The subject of our review today will be Iceland. Description of the country, interesting facts, attractions - all this is in the material presented below.

general information

Iceland is an island and a state. is 103 thousand sq. km, which is home to about 322 thousand people. The capital is the city of Reykjavik, where a third of the country's total population is concentrated, and with its suburbs - more than half. The official language is Icelandic, and the currency is the Icelandic krona, the exchange rate of which in 2016 was 122 kroner per 1 USD. Iceland is a parliamentary republic headed by a president elected for a 4-year term. To enter the country, Russian citizens need a foreign passport and a Schengen visa.

Location

Iceland, a land of ice, is located at the northern tip of the Atlantic Ocean, with no large landmass until the North Pole. Its northern part is located near the Arctic Circle.

The island is remote from the rest of Europe: from the nearest Faroe Islands 420 km, from the island of Great Britain 860 km, and from the nearest point on the mainland coast of Norway 970 km. An interesting fact is that, despite this, Iceland is a European country, although it is much closer to the North American island of Greenland - 287 km.

Iceland: interesting facts about the country

The discovery of Iceland dates back to the end of the 8th century by Irish monks, and after them the Normans Nadod and Floki arrived here. Following these events, at the end of the 9th century, the active settlement of the island began by Vikings - immigrants from Norway, who in half a century managed to develop almost all the land suitable for habitation and economic development.

In 1264, Iceland was annexed by Norway, and in 1381, it became part of Denmark. The country gained its independence only in 1944.

The inhabitants of the island are a courageous and proud people who respect their historical past and cultural traditions. In particular, to ancient Icelandic legends - sagas telling about family feuds, exciting events, about elves, gnomes and other mysterious characters, in the existence of which some residents still believe.

Iceland is that there is practically no crime here - there is only one prison, and it contains no more than a dozen people. The police here walk around without weapons, but there is no army at all.

The basis of the modern economy consists of only two industries - aluminum processing and fishing. By the way, it will be said that the annual catch volumes of the islanders are second only to Norway among European countries.

Iceland is one of the prosperous countries. So, the average per capita annual income here is $39,000 (by our ruble standards, every resident here, including an infant, is a millionaire).

Nature

The country of Iceland, for all its modest size, is the world's largest island of volcanic origin. The island's topography is predominantly mountainous; the peaks represent the vents of extinct and active volcanoes. The highest of them is the peak of Hvannadalshnukur (2110 m), located on the southwestern coast. The most low point located very nearby - this is the lagoon of a glacial lake (0 meters above sea level).

Many of the active volcanoes make themselves known from time to time powerful eruptions. The most large volcano The island is considered to be the famous Hekla (1488 meters), located near “Greater Reykjavik” and frightened local residents with its eruption in 2000.

The longest river on the island is Tjoursau (237 km). Among other water bodies, glaciers abound and glacial lakes, found everywhere and in innumerable quantities.

Iceland is unique in its diversity of natural landscapes. In addition to glaciers, the surface of the country is covered in many places with lava fields. Geysers and hot springs are common in these areas. The island is scattered with rocky areas covered with thick mosses and lichens, islands of birch forests and grass meadows. Waterfalls in various parts of the island make the area particularly picturesque. On the west coast, numerous fjords amaze with their beauty. National parks have been created in the country to protect the stunning nature.

Climate and typical weather

Iceland is a northern country that doesn't quite live up to its icy name. The Gulf Stream, which washes it especially from the south, prevents it from becoming a cold, harsh desert.

Winters here are relatively warm, with average monthly temperature-1 °C, which can be the envy of many territories located to the south of Russia. However, during some periods of this season, cold winds are frequent, which, together with accumulations of drifting Arctic ice, especially in the southeast, cause sharp drops in temperature to -30 °C. The duration of daylight hours is no more than five hours.

Summer here is not hot. Average temperatures in July are only +12 °C. It's warmest on south coast- up to +20 °C, with maximums up to + 30 °C. In summer, the entire island is illuminated by the sun around the clock, and there are white nights characteristic of polar latitudes.

Precipitation is distributed unevenly across the island. For example, on the west coast their number ranges from 1300 to 2000 mm per year, in the northeast their norm is up to 750 mm, and in the mountainous part of the southern regions they can have values ​​of up to 4000 mm.

The weather here is very changeable, and without exaggeration we can say that it can change in just a few minutes. It had just been warm and sunny, when suddenly the sky became cloudy and a cold, dank wind blew. Residents of the country jokingly tell their visiting guests and tourists: “If suddenly you don’t like something about the weather, then don’t despair, wait half an hour and it will change.”

Reykjavik attractions

Reykjavik - main city, capital of Iceland. What country cannot boast a huge number of attractions? Likewise, Iceland has something to show tourists. In particular, its main city houses historical and architectural monuments, museums and modern institutions. Among them, the attention of tourists is attracted by:

• Hallgrimskirkja Temple is a religious Lutheran building from the mid-20th century, in the form of a volcanic eruption. There is a large organ inside. In front of the church there is a statue of Happy.
• The Cathedral, which is the main temple, built at the end of the 18th century.
• The Althing (Parliament) building was built in the classicist style in the 19th century.
• Perlane, or pearl, looks like a daisy with a blue dome. It is located on a high hill and has a rotating platform for viewing the panorama of the city. Inside the building there is a Saga Museum, a winter garden, an artificial geyser, shopping pavilions and restaurants.
• "Kaffy Reykjavik" - this bar is unusual in that it consists of solid blocks of ice, and drinks are certainly served in ice glasses.
• Concert Hall "Harpa". Its facades consist of multi-colored glass cells, which, with the help of built-in LEDs, impress visitors with a play of colors.

Blue Lagoon

The lagoon is a geothermal source and a resort with all the proper infrastructure. This is perhaps the most famous and visited place for hundreds of thousands of tourists. A lagoon is an artificially created body of water with a constant temperature of 40 °C. This is the only place of its kind on the planet that is filled with visitors all year round. It has been found that swimming in the mineral-rich waters of the lake helps heal skin diseases.

Valley of Geysers

It arose in the 13th century after a strong earthquake. The main one of the sources, called the Great Geysir, throws out a stream of water very high temperature to a height of up to 70 meters from a depth of more than two thousand meters. The contemplation of this majestic spectacle leaves a strong impression. There are also places for swimming in less hot springs. Residents use the natural heat of the geysers to heat their homes.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall

The waterfall is located in the south of the island and is very popular among tourists. Water falls from a height of 60 meters. It flows down from the rocks that used to be the coastline, but now a picturesque valley has formed in this place. The beauty of the waterfall (in combination with the surrounding landscape) has no equal. That's why his photographs are featured on calendars and postcards.

Colored mountains

During the warm season of the year, in the Landmannalaugar National Park you can see a striking sight - colorful mountains. The mountain slopes glow with unusual stripes - brown, yellow, pink, blue, purple, green, white and black. The reason for this phenomenon is associated with the volcanic origin of rocks. The park's location near the Hekla volcano makes it one of the most popular tourist centers countries.

Vatnajökull National Park

What else can you tell about Iceland? Facts about the country and all its attractions simply cannot be listed in one article. But still I would like to mention this park. It was created in 2008. It covers almost 12% of Iceland's territory and is the largest in Europe. The main highlight of the park is the glacier of the same name with an area of ​​up to 8100 square meters. km and ice thickness up to 500 meters. Under its shell there are beautiful ice caves, as well as seven active volcanoes.

For entertainment in Vatnajökull, tourists can take walks around beautiful places, engage in winter sports, but bathing in hot springs located inside ice caves is especially popular.

Undoubtedly, this is only a small part of the natural attractions of the country of Iceland; many more interesting and mysterious things await tourists in its vastness.

1. Iceland is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world, about 320 thousand people live here, and before the Second World War the population of the country was only 50 thousand.

2. Since everyone in Iceland knows each other, when a couple separates or divorces, they always try to maintain good relations. Cases when an ex-boyfriend does not communicate with an ex-girlfriend or ex-spouses do not talk to each other are extremely rare, because in any case, they have almost all of their friends and acquaintances in common.

3. Instead of surnames in Iceland there are patronymics, that is, an analogue of our patronymic. The particle “son” (that is, son) or “dottir” (if this is a daughter) is added to the father’s name, which results, for example, Silia Palmarsdottir, that is, Silia is the daughter of Palmars.

4. If the father for some reason does not recognize the child, the son or daughter receives a matronym as a surname, that is, the same patronymic, but after the mother’s name.

5. Since everyone in Reykjavik knows each other, the doors of houses are often not locked, car keys are thrown in cars, and children in strollers are left unattended at the entrance to a cafe, bar or store.

6. In Reykjavik, it is considered normal to go out to the nearest grocery store in your pajamas.

7. Residents of Reykjavik almost always pay for purchases with bank cards, even if they order coffee at a bar. Cash payments are not accepted here.

8. Icelanders are sure that blowing your nose is harmful to health, so in winter everyone here sniffles, that is, sorry, they suck in the snot.

9. But spitting, on the contrary, is not considered indecent; even girls spit on the street and in public places without any problems.

10. In fact, in Iceland in winter it is not as cold as we used to think; the temperature here rarely drops below -6 degrees.

11. But in winter it is dark in Iceland, December 21 - on the shortest day of the year, dawn comes at 10.30, and the sun sets at 16.00. In summer, long nights are replaced by long days, compared to which white nights in St. Petersburg are simply nothing; in June in Iceland the sun sets for only a couple of hours.

12. The lack of sunlight in winter is compensated to some extent by the northern lights; they can be observed constantly, so after a couple of weeks you no longer pay attention to them.

13. Since the sun does not shine in Iceland in winter, all residents of the country, in order to avoid rickets and other unpleasant diseases, are required to take fish oil, but not in liquid form, but in tasteless capsules.

14. Almost all residents of Iceland have profiles on Facebook; according to the latest data, Iceland is an active country on the social network.

15. Even if a resident of Iceland for some reason does not have a profile on Facebook, he can still be easily found on the Internet. All residents of the country, of their own free will, register on the ja.is website, where they indicate their first and last name, telephone number, address and place on the map where their home is located.

16. In Iceland, if a person is well disposed towards you, he demonstrates this by touching you every now and then.

17. There are an order of magnitude more blondes in Iceland than brunettes, so local women like to dye their hair a darker shade.

18. In order to spend the night with an Icelandic girl, long courtship is not required, most Icelandic women are, as they say, easy going, which is also why Italians and Spaniards love to come to Reykjavik.

19. Icelanders are very tolerant, a gay pride parade is regularly held in Reykjavik, homosexual marriages have been allowed here since 2010, and the percentage of bisexuals in the country is very high.

20. The most popular professions in Iceland are artist, musician or designer. Every second bartender or waiter is trying to get an education in a creative profession, and at the same time plays in some rock or folk band.

21. For the reason described above, no one here uses the services of designers, for example, in order to come up with the design of an apartment or a wedding dress. Residents of Iceland are sure that each of them is their own artist, so they prefer to come up with both the interior of the apartment and the design of the dress themselves.

