big difference.
Akureyri is the second-largest urban area outside Reykjavík, located just 100 kilometers from the Arctic Circle. With a population of around 19,642 as of 2022, Akureyri is home to several must-visit locations, including the Botanical Garden. The garden features almost every plant that grows in Iceland, along with several species from other nations, including Greenland.
They Watch More Movies Than Any Country
Living in Iceland, where winter days are short and the weather is often harsh, can be a challenge. But Icelanders have found a way to cope: by watching movies. In fact, they watch more movies per capita than any other nationality.
And it’s not just about entertainment–Iceland has a deep love for the cinematic arts that extends to its own creative output. With more writers per capita than anywhere else, it’s not surprising that one in ten Icelanders has published a book in their lifetime. So when the blizzard rages outside, the warmth of a good movie or a great book becomes all the more valuable.
There’s Freedom of Religion
Icelanders have a reputation for being open-minded when it comes to religion. While many believe in the existence of elves and fairies, a significant portion of the population still identifies as members of the Church of Iceland. As the officially established Christian church in the country, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland, also known as the National Church, has played a vital role in shaping Icelandic society.
Unlike many European nations, Iceland has long embraced new religious ideas, and since 1874, freedom of religion has been protected by the constitution. The 17th-century Grafarkirkja Church, the country’s oldest, stands as a testament to Iceland’s enduring spiritual heritage.
Want To See An Elf School?
Iceland may be famous for its glaciers and geysers, but did you know that it’s also home to an elf school? The Álfaskólinn or Icelandic Elf School offers lectures and tours on the country’s rich mythology and folklore. Founded by the elf expert and headmaster Magnus Skarphedinsson, the school documents and preserves over 1,400 stories of elf encounters.
With 13 different kinds of elves and more than 60% of Icelanders believing in their existence, the school teaches visitors about the five types of elves and other invisible beings that inhabit the island nation. From hidden people to fairy tales, the Álfaskólinn is a fascinating glimpse into Icelandic folklore.
They Swim in the Winter
Despite the frosty conditions, Icelanders don’t let the winter chill dampen their spirits or their swimwear. As people who relish ice cream no matter the weather, it’s no surprise that they have a word for eating it while driving (“ísbíltúr”). But their love for aquatic adventures goes beyond frozen desserts.
Thanks to an abundance of geothermal hot springs, many Icelanders enjoy dips even when it’s snowing. The volcanic waters allow for year-round indulgence in nature’s hot tubs, no matter the outside temperature. And for those seeking a more regulated dip, heated pools maintain balmy temps of 86 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
There are 130 Volcanoes In Iceland
Iceland, located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, sits on the tectonic plates separating Eurasia and North America. These constantly moving plates fill the gaps with magma, leading to volcanic eruptions. With 130 volcanoes in the country, 30 are active, making Iceland a geologically active nation. However, with all the fiery natural wonders come to some good things, like a basalt rock shaped like an elephant’s head.
After several eruptions, the Westman Islands suffered significant damage. But the molten lava created a remarkably defined animal structure that became a unique landmark in the area. Iceland’s dynamic geological activity brings both danger and beauty to the Nordic island country.
They Celebrate Their Own Beer Day
Iceland and the United States may be worlds apart, but they share a common tale of failed alcohol prohibition. While America’s infamous ban on booze lasted from 1920 to 1933, Iceland’s own lasted a whopping 80 years from 1908 to 1989.
But unlike their American counterparts, the resilient Icelanders didn’t just celebrate the end of the ban with a pint or two, they turned it into a national holiday. Every year on March 1, the country raises a glass to Bjordagur, also known as Beer Day. With award-winning brews and thriving beer culture, Iceland has plenty of reasons to toast to its love for the golden nectar.
Last Names Aren’t Important
Names are a big deal in Iceland, but not in the way you might expect. Most Icelanders don’t use surnames or family names, instead having a patronymic last name that consists of their father’s first name and an attached suffix for daughter or son.
