The modern capital of Iceland is represented by the largest city in the country - Reykjavik. Its history began when Ingolv Arnason, a Viking, found himself on this earth and built himself a farm in 874. Literally, Reykjavik is translated as “smoky bay”. This is due, first of all, to the fact that steam, which impressed the settlers, was rising from the hot springs located here. The city around farming began to be built only in the 11th century, after the establishment of woolen workshops by the royal treasurer. And already in 1786, Reykjavik, it was decided to appropriate the status of the city.
The capital of Iceland is the northernmost
capital of Europe and is currently a small city with a population of just over 117,000. The unique countryside makes the life in the city special, for example, elk fishing takes place almost on the territory of the capital.
What is the remarkable capital of Iceland?
The power of thermal geysers, originating in the bowels of the earth, the purity of a green city and the energy of nightly fun - these are integral parts of Reykjavik. His heart is the Old City. There are parks and lakes, museums and markets. The modern part of the capital can please tourists with such attractions as, for example, the statue of Life Erickson.
In the very center of the city, on the shores of Lake Thornir, is the City Hall. This building is made of glass and concrete. Its austere architectural features embody the spirit that fills all of Iceland. Reykjavik is one of the few cities in the world in which the entire apparatus of officials is located in such an amazing structure. Today in the Town Hall is the City Hall, the walls of which are decorated with unique drawings and photographs. The 3D map of the country located here deserves special attention.
The capital of Iceland has become famous for its symbol, which is the Cathedral of Hallgrimskirkja. This monumental building is the fourth tallest building in the capital. It is built in such a way that it can be seen from anywhere in Reykjavik. The project of the Cathedral was developed in 1937; it took 38 years to complete it. The final of the construction was the lighting of the nave in 1986. Unique is not only the
architectural style, but also the interior of the church. People from all over the country come here to listen to the organ, the sound of which is provided by 5275 special tubes of different diameters and sizes.
Now imagine. Night ... a huge column of light rises into the black sky : the light of six spotlights from the "well of desires" goes far into space. The words “Imagine Peace” (which means “Imagine the World”) are written on the walls of the well in 24 languages of the world.
The opening of this "Tower of Peace" on Videy Island took place on the day of the 67th anniversary of John Lennon. You can enjoy such a beautiful sight from 9.10 to 8.12, on Christmas and some other holidays in the evening. The island itself is just a short boat ride away. In this place, cultural, historical significance intertwine with a unique, very beautiful nature. Augustine Monastery was located here for a long time and in the Middle Ages it was a center of pilgrimage. Today Videy is a tourist area, offering visiting guests excursions and walks, watching the nesting of 30 species of birds.
If you have not yet decided where to start your journey to Iceland, start to learn it from the capital - this will allow you to fall in love with this country and make you strive here again.