22. Repairs in apartments are also done mainly with their own hands, without hiring workers.

23. Icelanders are crazy about Eurovision, they take the competition for young performers very seriously, and during the live broadcast the whole country watches what is happening on TV.

24. There are no McDonald's restaurants in Iceland; the last one closed in 2008 during the crisis.

25. The most popular names in Iceland: male - Jon and female - Guvrun. Old mythological names are also still common, such as aðalsteinn, which means "main stone".

26. Icelanders, like Russians, like to use abbreviated rather than full versions of names in everyday life, so David in the diminutive Icelandic version will be Dabby, Guvrun - Gunna, Stefan - Steppie, Jon - Nonny, etc.

27. The language of Iceland has remained virtually unchanged over the past 1000 years, so it contains letters that have disappeared from English, plus the inhabitants of the country can read ancient Viking sagas in the original without any problems.

28. The local population generally loves to read; today, according to some sources, Icelanders are the most reading people in the world.

29. The cost of wine in Iceland is often influenced not by the year of its production or quality, but by strength. Thus, an expensive but light French wine can cost several times less than a 15-degree babble.

30. Not in Iceland armed forces, their functions are performed to some extent by the coast guard.

31. Police in Iceland do not carry weapons and are not issued pistols.

32. Residents of Reykjavik, for the most part, are terrible at parking; they can abandon their car right across the street. The presence of tow trucks and fines for parking in the wrong place are of little help.

33. Icelanders try to use only renewable energy sources; gas and gasoline are used here only to fuel cars and boats, and this is because electric cars have not taken root in the country.

34. There is no need to pay for water in restaurants and cafes; it is still poured from the tap. This is water from local thermal springs, and therefore it is absolutely suitable for drinking.

35. But hot tap water in Iceland smells like rotten eggs. The fact is that it also enters the water supply system directly from hot thermal springs, and they are rich in hydrogen sulfide.

36. Taking a hot thermal bath is a popular evening activity in Reykjavik; the cost of visiting when purchasing a subscription is about 5 euros.

37. In the houses of Iceland, as in Russia, there is a central heating system, which distinguishes the country favorably from Italy or France, where you have to pay for each time you turn on the heater.

38. Until the seventies of the twentieth century, Icelandic legislation allowed residents of the country to kill Turks with impunity. This is due to the fact that in the past, Turkish pirates often robbed Icelandic ships and coastal villages.

39. To this day, Icelandic legislation allows residents of the country to kill polar bears for food.

40. Liquorice is very popular in Iceland; it is added to any dish, plus they produce chocolates filled with licorice.

41. The national dish of Iceland is hakarl - rotten Greenland shark meat cut into small pieces. If you don’t chew it and just swallow it, it’s still quite edible, but if you chew the meat, you’ll feel the “magical” taste of urea. The fact is that the Greenland shark does not have a urinary tract and its meat contains poisonous ammonia. In order for the meat to be eaten, it is left to rot underground or in a basement for three months. The creators of The Simpsons mocked the taste of this dish in one of the episodes of the animated series.

42. In Iceland they eat mainly fish, and all dishes are topped with mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup, after which the real taste of fish may not be recognized.

43. Most Icelanders have very bad teeth, and Iceland is one of the main sugar-consuming countries, and they also love Coca-Cola.

44. Most Icelanders still believe in elves and trolls, which leads to difficulties when building a house or road. Before starting construction, local “witches” are consulted to determine whether this or that stone can be moved, or whether an elf lives under it. Sometimes, in order not to “offend” the elf and move the stone, Icelanders have to perform magical rituals, for example, keeping the stone in honey for some time.

45. 2,148 people in Iceland adhere to the pagan teachings of the Ásatrú Association, which is based on the revival of Icelandic and Norwegian pagan beliefs. This religion is officially accepted, and its ministers can perform a wedding ceremony, which is equivalent to traditional marriage registration.

46. ​​In addition to the well-known Santa Claus, in Iceland there are 15 more Santa Clauses of different types, by and large they are all elves in whom they believe local residents.

47. Every major store in Reykjavik has a children's playground.

48. All Icelanders wear lopapeysa - a knitted sheep's wool jacket with a characteristic national pattern. We can say that this is the very example of a national costume that has not disappeared over time.

49. Icelanders are proud to have the oldest undissolved parliament in the world, it is called Alþingi and was founded in 930.

50. Residents of Iceland are very trusting; when applying for a job, they do not ask a foreigner for recommendations from a previous place of work, but simply take the newcomer’s word for it.

51. In the Icelandic Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, so-called “necropants” made from the flayed skin of the lower body of a dead person are on display. To receive them, the Icelandic sorcerer had to secure the person’s consent during his lifetime, and after death, dig up the body from the grave and rip off the skin in one piece. Then the ritual required stealing a coin from the widow and placing it in the scrotum of the necropants along with a special sign drawn on a piece of paper. It was believed that wearing such pants would allow you to quickly get rich.

52. Every Icelandic citizen has access to the Íslendingabók website, a genealogical database containing information about the family ties of all Icelanders since the 18th century. The task of compiling such a database could be solved thanks to the not very large population of the state (just over 300 thousand) and the fact that Iceland throughout its history was weakly influenced by both emigration and immigration. Many young people use this site to check if their new lover is their first cousin, to rule out the possibility of incest. Another popular use of the site is to check your relationship to famous people. For example, every Icelander can find out how many generations later he is related to Björk.

53. The most famous representatives of Icelandic folklore are the Huldufólk, or hidden people, who are often identified with elves. According to legends, these creatures hide in the mountains, although some Icelanders build small houses for them in their gardens and even small churches in order to convert the elves to Christianity. Sometimes in Iceland, building or utility projects are changed to avoid disturbing the supposed habitats of the elves, and in 2004 the Alcoa Corporation even had to obtain a certificate from a government expert that the chosen site for an aluminum smelter was free of hidden people. Surveys show that the number of Icelanders who accept or are confident in its existence is greater than those who doubt or completely deny elves.

54. Iceland is predominantly inhabited by coastal areas, and people travel around the country mainly along the coastal strip. Historically, Icelanders refer to the northwest edge of the island as west, the northeast edge as north, the eastern edge as east, and the Reykjavik area as south. Therefore, linguistic incidents are possible: when heading from the northwestern outskirts towards the northeastern outskirts, an Icelander says that he is going “north”, although in fact he is moving east, and when heading from the southwestern outskirts towards Reykjavik, i.e. in fact to the north, the Icelander says he is going “south”.

55. Until the 1990s, Iceland had a law according to which a foreigner wishing to take Icelandic citizenship must adopt an Icelandic name or change his name according to the traditions of the Icelandic language. But exceptions were made for celebrities. When the Soviet conductor and pianist Vladimir Ashkenazy emigrated to Iceland, the country's government added a new name to the official list of permitted names: “Vladimir Ashkenazy.”

56. In Scandinavian countries, dishes made from rotten or fermented fish are common. For example, the Icelandic dish hakarl is made from rotten shark meat, and the Swedish surströmming is made from sour herring.

57. Most residents of Iceland do not have a surname that is familiar to us, but are identified by their first and patronymic names. For example, Magnus Karlsson is Magnus, the son of Karl, and Anna Karlsdottir is Anna, the daughter of Karl.

59. In the Scandinavian countries (Norway and Iceland) the highest birth rate in Europe is among the indigenous population, not the immigrant population. The Scandinavians initially relied on improving the quality of life of the child, and not on increasing the number of births.

60. Detifoss waterfall, located in Iceland, is considered the most powerful waterfall Europe: per second it discharges about 500 m³ of water. The splashes from it are visible at a distance of a kilometer, and in sunny weather the waterfall is certainly decorated with a rainbow.

62. For a long time, negotiations between representatives of the Scandinavian countries were conducted “in Scandinavian style” (in Swedish, Norwegian or Danish), but in last years Scandinavian languages ​​are increasingly being replaced by English at the request of representatives of Finland and Iceland

63. The largest glacier in Europe, Vatna Jökul (“glacier that gives water”, 8.5 thousand sq. km, which is equal to the area of ​​​​all glaciers of the European subcontinent) is located in the southeast of the country.

64. According to European Union statistics, more than 25% of the energy consumed by Scandinavians comes from renewable sources. For comparison, we note that for other European countries this figure is, on average, only six percent.

65. According to experts, Iceland, Germany and Norway finance health care the most - more than 9% of the state budget.

66 Reykjavik is the northernmost metropolis in the world (64 north latitude), founded in 874. Reykjavik got its name from the eruption of geothermal steam from geothermal springs, and it literally means “Smoky Bay”.

67. The widest “boiling” river in the world is Deidartunguver north of Reykjavik. The water consumption in these cascades of boiling water gushing from hot springs is 225 liters. per second.

68. The longest living creature on Earth was found off the coast of Iceland. It turned out to be a mollusk. Scientists counted the number of rings on its shell and found that the creature’s age is 405-410 years.

69. The territory of Iceland covers 103,300 square meters. km, of which glaciers occupy 11,000 sq. km, and the lakes are 2,700 sq. km. The country is rich in forests, stretching over an area of ​​about

1,511 sq. km. The largest lake in the country is called Dingvallavatn, and the highest peak is Hvannadalshnukur.70. The country has a population of more than 300,000 people, of which about 150,000 people live in the capital. Part of the population settled along the coastal areas. Many inland regions of the country are not suitable for habitation. The average life expectancy of Icelanders is 80 years.

71. Because Iceland has many volcanoes, 30 of which have erupted in the last two hundred years, they are used to produce geothermal energy. The rivers flowing through the country provide it with hydroelectric energy. Since there are many rivers here with hot water, the country receives heating that does not pollute the environment.

72. The Scandinavians settled in Iceland at the beginning of the 9th century. The founder of the capital is the Norwegian Viking Ingólfur Arnarson. Thus, people here use the Viking language, which was refined by many civilizations. Residents of the island bear their father's names rather than their surnames. Consequently, members of the same family have different surnames, which can confuse foreigners.

73. Icelanders use the heritage of antiquity by introducing some modern changes. They live in perfect harmony. There are many artists in the country who are specialists in the art of singing and composing.

74. At different times of the year, many colorful festivals are held here, and thematic exhibitions are often organized. The country has excellent culinary traditions, where seafood delicacies occupy an important place.75. Iceland is one of the first countries in the world to have a republican government. The country is now governed by a parliament called the Althing, which consists of 63 members. These members are elected every four years. The head of state has no influence on the country's politics.

76. The country's economy largely depends on fishing. Most people in the country work in the fishing industry and other related industries. Today's government is focusing on the tourism industry, and the second largest industry, close to fishing, is the export industry. The bulk of the country's income comes from seafood exports.

77. Iceland is a recognized member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).78. Many activities on the island are attracting more and more tourists. These include whale watching, bird watching, hiking, horse riding, skiing, cycling, fishing, kayaking and glacier excursions.

79. Less than one percent of the world's population will be able to pronounce the word Eyjafjallajukutl. This is Iceland's most famous volcano. Of the several thousand people surveyed, only 0.005% were able to pronounce this word.