Women don’t change their names when they marry, and if they’ve taken their spouse’s surname overseas, they’ll have to return to their maiden name if they ever move back to Iceland. But none of this matters much, because, in Iceland, everyone goes by their first name–from teachers to doctors to politicians. In Iceland, titles aren’t important – it’s all about community and equality
A Different Way Of Celebrating Christmas
Icelanders have their own unique spin on Christmas traditions, ditching Santa Claus for a rough-and-tumble crew of 13 Yule Lads. Each gruff gift-giver visits once, starting 13 days before Christmas, as eager children await their small presents. But Iceland’s holiday traditions don’t stop there. They also celebrate “Jólabókaflóð,” or “Christmas book flood,” where everyone receives a book as a gift.
It’s no surprise that Icelanders love their literature–with a tradition of reading dating back to the 13th century, one in ten Icelanders will even write a book in their lifetime. So, while the Western world waits for Santa, Icelanders curl up with a good book and await their Yule Lads.
Marriage Is Not A Big Deal
Iceland is a country that’s less traditional when it comes to customs and conventions. One notable example of this is the fact that marriage isn’t as popular there as it is in other countries. With over half of the children born to unwed parents, it’s just not a big deal in this Arctic state.
According to Statista, a total of 108,000 people got married in Iceland in 2012, and that number only rose to 123,000 a decade later. In fact, unmarried singles make up the second-highest number, with almost 88,000, followed by around 30,000 unmarried individuals in consensual relationships.
A World Between Two Continents
Iceland is a geological wonderland with unique features that make it a must-visit destination. One such feature is the Silfra fissure, where you can swim between two tectonic plates that are pulling apart, resulting in a crack between continents. The narrow openings are so tight that you can touch both sides at once!
What’s more, Iceland is also home to the world’s cleanest water, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Even their currency celebrates the marine life that surrounds them, with fish and shellfish adorning their coins instead of the usual dignitaries. Icelanders have every reason to be proud of their natural wonders, both above and below the surface.
The Sheep Population Doubles Its Human Population
Iceland’s population of around 350,000 may be small, but it’s nothing compared to its fluffy, four-legged inhabitants. In fact, Iceland’s sheep population doubles that of its human population! It’s not hard to see why, though–with temperatures so chilly, it’s essential for Icelanders to bundle up in cozy woolens.
And what’s more, the country has long been famous for its high-quality woolen sweaters, made from the soft fleece of these hardy sheep. While the number of sheep in Iceland has fallen in recent years, with just under 500,000 remaining, the country’s wool industry is still going strong – making it the perfect place to stock up on warm, stylish knitwear.
Holder Of Europe’s Biggest Banana Plantation
While the Canary Islands in Spain produce more bananas, they’re not in Europe, making Iceland the continent’s top banana grower. With the help of geothermal energy, the Icelandic Agricultural University can produce up to 4,500 pounds of bananas annually. Iceland’s challenging weather conditions and limited growing season have made farming a struggle.
Only 1% of the land is arable, suitable for crops such as cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, potatoes, kale, and turnips. However, the use of geothermal energy has enabled the country to cultivate subtropical crops, cut flowers, and potted plants in greenhouses. Despite these challenges, Iceland has found a way to sustain its agricultural industry.
A Comedian Mayor Was Once Elected a Mayor
Jón Gnarr, a stand-up comedian in Iceland, once formed the “Best Party” with some folks who had no political experience. It might seem like a joke, but Gnarr ran for mayor and won, garnering 34.7% of the popular vote. He went on to hold the position for four years from 2010 to 2014.
Surprisingly, he was praised by philosopher Noam Chomsky as “his favorite mayor.” After his stint as a mayor, Gnarr wrote a memoir about his experiences, detailing how he became Reykjavík’s mayor. In this photo, he poses with Heida Helgadottir, the Best Party leader, as documented by The Guardian. Who says comedians can’t run a city?
There’s an App to Check Your Relatives
In 2010, an anti-virus software entrepreneur named Friðrik Skúlason worked with the genetics company deCODE to launch the Book of Icelanders or Íslendingabók. The website was created using a database developed by deCODE in 1997, and its primary purpose was to help Icelanders trace their genealogy.
