Here are some facts about Iceland.
- Iceland is an island country situated in the North Atlantic Ocean.
- It has a population of about 320,000 and is the most sparsely populated country in Europe.
- Most Icelanders live in and around the capital, Reykjavik. Almost all the rest of the country consists of mountains, glaciers and lava fields.
- There are 30 small islands as well as the main island.
- Reykjavik is the world’s most northerly capital city, and is one of the safest and cleanest cities in the world. Its name means ‘smoke coves’, and this is a reference to the many hot springs and geysers nearby.
- Most Icelanders believe in elves and some builders even build roads and houses to avoid disrupting elves’ homes. They are said to cause trouble and live in rocky areas.
- More Coca-Cola is drunk per person in Iceland than anywhere else.
- The residents also like a drink called Brennivin, made from potatoes.
- The Icelandic Parliament is the oldest in the world, and was established in 930 AD.
- The country was part of Denmark for much of its history, but became independent in 1944.
- Iceland has days (during July and August) when the sun never sets.
- Playing golf in the midnight sun is popular, and Iceland has one of the world’s most northerly golf courses.
- Iceland contains the most volcanic area in the world. It also has the largest waterfall and glacier in Europe.
- Icelanders are listed by their first name in the telephone book, and everyone uses first names. The last name of Icelanders comes from the first name of their father.
- In Iceland, the Yule Lads are said to deliver presents on Christmas Eve instead of Father Christmas. They deliver gifts to good children, and rotting potatoes to bad children.