80. From July 1, 2010, striptease was banned in Iceland. Today, this is the only European country where this type of dance is prohibited.81. Despite the strong physical condition of the majority of the population, the most widespread sport in the country is chess. In 1931, parliament was dissolved for vacation due to the arrival of the famous Russian chess player Alexei Alekhine.

82. Today, more than 11% of Iceland's territory is covered by glaciers. Parliament in Iceland has been in operation since the tenth century, namely 930, and is considered the oldest working parliament in the world. It still works today.

83. Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, the most northern capital planet Earth. Back in the ninth century, the first settler of the island built a farm on the site of the capital, from which the country began to expand in all directions. His name was Ingolf Arnarson. Translated from the ancient Celtic language, Reykjavik reads “Smoking Bay”.84. In 1963 new island Surtsey appeared in the ocean off the southern coast of Iceland as a result of a volcanic eruption.

86. Iceland is the most big Island of volcanic origin.

87. The Scandinavians settled in Iceland at the beginning of the 9th century. The first settler is the Norwegian Viking Ingólfur Arnarsson.

88. Iceland produces 4 times more books per capita than the United States.

89. In Iceland there is a special phallic museum, which displays 150 penises of more than 40 species of mammals, as well as a collection of related objects. There is no human phallus on display yet, but the museum curator has already secured consent to receive this exhibit after death from an eighty-year-old farmer who is still in a “sexual” state.

90. The central part of the island in winter is so harsh and so similar to the lunar landscape that NASA worked with its astronauts to reach the surface of the Moon in Central Iceland.

91. Vigdís Finnbogadóttir is the first female president in Europe and the second in the world. Icelanders are very proud of this fact. She was elected in 1980 and remained as president for 4 terms, until 1996.

92. The area of ​​the country is 7 times larger than the area of ​​the Moscow region.

93. The 1 Icelandic krona coin features a cod, the 10 krona coin features a herring, the 50 krona coin features a crab, and the 100 krona coin features a sea bass. The Icelandic currency is called isk in abbreviation.

94. There are no trees in Iceland. Or rather, there are individual trees and artificial plantings, but there are no dense forests. The first Icelandic settlers are to blame for this. When the field was exhausted they burned new site forests and sowed barley on it. Gradually, the forests on the island disappeared, and today soil erosion is one of the main problems of the country.

95. Icelanders are very proud of their language, and in every possible way resist what they consider to be the harmful influence of other languages ​​on Icelandic. There is even a special language commission, the main goal of which is to protect Icelandic from the penetration of foreign words. When any foreign concept or definition comes into use in the country, the commission specially invents or finds an Icelandic equivalent for it.

96. There are few cats in Iceland.

97. There are no railways in Iceland. It is preferable to travel on regular roads in Iceland in a 4x4 jeep. Optimally - on a super jeep with huge wheels, more than a meter long.

98. The pride of Iceland and one of its national symbols is the Blue Lagoon. This is a completely unique geothermal lake located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in the southwestern part of Iceland. The size of the lake is about 200m wide and several kilometers long. The water temperature in it is +37 °C all year round. The bottom of the lagoon is covered with black basalt sand and silica - white soft mud. Every year the lake is visited by more than 300 thousand people.

99. The most famous inhabitant of Iceland is ( remember the gift to her from the country). This elf-like singer definitely became a symbol of Iceland in the 90s.

100.Iceland received its name from a Norwegian Viking named Floki, who, having seen icebergs off the coast of the island, began to call it Iceland.101. A traditional Icelandic souvenir is the Icelandic Lopi sweater with a distinctive circular design around the neck. As souvenirs for foreigners, these sweaters are knitted from soft imported wool. The sweater is made from real Icelandic wool and is quite scratchy.

102.Iceland is a very literate country. In addition to their native language, 100% of residents also know English language. In terms of the number of books per inhabitant, Iceland ranks 1st in the world. Icelanders say that if your life has meaning, then there should be books in it. To prove the truth of this statement, all Icelanders write. Some of them become professional writers, and in general writing is a national pastime.103. There are practically no predators or mice on the island, but there are countless fish off the coast in the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. The country's economy is heavily dependent on fishing. Fish export is the main item in foreign trade. Fisherman is the only well-paid profession in the country. Fishermen earn five times more than university teachers.

104. The number of sheep in Iceland is more than 800 thousand. In the summer, they are driven out to graze freely in the mountain meadows, and in the fall, rural youth, on small, hardy ponies, accompanied by dogs, go in search of sheep. Based on the marks on the ears, the sheep are returned to their owners.

105. Icelanders love water very much. Most Icelanders are happy to walk in the rain without an umbrella. Reykjavik has seven large public swimming pools that are filled from morning to evening. A mandatory attribute of every pool is a huge “tub” under open air with hot water from geothermal springs. A public swimming pool is a must in any town or village.

Iceland is a rich state with an independent foreign policy, high level life, amazing beautiful nature, hospitable residents. But migrants and even tourists from Russia are an extremely rare phenomenon in this country. It is too far away, near the Arctic Circle, on secluded island. And its inhabitants also speak a terribly difficult language, which no one understands except themselves. Is it worth traveling to this country and even moving there permanently? To answer this question, information about the legislation of Iceland, the well-being of ordinary people, the climate, as well as the life of the few Russian migrants will be useful.

Migration policy

Iceland is not a state that encourages migrants. The country has a very strict policy towards people who want to stay here. In addition, the influx of migrants is prevented by the Law on Preservation of the Nation. The stay of foreigners in Iceland is regulated by the Aliens Act and the Aliens' Right to Work Act. Citizens of the country practically do not marry foreigners, and residents of non-Icelandic origin make up only 6% of the total population. Visitors are strictly obliged to respect the cultural characteristics of the country. Any decision regarding the fate of foreigners is made by the Immigration Directorate. Interestingly, at the beginning of the twentieth century, the laws of Iceland even obliged immigrants to change their names to their original Icelandic ones. Only since the nineties of the last century have foreigners living in the country been allowed to leave their own names and surnames. Migration growth in Iceland is very small - just over 1% over the past few years. In total, there are about 20 thousand foreigners out of 330 thousand people. Migration quotas are used to repopulate abandoned villages with newcomers. They are often abandoned by Icelanders, moving to cities due to urbanization.

Video: about life in Iceland

What types of migrants are there in Iceland?

There is no massive influx of foreigners into the country, although many Europeans work on the construction of various projects. Mostly these are Germans and Poles. The donor countries where people who stay here for permanent residence are from are Germany, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Poland. That is, these are citizens of neighboring states. Poles make up more than half of all immigrants. The number of Polish migrants is also indicated by the fact that there are two Polish shops in Reykjavik - a rather rare occurrence for Iceland. Poles and Lithuanians barely speak Icelandic and are not integrated into society. The National Preservation Act does not oblige the government to facilitate this integration. Migrants from other continents are also present in Iceland, but in very small numbers. These are mainly citizens of China, Thailand, and the Philippines. But unlike migrants from Europe, foreigners from poorer countries have temporary residence status. Thus, immigrants in Iceland are divided into two groups:

• migrant workers from Western, Northern and Central Europe,
• a very small number of people have received refugee status.

But it is possible that the immigration situation in Iceland will change in the coming years. The country is experiencing economic growth, and there are no longer enough workers. This shortcoming will be difficult to compensate for by natural population growth, because Iceland is one of the “aging nations” and more than half of its residents are pensioners. Therefore, according to the organization Business Iceland SA, which unites the country's largest corporations, Iceland must invite about two thousand specialists from abroad per year so that the level of well-being does not fall. This is especially true for the tourism business, where foreigners have been hired for a long time. The small population also leads to the fact that consanguineous marriages begin to take place, and this leads to genetic diseases. Therefore, the government begins to encourage alliances with foreigners.

Iceland and refugees

The decision to grant foreigners refugee status is made by the Immigration Directorate. If it is positive, the applicant is granted a temporary residence permit. They issue it for a period of one year, but then this status can be extended almost automatically. During the procedure for considering the application, applicants are accommodated in boarding houses and hotels. They receive financial assistance of approximately 150 euros. But those who managed to obtain refugee status cannot officially work. It is very difficult for them to transport their relatives to Iceland. Since refugees do not work, the country has a program of minimal material support for such people, but after that they have no prospect of becoming Icelandic citizens.

There are no social programs to support migrants. The immigration laws of Iceland are such that it is almost impossible for visitors from “far abroad” to remain for permanent residence. If you want to come here and then move to another European country, you have the right to become a temporary immigrant. In fact, there are two ways to stay in the country permanently:

• receive a job offer (long-term contract);
• get married.

But the Icelanders themselves are not ultranationalists. They are quite friendly and sympathetic towards migrants. During the 2015 Syrian refugee crisis, the Icelandic government said it could only accept 50 refugees. However, more than 12 thousand people through social networks expressed a desire to shelter those in need of help, especially children, and even pay for their plane tickets to Iceland.

Icelandic life as it is

Due to its isolation, Iceland differs from other European countries. Its citizens are considered conservatives, but also keep up with many modern world trends. The descendants of the Vikings, as the Icelanders proudly call themselves, value work very much. Mining, fishing and agriculture are traditionally considered the main sectors of the country's economy. The main wealth of the state is based on these “three pillars”. But recently, the services market, as well as the tourism business, has been rapidly developing in Iceland. Cities are a new phenomenon in this country, but their population is growing. Icelanders are very law-abiding and do not like conflicts. There are practically no accidents here, and drivers wait patiently for a pedestrian to cross the road or for another driver to finish talking on the phone. They are pedantic, like the Germans, but during the celebrations they like to party, drink strong drinks and eat a local “delicacy”, which makes many Europeans’ stomachs ache. This is “haukarl” - rotten shark meat.

A little about politics

Iceland is the only country in the world where, according to the Constitution, residents vote online. Therefore, the state can be considered not only the oldest democracy (the Icelandic parliament was founded in 930), but also the first model of the electronic expression of the will of the people. Iceland has a state religion - the Lutheran Evangelical Church. At the same time, there are about 20% of atheists in the country, as well as 2,500 neo-pagans. Although Icelanders are very conservative, especially when it comes to family traditions, the legalization of same-sex marriage did not cause any protests among them and was received completely calmly. Therefore, Iceland can be called a state where a certain balance is maintained between traditions and modernization, globalization and a unique cultural heritage. The prime minister of the country was an open lesbian - Johanna Sigurdardottir, but at the same time 96% of the population trust politicians. About 80% of voters vote in elections.

Happy people

To understand whether Iceland's citizens are living well, you need to know the statistical facts about per capita income or GDP. You should also compare these data with the opinion of those living in this country about their standard of living. 80% of Icelanders are officially employed, which is an excellent European figure. An ordinary family, after deducting all taxes, receives a net income of about 24 thousand US dollars. Almost every resident has their own home and a car on credit. There are many good social programs for homeless people, troubled teenagers or people with disabilities. But such people can be counted on one hand, and social service workers know them all by name. The average annual salary is about $40,000 per year (with taxes) or approximately 3,300 per month. The Icelanders themselves are happy with this amount and even consider their life carefree. But education in the country is not at a very high level - 70% of residents have completed secondary school. There are many pensioners in Iceland, but the retirement age is not officially defined. People can work as long as they want and, on average, retire after age 66. 85% of Icelanders feel satisfied and even happy. This is facilitated by the social model of society, characteristic of the Scandinavian countries, and the environment, and the level of healthcare.