However, the project evolved to include a mobile app that allowed Icelandic natives to check if their potential dates were close relatives. This feature was particularly useful in a country with a small population like Iceland. It’s not even surprising that a group of college students created the Íslendinga-App, which became popular among Icelanders.
Look Forward To The Midnight Sun
During the summer months in Iceland, the sun shines for up to 21 hours a day, creating a surreal experience of daylight lingering until almost midnight. This phenomenon is known as the ‘midnight sun’ and lasts for a few days each year.
Most stores close around 5:00 p.m. and reopen the following morning at 9:00 a.m., though souvenir shops in cities like Reykjavik often stay open later, catering to the tourist trade. So if you find yourself shopping for souvenirs in Reykjavik, don’t be surprised if it is still light out at 10:00 p.m.
They Take Work-Life Balance Seriously
Iceland isn’t just a land of stunning natural wonders and Nordic culture, it’s also at the forefront of progressive work-life balance. From 2015 to 2019, the country ran the world’s largest trial of a four-day workweek, with results showing that workers were not only happier and healthier but also more productive.
The trial ran in diverse settings, including hospitals, preschools, offices, and social services, inspiring 86% of Icelandic employees to now work shorter weeks or have the right to request it. Even during the long, dark winters, many Icelanders take on multiple jobs to stay active and ward off seasonal blues.
Harnessing The Earth’s Energy
Icelanders have long been in tune with the power of nature, and their innovative use of geothermal heating is a shining example of this. By tapping into the earth’s natural energy, they have turned winter into a wonderland, with snow-free sidewalks and car parks that never need shoveling.
It’s a genius solution that’s both practical and sustainable. What began as a way to bake bread and soak in hot springs has now evolved into a sophisticated district heating system that’s the envy of the world. With a 99.96% renewable energy supply, Iceland truly is a trailblazer in the fight against climate change.
No Mosquitoes
Iceland is a land of extremes, where natural wonders abound and the insect population is equally fascinating. While there are over 1,300 different types of bugs that call Iceland home, you won’t find a single mosquito in this chilly paradise.
But, don’t let the absence of mosquitoes fool you – Icelanders still have to contend with pesky midges that are similar to mosquitos. These tiny insects can sneak into homes through open windows and doors, leaving itchy, swollen bites that can even turn into blisters. Screens aren’t typically used on windows and doors, making it even easier for the midges to make themselves at home
Home Of The World’s First Female President
Iceland has a long history of championing gender equality, and the world’s first democratically elected female president, Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, is a testament to that. In 1980, she made history by beating three male candidates to become the country’s fourth president, garnering 33.6% of the votes.
Finnbogadóttir went on to win re-election in 1988 with a staggering 94.6% of the votes. Even in 2022, she remains a political force to be reckoned with, advocating for women’s rights. Her presence was recently honored at the Reykjavik Global Forum, where she was celebrated by Iceland’s prime minister and other high-level women in politics.
Naming Babies Is A Serious Business
Iceland takes baby names seriously, with strict rules surrounding them. They must conform to the Icelandic language and be approved in the official register. Any parent who wants a different name for their newborn must request permission from the Personal Names Committee.
Meanwhile, Icelandic infants are wheeled outside to nap in the fresh air, believed to keep illness away. Some sleep experts even suggest that the cold air induces deeper snoozing. This tradition isn’t unique to Iceland; most Scandinavian nations do it. Cold air is believed to induce a deeper sleep. So if you’re in Iceland, don’t be surprised to see babies snoozing in prams outdoors – it’s all for their health!
An Old Norse Tradition Where Trees Are Planted on Graves
Iceland’s folklore is a tapestry woven with tales of magic, mythical creatures, and Viking legends. And proof of its enchanting folklore can be found in unexpected places, like the Hólavallagarður cemetery in Reykjavik. According to local legend, this tree-filled graveyard was once a Viking burial ground where trees were planted on graves as an old Norse tradition.