About weather and nature

The climate in Iceland is windy, even very windy. It rains often, and snow falls in winter and spring. But in general, the temperature for the subarctic climate in which the country is located is quite mild. in winter average temperature It stays at about 0°C, and in summer +10°C. This lack of strong temperature changes is explained by the action of the Gulf Stream, a warm current. This country has stunning landscapes. She lives in the middle majestic mountains, glaciers, volcanoes and the amazing beauty of fjords, freezing waterfalls and hot geysers. In summer, all this is illuminated by the bright sun, and in winter - by the northern lights. These landscapes make an amazing impression on visitors. You feel as if you have entered another world. There are almost no trees here, only bushes and grass. You can also stand in the “corridor” between Europe and America - in the Pingvallir Nature Reserve, where the tectonic plates of both continents converge. In 2015, Iceland ranked second in terms of “ecological cleanliness” in the world. Public transport it runs on hydrogen fuel to reduce the percentage of exhaust gases in the atmosphere, and houses are heated with water from hot springs. The same thermal liquid enters the greenhouses, which makes it possible to grow vegetables and fruits, including bananas. By the way, in Iceland you can’t drink except from the sea. The water in lakes, rivers, streams, and from the tap is suitable for drinking. The cleanliness of the air is explained by the minimal number of large industries that can poison it. No wonder the life expectancy of the average Icelander is about 80 years.

How Russians live in Iceland

According to the Russian Embassy in Iceland, there are about three hundred Russian citizens in this country, and Russian-speaking “compatriots”, that is, people from former USSR- approximately a thousand. The Russian community was formed mainly in the 90s of the last century as a result of labor migration, when people independently went out in search of better life. Iceland concluded labor contracts with individual Russians - mainly sports coaches (gymnastics, handball, volleyball, basketball). Russians also moved here, marrying Icelandic citizens.

First of all, the Russian-speaking population is concentrated in the capital of the country - Reykjavik, as there are better job opportunities here. There are Russians who live in small towns - Akureyri, Egilstadir. Some even live in villages. But not all of them are engaged in skilled labor. Most work in the fishing industry, in fish processing enterprises, and on construction sites. A few became translators, doctors, teachers, and sports coaches.

Salaries vary depending on working conditions. Because You can work as a waitress, dishwasher, etc. with free accommodation and meals. Any salary allows you to live with dignity (normally) in Iceland. You can search in the social sphere. assistance - homes for the elderly, assistance to the disabled, hospitals.

http://foreigniceland.forum2x2.ru/t4819-topic#9483

It should be taken into account: the country's laws require that the number of foreigners, especially non-EU citizens, not exceed 49% in certain sectors of the economy - for example, in local airlines.

What is the situation with equality and non-discrimination?

The standard of living of Russians in Iceland corresponds to the social stratum to which they belong. Prices and salaries throughout the country are approximately the same. And after the 2008 crisis, when the national currency fell, the cost of food even decreased. There is no discrimination in wages or hiring. Children can learn Russian in four colleges in Iceland on an optional basis (if they wish), as well as at the University of Iceland. Currently, 20 people are studying Russian there. Several libraries in the country have Russian-language books (mostly the library of the Kopavogur municipality). TV programs in Russian in Iceland can be received via satellite television. These are Channel One-Europe, Vesti, RTR-Planeta.

The first public organization uniting Russian speakers was created in October 2007. It's called "Community." Organization of Russian-speaking compatriots in Iceland." This organization is a rather motley group of people who often have opposing interests. It is quite formal, and many Russians living in Iceland rarely communicate with each other.

Adaptation of Russians in Iceland (reviews)

Arriving in Iceland, Russians are mostly shocked by the prices for housing and food - in this country they are higher than the European average and even than in Moscow. Another “stumbling block” is the need to learn Icelandic. He is very difficult and original. Since the language has remained virtually unchanged for several centuries, any Icelander can easily read the early medieval saga. Although most local residents speak English, it is impossible to find a good job and become part of this society without knowing the language.

In Iceland I feel no worse than in my homeland, the only problem is the language, but I will work on it.

IneShock

http://valhalla.ulver.com/f300/t13237.html

However, working conditions, attitude towards people, a measured and calm rhythm of life do their job - the majority of Russians who find themselves in Iceland do not intend to leave there. Although some complain of boredom and monotony, and long winters evoke feelings of melancholy and depression.

In Iceland, if life is interesting, it is in a different manner than in “civilized” countries. First of all, there is nature there, which never ceases to amaze you. There are, of course, few city attractions there, especially outside of Reykjavik, but there are good opportunities for sports and outdoor recreation. Another thing is that the situation there, where nothing changes and nothing happens, can begin to get on your nerves, and then Iceland will become a burden.

dearron

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The nuances of getting a job

In order for Russians to get a job, they must have official permission. The most popular options for obtaining such a permit are to be a professional athlete or a qualified specialist (for example, a seismologist). Moreover, in the latter case, the employer must prove that there are neither Icelanders nor EU citizens among the applicants. Russian emigrants are also hired for seasonal work. The latter can mean not only work, for example, on a farm, but also a job in travel company. The season usually starts in April and ends in September. But such jobs, as a rule, necessarily require knowledge of the Icelandic language. There are Russians who are hired as engineers by large companies. Then you have to know English perfectly, since all documentation is usually not only in Icelandic - it is often duplicated in two languages. It is possible not to learn Icelandic only on construction sites, where the majority of workers are Poles and Lithuanians.

About wages and workers' rights

Wherever Russian emigrants work, they always receive decent pay, on average no less than the native residents of the country. When applying for a job, they are asked to sign a collective labor agreement, which spells out all the nuances of cooperation with the employer. In order to read this agreement carefully, it is also very important to know the Icelandic language. If conflicts arise, disagreements in the interpretation of the contract and other problems, contact the trade union, which protects the rights of workers, regardless of their origin. In general, Iceland has a five-day work week and hourly wages. It is not customary to work overtime because such work is expensive and employers do not like to pay for it.

Unlike other European countries, there are no illegal workers in Iceland. This Island state with such a small population that a foreign worker would not go unnoticed. He is quickly identified and sent back, without the right to enter not only Iceland, but also the European Union. If Russian emigrants do not find work or lose it, they apply for benefits, which are paid in amounts decent for any European country.

Citizenship, benefits and lack of bureaucracy

After three years If you are legally in Iceland and have a job, you can apply for permanent residence. And after seven years of legal life, Russian migrants are already thinking about obtaining an Icelandic passport. Moreover, since 2003, dual citizenship has been allowed in the country.

Russian migrants who left for permanent residence in connection with marriage to an Icelander can apply for a passport of this country after four years of legal cohabitation (but the total period of legal residence must be at least five years). Since there is no illegal labor in Iceland, those who get a job must become members of a pension fund. But this is for the better, because the pension in Iceland is decent.

Russian pensioners are no different from Icelandic ones in their well-being, and therefore their income depends solely on how much and where they worked and when they went on vacation. Russian pensioners live there, in Iceland, but sometimes, following the example of local elderly people, they move to warmer climes. They are all exceptionally well provided for here.

Having children in Iceland is beneficial, including for migrants. The state stimulates an increase in the birth rate and pays significant benefits. Everything in the country is computerized. Therefore, no matter where people live, they do not need to go to the “center” to receive benefits, apply for necessary documents, licenses and certificates. The Internet is available anywhere, even on remote farms, and everything you need, including tax returns, is submitted electronically. Therefore, Russian migrants can arrange everything they need “on the spot” and without suffering from bureaucracy.

Video: this is what Icelanders are like

How do local residents behave with Russians?

The Icelanders' approach to Russians, and other migrants as well, is restrained and friendly. They are quite open and treat foreigners without any prejudice. Therefore, there are not many conflicts or xenophobia on everyday grounds, and it is easy to make acquaintances. Icelanders are very sociable, and informal relationships, including at work and with superiors, are the order of the day. Since almost everyone in the country knows each other, they will call you by name and will not surround life with unnecessary ceremony. But if you have shown the Icelanders that you are capable of using the openness of society for harm, they will very seriously put you in your place, and from that moment on they will communicate with you completely differently.

I love the Icelandic mentality! maybe he annoys someone, but I just somehow tuned in to this wave right away... Probably the main thing is to respect the country that has become your home, then everything will be just wonderful! The attitude towards foreigners is amazing... I don’t know if there is another country that treats them like this?

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How and how the lives of ordinary people in Iceland and Russia differ

The phrase that the best is learned by comparison has already become a hackneyed phrase. Therefore, in order to better understand the difference in living standards between Iceland and Russia, the situation in these countries should be compared based on the main indicators. Although such a comparison will in many ways not be entirely correct. If only because in Iceland there are no regional differences between prices and wages, while in Russia they are very large. But let's try.

Table: comparison of prices for food, rental housing and wages in Russia and Iceland

So, if we compare prices for basic food products, then in Iceland a grocery basket will cost much more. Rental prices are also higher. But utilities in Iceland are cheaper due to the use of thermal springs and hydrogen fuel.

The average salary of Icelanders is such that, despite the high cost of food and housing, an ordinary family with children is quite happy with their life. After all, they earn so much more that the difference in price for food, rent and other benefits is not felt. Therefore, the average standard of living in Iceland is higher than in Russia and the rest of Europe (not counting the Scandinavian countries). And if we talk about social security, Iceland is far ahead of Russia. And in terms of safety, Iceland is generally “ahead of the rest of the world.” According to the State Statistics Committee and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation, the number of crimes per year ranges from 2,500 to 3,500, and more than 10 murders are committed per 100,000 inhabitants. And in Iceland the murder rate is 0.3 (for example, in 2013 there was 1 murder). This is the lowest level of violence in Europe. There are about 200 criminals in the Icelandic prison, most of whom are allowed to go home from time to time to see their families. There are 700 police officers in the country who do not carry weapons as unnecessary.

Table: pros and cons of living in Iceland

Living conditions in Iceland look quite attractive for the average Russian, despite the fact that this country is far away and difficult to get to. The legislation here is harsh towards foreigners, the language is the most difficult in Europe, and prices are higher than the Russian average. But stability and security of life, amazing nature clean environment and the friendliness of local residents are important criteria. Although, like any country, Iceland has its drawbacks. Some will find it too boring and insipid, and life here will seem devoid of passions and adrenaline. But in any case, this country is amazing, unusual and fully rewards those who dare to call it their second homeland.

> Iceland

Iceland(Isl. Island) is an island state located in the northern part of the Atlantic Ocean. The territory of the state consists of the island of Iceland and small islands around it. The name of the country literally means ice country. The northern point of Iceland reaches the Arctic Circle, and the southern point, 306 km. from it, located at latitude 63 degrees 24 minutes north. The length of the island from west to east is 480 km.
Square countries 103 thousand sq. km.
Highest point– Mount Hvannadalskhnukur (2119 m).
Population 317,900 people (20,010). Population density – 2.6 people per 1 sq. km. The share of the urban population is 91%, rural – 9%.
Capital– Reykjavik city (118,427 people).
Official language– Icelandic.
State religion- Lutheranism.
Administrative division: consists of 8 villages: Austurland (administrative center - Iglstadur), Westfjordir (Isafjordur), Vesturland (Borgarnes), Nordurland Vastra (Stadur), Nordurland Øystra (Akyureyri), Sjudurland (Selfoss ), Sydurnes (Keflavik), Hofudborgarsvaedi (Reykjavik).
Currency: Icelandic krona
National holiday: The day of the proclamation of the republic is June 17.
Telephone code +354

Republic of Iceland, a state in Northern Europe. Located on the island of the same name, the second largest in Europe. The northern point of Iceland reaches the Arctic Circle, and the southern point, 306 km. from it, located at latitude 63 degrees 24 minutes north. The length of the island from west (13 degrees 28 minutes west) to east (24 degrees 32 minutes west) is 480 km. The area of ​​the country is 103 thousand square meters. km. Population 317,900 people (2010). The capital is Reykjavik (118,427 people).

NATURE

Terrain. Geologically, Iceland is a young country, formed as a result of volcanic eruptions over the past 60 million years (corresponding to the Paleogene, Neogene and Quaternary periods in the history of the Earth). The most ancient parts of the country are located in the west, north and east. These are mainly plateaus composed of ancient basaltic lavas. The plateau-like nature of the surface is best preserved in the north-west, while in the east and north of the central part of the island the relief takes on an alpine appearance. A vast zone extends across the entire country from north to southwest, mainly composed of palagonite tuffs and breccias, which were formed as a result of underwater volcanic eruptions.

A large number of volcanoes are confined to this zone, as well as to the Snæfellsnes region in the west, of which 20 erupted after the settlement of the country. Iceland has almost every type of volcano found on Earth. The most characteristic are chains of craters resulting from eruptions along cracks and faults. In 1783, during the eruption of a volcano of this type, Laki, located southwest of Vatnajökull, the largest one observed on Earth in historical time lava flow. It covered an area of ​​570 square meters. km. To the southwest of Vatnajökull is the Hekla volcano, which erupted in 1947 and 1970. As a result of an underwater eruption at southwest coast The small island of Surtsey arose in Iceland in 1963. In 1973, during a volcanic eruption on the island of Heimaey, the population of the city of Vestmannaeyjar had to be evacuated.

Hot springs scattered throughout the country (there are more than 250 of them) are closely related to volcanic activity. Fields of sulfur fumaroles (solfatars) are confined to areas of young volcanism. Of the gushing springs, the most famous is the Great Geyser, the name of which has become a household name for all such formations. Iceland widely uses thermal energy. 85% of the population lives in houses heated by their waters. In addition, warm water is supplied to numerous greenhouses and swimming pools.

Iceland's coastline is approx. 5 thousand km. In the northwest, north and east, the rocky shores are dissected by numerous bays, fjords and islands. The inner parts of many fjords are lined with hook-shaped pebble spits, which protect natural harbors from storms blowing from the Atlantic Ocean. Coastal cities and towns are often located on such spits. Southwestern and southern shores Iceland - sandy, level; There are no natural harbors there.

Ice caps and other glaciers cover an area of ​​11,900 square meters. km. The largest of the ice caps, Vatnajökull with an area of ​​8300 square meters. km, located in southeast Iceland. This is also where highest point of the country Hvannadalshnukur (2119), which is the raised edge of the caldera of the Éraivajökull volcano. Other major ice caps are Hofsjökull and Langjökull in the interior of the island, and Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull in the south (covering active volcanoes).

Thanks to the abundance of rainfall in Iceland, there is quite a lot large rivers, but they are not navigable. South of Vatnajökull, the rivers branch into branches that often change their position. This is a serious obstacle to transport. During subglacial volcanic eruptions and when ice dams break on subglacial lakes, huge masses of meltwater cause violent floods on rivers. The most large lakes Iceland - Thingvallavatn and Thorisvatn.

Climate. Despite its name and the presence of glaciers, Iceland is by no means an Arctic country. The warm waters of the North Atlantic Current (a continuation of the Gulf Stream), a branch of which runs along the southern and western coasts of the island, have a softening effect on its climate. The average annual temperature on the southwest coast in Reykjavik is 4° C, the average January temperature is –1° C, July is 11° C. The corresponding indicators on the northern coast in Akureyri are 3° C, –2° C and 11° C. Coastal waters are free from ice throughout the year. The exception is situations related to take-out polar ice in the north and east. Due to the significant improvement in climate since the early 1920s, the removal of polar ice to the shores of Iceland occurred only once in 1965. The weather in this country changes dramatically, sometimes within 24 hours, depending on the passage of cyclones eastward through Atlantic Ocean. Average annual precipitation is 1300–2000 mm on the southern coast, 500–750 mm on the northern coast and over 3800 mm on the south-facing slopes of Vatnajökull and Mýrdalsjökull.

Soils and flora. The soils of Iceland are partly mineral, loess type, partly marshy, enriched with mineral material derived from volcanic ash, and partly aeolian, silty and sandy. Less than 1/4 of the country's territory is covered with vegetation (versus 2/3 when the country was settled 1,100 years ago). The vast interior plateaus are almost entirely devoid of vegetation. The vegetation is dominated by mosses and grasses. Until recently, woody plants occupied only 1% of the area. These are mainly birch trees, which usually have twisted trunks due to strong winds. In recent years, significant coniferous plantations have been created in some places.

Animal world. The species composition of Iceland's fauna is poor. At the time the country was settled, there was only one species of land mammal - the arctic fox. At the end of the 18th century. reindeer were introduced. In addition, mice, rats and mink were accidentally introduced to the island. Breeds in Iceland approx. 80 species of birds. On mountain lakes and the rivers are home to many swans, ducks and geese, and on the sea coast gulls, terns, etc. are common. Trout lives in the lakes, and salmon in the rivers. Two species of seals and some species of whales are found in coastal waters. Here are feeding and spawning areas for fish (up to 66 species). The most important are cod, sea bass, haddock, halibut and shrimp.

POPULATION

Demography. Iceland was settled in the 9th and 10th centuries. and since then it has been inhabited mainly by the descendants of the first settlers; later immigration to the island was limited. Until the middle of the 20th century. the majority of the population lived on isolated farms. In the history of the country, sharp declines in the number of inhabitants have repeatedly occurred due to epidemics, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and famine. In the 20th century There was a constant increase in population (by 1.5% per year) and migration of rural residents to cities. Currently, 95% of the population lives in cities and towns, with 40% concentrated in Reykjavik. In the northern part of the country, settlements are concentrated along the coast and in river valleys. 20% of the country's territory is uninhabited.

The average age of the population is 34 years. Age composition: under 15 years old – 22.7%; 15–64 years – 65.4%; over 65 years old – 11.9%. The annual population growth in 2009 was 0.54%. Birth rate - 14.13 per 1000; mortality rate - 6.95 per 1000; infant mortality is 3.5 per 1000. Average life expectancy is 79.8 years.

In 2002, more than 87% of the population belonged to the Evangelical Lutheran Church, more than 4% to other Protestant denominations (primarily Seventh-day Adventists), about 2% to the Roman Catholic Church, 7% to other denominations.

The self-employed population in 2000 was employed in various services (59.5%), fishing and fish processing (11.8%), construction (10.7%), industry (12.9%) and agriculture (5.1%) .

Ethnogenesis and language. Icelanders are predominantly of Scandinavian origin, being mainly descendants of the Vikings who settled on the island in the early Middle Ages. Part of the population are descendants of Celts from Ireland and Scotland. The Icelandic language, which is essentially a dialect of Old Norse, has changed little in 1000 years, and modern Icelanders can easily read the ancient texts. Only 6% of the population are people of foreign origin.

Cities. The capital of the country is Reykjavik, the seat of parliament and government, the financial, cultural and business center of Iceland. Other big cities– Kopavogur (30,314 inhabitants), Hafnarfjörður (25,872 thousand), Akureyri (17,563 thousand).

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

The Constitution of the Republic of Iceland was adopted in 1944. Significant changes were made in 1991. The country is a republic. The head of state and parliament are elected by universal suffrage, with all citizens of the country, men and women over 18 years of age, who have lived in Iceland for at least 5 years before the election, having the right to vote.

The President and the Government. The head of state is the president, elected for a four-year term by universal direct and secret suffrage. When there is only one candidate for president, there is no voting and the candidate automatically becomes president. The President of Iceland is the head of the highest executive branch, but in reality his powers are limited and largely formal. Since August 1, 1996, the President of Iceland has been Olafur Ragnar Grimsson. Born in 1943, he studied economics and political science in Manchester (UK), and worked as a professor of political science in Iceland from 1973 to 1991. In 1978 he was first elected as a member of parliament from the People's Union, and from 1987–1995 he was chairman of this party. In 1988–1991 he served as Minister of Finance; While holding this position, he managed to achieve a significant reduction in inflation and is considered the “father of economic stabilization.” In 1996 he won the presidential election, receiving more than 41% of the vote. In 2000, due to the lack of other candidates, the Icelandic parliament declared him president of the country for a new term.

With the consent of parliament, the president instructs the leader of the parliamentary majority to form a government and approves its composition. He presides over the State Council.

Executive power belongs to the government, headed by the prime minister. Ministers are responsible to Parliament. Prime Minister of Iceland since 1991 – David Oddson. Born in 1948, studied law and worked as a lawyer. From 1973 to 1975 he was a member of the Board of the youth organization of the Independence Party (IP), from 1974 he was a member of the Reykjavik City Council, and in 1982 he was elected mayor of the capital. Since 1989, Oddson has been deputy chairman, and since 1991, chairman of the PN, in 1991 he was elected from it to parliament.

Parliament. Legislative power according to the constitution belongs to the president and parliament. The Parliament of Iceland, the Althing, is considered the oldest in the world. Elected by universal suffrage for a term of four years. Until 1991, the Althing consisted of two chambers: elected deputies elected 1/3 of their members to the Upper House, the rest formed the Lower House. Since 1991, the Althing has been unicameral. It currently consists of 63 deputies who are elected on the basis of proportional representation across national and local constituencies. The Althing approves the state budget, discusses and adopts laws, amends and amends the constitution, gives consent to the president to conclude treaties and agreements with other states, and controls the financial activities of the executive authorities. Parliament can pass a vote of no confidence in the government, renders big influence on foreign and trade and economic policy.

Political parties. The Independence Party (IP) is the country's largest political party. Founded in May 1929 as a result of the unification of the Conservative and Liberal parties. The PN dominates Icelandic political life and has been involved in most Icelandic governments. In the field of economics, the People's Republic has always advocated limiting the role of the state in economic matters and benefits for entrepreneurs. In her opinion, the main function of the state in the economy is not direct intervention, but the creation of favorable conditions for economic activity, development of research, etc. According to the 2003 election manifesto, the PN seeks to reduce taxes and public debt, increase business activity, strengthen competitiveness and diversify the Icelandic economy. She intends to “simplify” the social insurance system and maintain the efficiency of the pension system. Declares its intention to increase child benefits, pensions and assistance to the disabled. Calls for increased competition in education and the development of private medicine.