Today, visitors can connect with their departed loved ones by touching the trees, adding an ethereal element to the peaceful surroundings. Meanwhile, in the United States, the Capsula Mundi and Bio Urn offer eco-friendly burial options, legal as of 2023, though varying state laws make natural burials a patchwork of rules and regulations.
Feel Loved Through These Traffic Lights
In 2008, Iceland suffered an economic crash that left its citizens devastated. To lift everyone’s spirits, the northern town of Akureyri added heart-shaped fixtures to their traffic lights, reminding people to stay positive. Former mayor Eiríkur Björn Björgvinsson believes this small act of kindness made a big difference.
Akureyri is the second-largest urban area outside Reykjavík, located just 100 kilometers from the Arctic Circle. With a population of around 19,642 as of 2022, Akureyri is home to several must-visit locations, including the Botanical Garden. The garden features almost every plant that grows in Iceland, along with several species from other nations, including Greenland.
The Springs Are Not For Coin-tossing
Iceland may be a popular tourist destination, welcoming over two million visitors each year, but there are certain rules that must be followed upon arrival. One such rule pertains to those who believe in the magical powers of springs, thinking that throwing coins into them will grant their wishes.
Sadly, this is not the case, and it has become a bit of a problem for the Environment Agency of Iceland. For years, visitors to the Geysir geothermal area have been throwing coins into the geyser Blési, prompting ranger Lárus Kjartansson to consider installing more prominent signs to deter this behavior. So, please respect Iceland’s natural wonders and leave the coin-tossing for another time and place.
You Have Easy Access To Safe Drinking Water
In Iceland, drinking tap water is not only safe but it’s also recommended. The water is so pure that it’s almost like drinking straight from a natural spring. Iceland sources almost all of its tap water from underground wells, where it’s naturally filtered by layers of volcanic rock.
The country’s streams, lakes, and rivers are also safe to drink from, provided you have a tumbler. Additionally, Iceland is home to various geothermal pools, like the Blue Lagoon Spa, famous for its milky white silica mud and warm mineral-rich water that is believed to have healing properties. You don’t have to go far to find pure and refreshing water.
There Isn’t a Public Railway System
Iceland, a land of modern wonders, is surprisingly without a public railway system. Although they do have a railway dedicated to transporting goods, it’s not for public use due to the sparse population and harsh weather conditions.
But despite this lack of infrastructure, Iceland’s adventurous spirit shines through in the “Sword Road” on the Snaefellsnes peninsula, an ode to the sword-wielding Nordic ancestors who settled in Iceland over a millennium ago. This road leads to breathtaking sights and captures the imagination of visitors, conjuring images of Vikings and their legendary sagas. In Iceland, innovation and tradition intertwine to create a unique and unforgettable experience.
There Are No McDonald’s There
McDonald’s has become a staple in over 100 countries with more than 38,000 locations worldwide. However, it’s shocking to learn that this fast-food chain is absent in Iceland. With a population of 346,938, as per the January 2023 United Nations data, Icelanders don’t have access to McDonald’s since the last outlet shut down in 2009, and no new ones have opened since.
Despite Icelanders’ frequent dining out habits, the world’s largest restaurant chain by revenue couldn’t withstand the nation’s unique landscape filled with volcanoes, hot springs, and fjords. Maybe Icelanders are content with their traditional dishes, or perhaps McDonald’s couldn’t compete with the island’s natural beauty.
They Have a Richness of Language
Iceland may be notorious for its tricky language, but locals make things easy for tourists by speaking excellent English. However, the country’s linguistic quirks are fascinating: with 100 words for wind, Icelanders have a precise vocabulary to describe their ever-changing weather patterns. This richness of language extends to ancient texts, as many Icelanders can read Old Norse.
When we picture Iceland, we might envision icy blasts and snowdrifts, but summer in this land of fire and ice is surprisingly mild. Average high temperatures hover around 57 degrees Fahrenheit, with nighttime lows dipping to 43 degrees Fahrenheit. So even in summer, pack a sweater and enjoy Iceland’s stunning landscapes in comfort.
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