In the area of ​​security, it places emphasis on strengthening the police. In foreign policy, the party defended joining NATO and maintaining American troops on Icelandic territory. She currently advocates strengthening cooperation with NATO and the United States, which she recognizes as the bloc's "leading power." Considers it necessary to develop relations with the EU, but speaks out against joining it.

In the 2003 parliamentary elections, she collected 33.7% of the vote and won 22 of the 63 seats in the Althing. Party leader David Oddson has been Prime Minister since 1991.

The Progressive Party (PP) is centrist, founded in 1916 by the leaders of the cooperative movement and enjoys the greatest influence among the country's farmers. She advocated the development of the national economy, controlled attraction of foreign investment and subsidies to farmers. Supports the country's membership in NATO, although there were forces within its ranks that sought greater foreign policy independence.

Until 1995, it most often acted as an opponent of the PN in the country’s political arena. However, since 1995 it has been part of the coalition government as a junior partner of the PN. In the 2003 elections, the party collected 17.7% of the vote and received 12 seats in the Althing. The leader of the PP is Halldor Asgrimsson.

The Social Democratic Alliance (SDA) was formed in 2001 as a result of the merger of the Social Democratic Party of Iceland (founded in 1916), the People's Union (created in 1968 on the basis of the communist United Socialist Party) and the Women's List. Declares its commitment to the goals and methods of the social democratic movement, the principles of freedom and democracy, women's liberation, equality and social responsibility. According to its 2001 manifesto, the alliance advocates “a society that gives every individual the opportunity to enjoy the full range of opportunities in life and at the same time learns to provide the same opportunities to others.” Seeks to expand democracy and participation of the population in government. Social Democrats call for “equality through mutual assistance”, for ensuring for all members of society the right to healthcare, education and other social services, to a decent life, regardless of their financial situation. In the foreign policy area, SDA is for turning Iceland into a “window open to the world”, for developing international cooperation and helping less developed countries.

The Left-Green Alliance (LGA) is an association of independent leftists, activists of public service unions, teachers, students, former members of Trotskyist and Maoist groups, participants in the environmental movement, various non-governmental organizations and civil initiatives. Created in the late 1990s. Opposes neoliberal government policies, against privatization and commercialization of social services, in defense of the environment and human rights, for justice, equality and social security. In the 2003 elections he received 8.8% of the vote and won 5 seats in the Althing. Is in opposition. The leader is Steingrimur Sigfusson.

The Liberal Party (LP) was formed in 1998 by former minister Sverrir Hermansson. He defends the free market system and rejects centralization and government intervention in the economy. Calls for the promotion of free competition and entrepreneurship, for the reduction of government spending and taxes, for the elimination of the income tax and the introduction of consumption taxes. At the same time, he declares his condemnation of the neoliberal policies of the Icelandic government and his intention to continue helping the elderly, sick and disabled, resist the curtailment of medical programs, and invest in the development of education. He advocates maintaining the role of NATO and strengthening cooperation with Europe. In the 2003 elections, the liberals received 7.4% of the vote and 4 seats in the Althing. They are in opposition. Chairman - Gudjon Kristjansson.

Local control. Iceland is divided into 23 districts (suslur) and 14 urban districts (køupstadir). Each of them is governed by a council of representatives from the parishes. Parishes have their own councils. All councils are elected by general vote.

Judicial system. The country has 8 district courts and a Supreme Court, whose members are appointed for life by the Minister of Justice. In addition, there are special courts for maritime, labor and religious matters.

Armed forces. Iceland does not have its own armed forces, but the US Air Force is stationed on its territory (Keflavik base). The country has a police force and a coast guard.

Foreign policy. Iceland is a member of NATO, Northern Council, the Council of Europe, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, the European Free Trade Association, the UN and its specialized organizations, as well as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

Iceland has diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation (established with the USSR in October 1943).

ECONOMY

For most of the country's history, its economy was based on fishing and agriculture. After World War II, the importance of fishing and the fish processing industry increased. There has been some diversification of the Icelandic economy,

Economic growth in 1996–2001 was 3–5% per year. In 2002, the country suffered from the global economic recession, industrial growth was only 0.2%, and GDP fell by 0.6%. In 2003, economic growth resumed, inflation fell from 5% to 2%.

GDP in 2002 amounted to more than 8.4 billion US dollars (30,200 US dollars per capita). The unemployment rate in 2002 was 2.8%.

Agriculture. Cultivated land occupies less than 1% total area countries Only 5% of the amateur population is employed in agriculture. The country has approx. 6 thousand farms, 80% of which belong to private individuals. The main livestock industry is sheep breeding (450 thousand in 1996); Lamb is the main meat food in Iceland and is also an export item, along with wool and sheep skins. There are also significant numbers of cattle (73 thousand) and poultry (350 thousand), goats, pigs, black foxes, minks and ponies are bred.

The farms produce hay and grow potatoes, turnips, cabbage and other vegetables. Greenhouse farming (cucumbers, tomatoes, other vegetables, flowers, bananas, etc.) is being developed on the basis of geothermal sources. The government pays farmers significant subsidies.

Fishing and fish processing. This industry employs 12% of the population and accounts for 70% of the country's export earnings. The main commercial objects are cod (in the waters off the southwestern coast from January to May), herring (at north coast from June to September), etc. Due to the decrease in catches of herring and cod and the reduction in fish resources of the North Atlantic, the importance of capelin and pollock has increased in recent years. The fish catch in 1996 was 2 thousand tons.

Motor boats with trawls are widely used in fishing. Cod is processed primarily in Reykjavik; herring is salted and processed into fish oil and fishmeal in Siglúfjörður and other towns on the northern coast.

In 1989, under international pressure and the threat of a boycott of Icelandic goods, Iceland agreed to join a moratorium on whaling. In the mid-1990s, the government approved the resumption of whaling on a limited scale.

Manufacturing industry. Industry began to develop only after the Second World War. Currently, about a third of the population works there. There is virtually no mining industry (apart from small mining of brown coal, pumice and Iceland spar). Since the late 1960s, aluminum has been produced from imported raw materials (aluminum dioxide); the resulting metal is exported. The main industrial sector is fish processing, production of fillets and fresh frozen fish. There are shipyards and ship repair enterprises serving the fishing fleet. They produce ready-made clothes, shoes, metal products, electrical equipment, furniture and building materials. There is a mineral fertilizer factory (near Reykjavik), cement factory(in Akranes). Since 1979, the production of ferrosilicon (an alloy of iron and silicon) has been established.

International trade. Until recently, foreign trade was characterized by a negative balance, since Iceland did not have significant natural resources and depended on the import of petroleum products and food products. This trend has now been reversed. In 2002, the value of exports reached $2.3 billion and imports reached $2.1 billion.

The main export product is fish and fish products (70%). Agricultural products, aluminum, diatomite, and ferrosilicon are also exported. Main partners: Germany (18%), UK (17.5%), Netherlands (11%), USA (11%), Spain (5%), Denmark (5%), Portugal (4%), Norway (4 %).

Machinery and equipment, petroleum products, food products, textiles, etc. are imported into Iceland. Main partners: USA (11%), Germany (11%), Denmark (8.5%), Norway (85), UK (7.5%), Netherlands (6%), Sweden (6%).

Energy. Iceland has large reserves of hydroelectric power. Potential hydropower generation is estimated at 80 billion kWh per year. Currently, only 6% of hydropower resources are used. In addition, there is a huge potential for geothermal energy, which is widely used in municipal and greenhouse farming. Over half of Iceland's energy needs were met by imported oil. Previously, oil came from the USSR, now mainly from Great Britain and Norway. Of the total reserves of technologically accessible resources, only 70% is advisable to exploit for financial reasons. Energy production in 1994 amounted to 5 billion kW, of which hydroelectric power accounted for 95%. At the end of the 20th century. Energy consumption in Iceland has increased by an average of 7% annually. Approximately half of the energy generated was consumed by energy-intensive industries. A third of energy consumption was met by imported fuel. Even with a higher level of energy development in the country, the fishing fleet will remain the main consumer of imported oil.

Transport.

Motor transport. Not in Iceland railways, but there is an extensive network of roads total length 12,955 km. There are regular bus services between many cities and towns. Many families have cars. In 1996, there were 125 thousand cars in the country, that is, one for every two residents.

Sea transport. The total displacement of merchant ships is 192 thousand tons. There are three large companies operating in the country - Iceland Shipping Company, State Shipping Company and Cooperative Shipping Company. Steamboats and motor vessels regularly travel between coastal cities and towns. Sea connections are maintained with the USA, Great Britain, Germany, Denmark and Norway.

Air Transport. Modern Iceland is characterized by rapid development of air traffic. There were two main airlines operating in the country. Flugfelag Islands served domestic flights and connected Iceland with Great Britain, the Scandinavian countries and mainland Europe. Loftleydir operated flights to the USA, Scandinavian countries, Great Britain and Luxembourg. In 1979, the two companies merged to form Flugleydir, or Icelander. There are two international airports - Reykjavik and Keflavik. The latter is used jointly by Iceland and the United States. There are 86 airfields in the country, c. incl. on 13 there are paved paths.

Banking and finance. The currency of Iceland is the krona, equal to 100 eurir. After the Second World War, there was a gradual devaluation of the crown, which was accompanied by a rapid increase in inflation. In 1967, after the devaluation of the British pound sterling, the exchange rate was set at 57 crowns to 1 US dollar. In 1979, the Icelandic krona fell sharply to 352 kroner to the dollar. In the late 1990s, it stabilized at 70 kroner to the dollar.

There are eight large commercial banks in Iceland - National, Central, Fisheries, Agricultural, Industrial, Commercial, Cooperative and People's. Their main offices are in Reykjavik, but there are numerous branches throughout the country. In addition, there are savings banks in all districts.

The state budget. The main sources of government revenue are taxes, customs duties and other payments. The state receives significant revenues from commercial enterprises that it controls, such as postal, telephone and telegraph communications, coastal shipping, as well as a number of monopolies (sale of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products). In addition to normal government spending, the Icelandic government spends on supporting artists and writers and subsidizing agriculture and various industries. Revenues in 2002 amounted to $3.5 billion, expenses - $3.3 billion. External debt in 1999 amounted to $2.6 billion.

Standard of living. After gaining independence, Iceland's economy strengthened significantly and the standard of living of the population increased. In this regard, Iceland was ahead of other Scandinavian countries and became one of the richest countries in the world. In 2001, the country had 197 thousand telephone lines, the number mobile phones exceeded 248 thousand. In 2002, more than 220 thousand Icelanders used the Internet.

Housing construction. Modern Icelanders live in solid, spacious houses with well-functioning heating systems, which are considered to be among the best in the world. In ancient times, farm houses and some city houses were built from peat, but there are virtually none left. Until recently, the main building material was wood, but now it is usually stone and concrete. Due to rapid population growth, especially in the Reykjavík area, government housing programs became necessary and many new houses were built in and around the capital.

Healthcare. Iceland pays a lot of attention to healthcare. Indicators of the state's concern for the health of the population are long life expectancy (76 years for men and 81 years for women at the beginning of 1997) and very low infant mortality (about 5.3 per 1000 births). The country is divided into 50 medical districts. There are 25 hospitals that provide medical care, including operational, at the highest level. Tuberculosis was once a real scourge in Iceland, but it has now been virtually eradicated. There are two sanatoriums and one superbly equipped rehabilitation center, which were previously intended for tuberculosis patients, and then were repurposed. There is a psychiatric clinic in Reykjavik.

SOCIETY

Structure of society. There are virtually no poor people in the country and class stratification is less pronounced than in many other countries. Increased prosperity was accompanied by increased economic and social security and equality.

Icelanders almost always refer to each other by their first names. Accordingly, all telephone and other directories contain names in alphabetical order. The reason is that very few people in Iceland have surnames. For children, the middle name is given by the father's name, with the ending -son (son) for boys and -dóttir (daughter) for girls. Thus, a father and son can have the same middle name if the father and grandfather had the same name.

Icelanders have a great interest in genealogy. Using sagas and ancient documents, it is possible to trace the ancestry of many inhabitants back to the time of the initial settlement of the country, as well as establish complex family ties.

Labor movement. Trade unions play an important role in Iceland's economic life. The first trade union was organized in 1887, and the Trade Union Association in 1916. Radical parties received great support from trade union members. The Employers' Association was created in 1934.

Cooperative movement. In Iceland, as in other Scandinavian countries, the cooperative movement is highly developed, dating back to 1882. Cooperatives were created in all communities, covering 1/5 of the population. However, due to economic difficulties, the cooperative movement began to decline and essentially disintegrated in the 1990s.

Religion. In Iceland, the dominant Evangelical Lutheran Church is supported by the state. At the same time, freedom of religion is ensured. Iceland constitutes one large diocese, with the bishop's seat in Reykjavik, consisting of approximately 300 parishes.

Social Security. Iceland is a welfare state with extensive social programs. Measures for insurance against illness and disability were adopted at the end of the 19th century, and in 1936 an expanded program of social insurance for illness and accidents, unemployment benefits, child support, elderly people and the disabled was approved. The program applies to all Icelandic citizens.

CULTURE

Iceland has a high level of cultural development due to its long literary tradition, high standard of education and the great interest of the entire population in books and reading.

Public education. The very first schools in Iceland were organized at the residences of bishops in Skálholt and Howlar. From Skálholt the school was transferred to Reykjavik in 1784. In the Middle Ages, monasteries were also involved in educational activities, and in later times, priests during visits to houses and peasant farms. Presumably by 1800 all Icelanders could read and write.

Education in public schools is compulsory and free for all children aged 6 to 15 years. Those who graduate from high school are eligible to continue their four-year education at a college or vocational school. The oldest college was established in Reykjavik in 1846.

After graduating from colleges and some schools, you can enter the University of Iceland, founded in 1911. However, even before that, separate faculties existed in Reykjavik - theology (since 1847), medicine (since 1876) and law (since 1908). In addition to these specialties, at the university you can get education in the field of economics and management, in the humanities (linguistics, literary studies, history and philosophy), polytechnic, natural and social sciences. The duration of training in most cases is from 3 to 5 years. New university opened in Akureyri; in addition, there are several small colleges providing education at the university level.

In some fields, Icelandic students have to continue their studies abroad, and the government allocates significant funds for this. The University of Iceland has 5.7 thousand students; another 2.2 thousand complete their education in other countries.

Vocational schools. There are a number of vocational schools in Iceland, for example, pedagogical, commercial, maritime (trains captains of the merchant fleet), arts and crafts, polytechnic and medical in Reykjavik. In other parts of the country there is a developed network of technical, agricultural, music, and home economics schools. All educational institutions receive subsidies from federal and municipal authorities; training is mostly free.

Libraries. National Library in Reykjavik, the largest in the country, has a fund of approximately 340 thousand items, in addition to 13 thousand ancient Icelandic manuscripts. The library of the University of Iceland and the Municipal Library in Reykjavik also stand out in terms of collection size. All other cities and towns have public libraries, and in rural areas there are small libraries and reading rooms. All libraries are usually subsidized by the state.

The science. Iceland has developed research in the humanities - history, linguistics and literary criticism. Among historians of the 19th century. Of note are the statesman Jón Sigurdsson (1811–1879), then Björn M. Olsen (1850–1919) and many others. From literary scholars of the 20th century. Sigurdur Nordahl (1886–1974) and Jón Nelgason (1899–1986) stand out. Natural scientific observations have been carried out for many centuries, but research began to expand widely only in the second half of the 20th century. Björn Gunnlaugsson (1788–1876) composed the first accurate maps Iceland, having a geodetic justification. In the second half of the 19th century. Thorvaldur Thoroddsen (1855–1921) explored and mapped the country's desert interior. The University of Iceland currently employs several outstanding scientists of international recognition.

Literature. Icelanders' vibrant literary tradition dates back to the first centuries after the country's settlement in the early Middle Ages. The initial stage was characterized by the poetry of the skalds; poetic works were composed by Icelandic poets, many of whom were at the courts of the kings of Norway. The Elder (or Song) Edda (1222–1225), a collection of Old Norse mythological and heroic songs, was written at this time. At the end of the 12th century. and during the 13th century. Most of the Icelandic sagas were created. This was the golden age of Icelandic literature. The writings of Sæmund Sigfusson, nicknamed the Wise (1056–1133), in particular his Book of the Icelanders, served as a stimulus for the work of the famous Icelandic historian and poet Snorri Sturluson (1178–1241), author of the Sagas of the Norwegian Kings. He was also the compiler of the Prose (or Prose) Edda, which was a manual for skalds (i.e. a textbook of poetry) and a treatise on the pagan mythology of the Icelanders.

After 1300 the ballad became the most popular literary genre, and the writing of narrative poems (rímur) continued to the present day. Icelandic literature experienced a long decline and then another rise with the work of the hymn writer Hádlgrímur Pétursson (1614–1674) and the nature poet Eggert Olafsson (1726–1768). In the 19th century she went through romantic and realistic periods. Among the romantics, the poets Bjarni Thorarensen (1786–1841), Jonas Hadlgrimsson (1807–1845) and Matthias Jochumsson (1835–1920) stand out, and among the realists who appeared in the second half of the century, the most famous is Einar H. Kvaran (1850–1938).

Since the beginning of the 20th century. the number of recognized poets, playwrights and prose writers increased. Einar Benediktsson (1864–1940), Thorstein Erlingsson (1859–1914) and Hannes Hafstein (1861–1922) were the leading poets of the early century and somewhat earlier. Later came David Stefaunsson (1895–1964) and Thomas Gudmundsson (1901–1983). Gunnar Gunnarsson (1889–1975), one of the most famous modern Icelandic writers, lived for many years in Denmark, and a number of his best novels were written and first published in Danish. Similarly, another prominent writer, Kristman Gudmundsson (1901–1983), lived for a long time in Norway and published a number of his works in Norwegian. Playwright Johan Sigurijousson (1880–1919) wrote his works not only in Icelandic, but also in Danish. One of the greatest Icelandic poets, Stefan G. Stefansson (1853–1927), spent almost his entire life in Canada, but wrote in Icelandic. His poems are considered unsurpassed masterpieces of Icelandic poetry.

From writers of the 20th century. three deserve special mention. Gudmundur G. Hagalin (1898–1985) is a well-known author of novels and stories. Thorbergur Thordarson (1889–1974) was a poet and essayist with a gift for satire. An outstanding place in modern Icelandic literature is occupied by Halldór Kiljan Laxness (1902–1998), author of novels, stories, essays and poems, winner of the 1955 Nobel Prize in Literature.

Art. In medieval Iceland, the most common arts were wood carving, silver jewelry, and stone sculptures to decorate churches. Folk art was expressed in wooden carvings, decorative fabrics and silver jewelry.

Painting. The first modern Icelandic artists were Sigurdur Gudmundsson (1833–1874) and Thorarín Thorlauksson (1867–1924). Sigurdur Gudmundsson founded in 1863 National Museum in Reykjavik. The first prominent and widely recognized Icelandic painter was Ásgrímur Jónsson (1876–1958), who was influenced by Impressionism. The best of the expressionist artists is Jón Stefaunsson (1881–1962), and Johannes S. Kjarval (1885–1972) also stands out. Other well-known painters include Gunnløgur Scheving (1904–1972), Thorvaldur Skulason (1906–1984) and Svavar Gudnason (1909–1988).

Sculpture. Einar Jónsson (1874–1954) was the first Icelandic sculptor to achieve international recognition. His works adorn the streets and squares of Reykjavik. The Einar Jonsson Museum has been established, housing a collection of originals and copies of his works. Among the sculptors of the 20th century. Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893–1982) and Sigurjoun Olafsson (1908–1982) are well known. Rikardur Jonsson (1888–1972) became famous for his wood carved sculptures and portraits.

Architecture is a relatively new art form in Iceland. Over the last decades of the 20th century. Many modern structures were created, mainly from reinforced concrete. A significant part of the monumental buildings and churches in the capital and other areas was designed by the architect Guljoun Samuelsson (1887–1950).

Music. Folk music in Iceland has a long tradition, with tvísöngur song melodies dating back to 1000. Subsequently, folk art mainly manifested itself in church choral music. In the 19th century the leading composer was Sveinbjörn Sveinbjörnsson (1847–1927), author of the national anthem. Sigfus Einarsson (1877–1939) was one of the prominent figures in Icelandic musical culture at the beginning of the 20th century. Among later composers, Paul Isolfsson (1897–1974) and especially Jon Leifs (1899–1968) are very famous, who tried to create a special Icelandic national music based on ancient folk melodies. The Reykjavik Orchestra was organized in 1925. Operas appear in the National Theater's repertoire from time to time, and a number of Icelandic opera singers enjoy great success abroad. Icelandic Opera was created in 1980.

Theater. The very first theatrical performances in Iceland were performed by students of the Latin School in Reykjavik in the 18th century. In the 19th century interest in theater was stimulated by Ingridi Einarsson (1851–1939), who wrote a number of plays. The Reykjavik Theater Society, founded in 1897, has been the center of dramatic art in Iceland for many years. At the beginning of the 20th century. plays for the Icelandic theater were composed by two talented playwrights - Johan Sigurjonsson and Gudmundur Kamban (1888–1945), the latter's works were translated and staged on theater stages in other Scandinavian countries. Icelandic theater entered a new era of development in 1950 when it opened National Theater in Reykjavik. New performances are staged on the stages of the National and City Theaters every year. There are small theaters in Akureyri and some other cities.

Mass media. There are many publishing houses in Iceland, producing approx. 400 books and magazines. The first magazines appeared at the end of the 18th century, and the first newspaper in 1848. 35 newspapers are published in the country, most of them are published once or twice a week. Of the five daily newspapers, Morgunbladid, the organ of the Independence Party, has the largest circulation.

Iceland has only one radio station, in Reykjavik, and three relay stations. There are radios in every home. Television broadcasting began in 1966. In addition to state television, programs are broadcast by a television station at the American military base in Keflavik.

Sport. The traditional sport is national wrestling glíma. Each of the two belted wrestlers holds on to the opponent's belt and seeks to lift and knock down the other, while it is allowed to use intricate trips and other techniques. Swimming has always been a popular sport; a network of swimming pools has been created in the country, where water is supplied from thermal springs. Horse riding competitions are often held. Football is very popular; competitions are regularly held from spring to autumn. Handball and basketball are very popular, and orienteering and tourism have recently developed. In winter, almost the entire population of the country engages in skiing and skating.

Bridge and chess deserve special mention. Icelandic players excel in these games in international competitions.

Of course, the main heroes of EURO 2016 were the players of the Icelandic national team, who managed to snatch victory from the English national team, and, perhaps, this is the only team at the Championship that is warmly regarded by fans from all over the world. Today we are publishing a selection of 30 interesting facts about what kind of country Iceland is and what kind of people live there.

1. Iceland is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world, with a population of just over 320 thousand people, and before the Second World War the population of the island was only 50 thousand people. About 30 thousand fans came to the European Football Championship, that is, approximately 10 percent of the country's population.

2. If you noticed, all the names of the Icelandic National Team players are similar, they end in “son”. The whole point here is that in Iceland patronymics are used instead of surnames; in fact, this is an analogue of our patronymic name. For boys, the particle “son” (son) is added to the father’s name; for girls, “dottir” (daughter). Thus, for example, if there are two children of different sexes in a family, then they will have different “surnames”, for example, the girl Palmarsdottir, that is, the daughter of Palmars and the son Palmarsson, that is, the son of Palmars. In 1925, Iceland even passed a special law prohibiting citizens of the country from acquiring surnames in classical understanding. By the way, if the father for some reason does not recognize the child, then the son or daughter receives a matronym as a surname, that is, the same patronymic, but after the mother’s name.

In the photo: Icelandic wedding

3. However, this does not mean that Icelanders do not strive to preserve the surname at all, they simply do it in a unique way, some give their children the same names after a generation, that is, they name the child after their grandfather or grandmother, so that, so to speak, they can trace the line kind.

4. The classic names of Icelanders are well known to many of us, because we met them in the ancient Scandinavian sagas. Yes, Ragnar, Sigur or Aðalsteinn, which means "main stone", are the same normal human names in Iceland as Ivan, Dmitry or Alexander in Russia. The most popular names in Iceland are: male - Jon and female - Gudrun.

5. In Iceland, in everyday life, especially long and complex names are abbreviated, for example, a young man named Aðalsteinn can be called simply Ali, Guvrun - Gunna, Stefan - Steppie, Jon - Nonny, and so on.

6. Until recently, it was generally accepted that Icelanders are descendants of Vikings from Norway and Sweden, but recent genetic examination has established that the genes of the Irish, who existed as slaves in Iceland in ancient times, prevail in the gene pool of modern Icelanders. On the other hand, this fits perfectly with the local belief that the Icelandic Vikings stole all the beautiful women from England and Ireland for the purpose of love affairs, and for reproduction.

In the photo: panorama of Reykjavik

7. The Icelandic language, due to the long-term isolation of the island from the rest of the world, has evolved very little compared to other Scandinavian languages, that is, the percentage of words borrowed from other languages ​​is extremely small. Because of this, Icelandic is very close to the very language of the northern peoples, in which the Vikings communicated in ancient times, and Icelanders can read the ancient sagas, as they say, without straining.

8. Icelandic household sagas, unlike other works of folk art, are a dry listing of facts, which is why it is sometimes quite difficult for a modern reader to perceive them. That is, in the sagas there is no description of the heroes’ feelings or experiences, only a meticulous listing of events: went there, conquered such and such, married so and so, killed so and so, was killed by so and so. In this case, much attention is paid to where exactly this or that event occurred and in what period of time it happened. Previously, largely due to the meticulous manner of presentation and the lack of an emotional component in the descriptions, many researchers considered Icelandic household sagas to be historical documents that did not require careful verification and historical reconstruction, but now the sagas are still perceived by scientists, rather, as works of art, and the facts stated in them are subject to verification.

Pictured: Hallgrimskirkja Church in Reykjavik

9. Another reflection of this feature of national thinking is the names geographical objects. In fact, complex and multi-stage words are simply a definition of the place in question. Thus, Reykjavik means “smoking bay”, the name of the city Kopavogur stands for “young seal bay”, and the difficult-to-pronounce name famous volcano Eyjafjallajökull as “Island of Mountain Glaciers”.

10. At the same time, 90 percent of the country's population speaks English fluently. The following fact is no less interesting: in order to find a job in Iceland, a foreigner does not need knowledge of the Icelandic language - fluent English is more than enough. For this reason, many immigrants to Iceland do not speak Icelandic even after 10 years of living in the country; They have more than enough English for both life and work. Another interesting thing is that if a citizen of another country has lived in Iceland for 6 years, he can apply for Icelandic citizenship and receive it without any problems.

In the photo: the priest of the Ásatrúarfélagið church and his follower

11. Also because very few people live in Iceland, there is practically no crime here. As a result, young mothers, for example, easily leave their babies sleeping in strollers on the streets of Reykjavik, while they go with their girlfriends to drink coffee in a cafe, car keys are often thrown in cars, and the Reykjavik prison is empty, and sometimes tourists even spend the night there, not managed to find a room in a hotel. In addition, police officers in Iceland do not carry weapons, and Iceland does not have a military force; their functions are to some extent performed by the coast guard.

12. Today in Iceland, the neo-pagan religion Ásatrúarfélagið, which is a slightly modernized cult of the Scandinavian gods, is very popular. Priests of the Ásatrúarfélagið are allowed, for example, to perform a wedding ceremony; it is considered an official procedure in the country, while ministers of the cult can also marry homosexual couples.
Today, 2,400 people officially count themselves among the followers of the Ásatrúarfélagið cult, and even now a large-scale construction of a full-fledged temple of the Scandinavian gods is underway in Iceland, this will be the first such structure since the times of the Vikings.

In the photo: stones in which, according to legend, spirits live

13. The traditional date for the adoption of Christianity in Iceland is the year 1000, which is curious, after that Icelandic Christianity developed without the close supervision of Rome, as a result, the Icelanders retained their ancient beliefs and traditions. For example, people here still believe in trolls (giants) or Hidden Residents (elves). Elves are huldufouls, these are creatures that live in round stones of a certain type; mere mortals cannot see them, except in those cases when the spirits themselves decide to show themselves to people.
The presence of such a stone, for example, at the construction site of a road or house, can cause problems, because huldufoulks should not be disturbed unless absolutely necessary. Therefore, before moving the stone, it is recommended to perform magical manipulations on it.

In the photo: evil spirits Yule Lad

14. Christmas in Icelandic will be Yule, that is, it is a direct copy of the word “Yule” - the ancient holiday of the winter solstice among the Germanic peoples, so it is not surprising that Santa Claus is an unpopular character here. Here Yule Lad work for him at Christmas, but they don’t give gifts to children; on the contrary, the heroes of folklore are the evil spirits of winter. There are fifteen spirits, and they come from the very Hidden inhabitants of the huldufoulks. The spirits come to the cities strictly on schedule; the first to descend from the mountains on December 12 are Gryla and Leppaludi - the mother and father of thirteen Yule Lad. In this case, dad is a lazy and overweight male spirit, and his wife is an evil old woman, an analogue of the Russian Baba Yaga, by the way, she also has a stick. Following the parents, one after another, their children come to the cities - the evil spirits of Yule.
Each of the spirits, according to beliefs, engages in sabotage according to their strength and capabilities: one steals dishes, another blows out candles in houses, a third steals sausages, a fourth licks milk supplies, a fifth tangles the wool of sheep, in a word, everyone is at work. The spirits are accompanied by the evil cat Yolokotturin; according to legend, she steals small children and eats them. Yule Lad figurines in Reykjavik can be seen on every corner on the eve of Christmas, their images are also pasted on Icelandair planes, and projections of them are broadcast onto store windows and house facades.

15. It is believed that the national dish of Iceland is hakarl - rotten Greenland shark meat cut into small pieces. The Greenland shark does not have a urinary tract, its meat contains poisonous ammonia, therefore, in order for the meat to become edible, it is left to rot underground or in a basement for three months. Haukarl tastes (and smells) like pure urea, which is how it usually stinks in some dirty public toilet. So, in fact, modern Icelanders almost never eat hakarl - this is entertainment for tourists, many of the locals have never tried this disgusting thing, as they say, one smell was enough to fully understand the scale of the disaster.

16. But fried bird breast is a dead end, on the contrary, a popular local dish, a kind of delicacy. Puffins are caught in the summer, when they fly to the island to nest, puffin meat is very tasty, but I really feel sorry for the bird, look how cute they are, they even know how to kiss! In a word, he ate and cried, ate and cried.
It is also shocking to many that in Iceland they eat whales; by the way, they taste like steak. But, according to Icelandic fishermen, if the whale population is not thinned out, they multiply very quickly and then eat all the commercial fish. Iceland regularly violates whale slaughter quotas, and animal rights activists and the whole of Europe are regularly unhappy with this.

In the photo: the national Icelandic dish Plokkfiskur

17. In general, if we talk about Icelandic cuisine, cod, haddock, smoked salmon, lamb in a variety of forms are popular here, especially lamb fillet, small lobsters (they are a little larger in size than large shrimp) and, of course, herring . Of course, potatoes are popular among vegetables; by the way, the delicious local dish Plokkfiskur is prepared from leftover haddock and potatoes.
In addition, Icelanders love to generously sprinkle their food with ketchup and mayonnaise; the most popular local drink is Coca-Cola. Among the sweets, sweets and licorice lollipops are held in high esteem here, and in the summer locals indulge in berries, which are good in Iceland. But there are no McDonald's restaurants in the country; the last one closed in 2008 during the crisis.

18. They also eat horse meat in Iceland, and this is also a little sad, because local horses are a real miracle of nature. They are short, hardy, and covered with thick fur in winter. At the same time, Icelandic horses are not afraid, there are no dangerous predators on the island, so the horses are not used to fearing for their lives, they easily approach strangers, allow themselves to be stroked and fed.

There is still debate about how horses originally got to the island. In ancient times, Icelanders assumed that all local horses were descendants of Sleipnir, the eight-legged horse of the god Odin. Historians believe that horses were brought to Iceland by the Vikings in the 9th - 10th centuries AD, and geneticists claim that horses were brought to the island from the shores of Scotland. Hippotherapy is also popular in Iceland - the treatment of neurological disorders through communication with horses.

19. Iceland is located on thermal springs, so it mainly uses renewable energy sources. As a result, thermal water flows from the tap, which, however, smells very strongly of hydrogen sulfide, but you gradually sniff it, houses are also heated generously, and since pipes with hot thermal water in Reykjavik are laid directly under the sidewalk, the streets of the Icelandic capital can never ice up, so there is no point in sprinkling them with chemicals.

In the photo: an Icelandic jeep for winter off-road travel

20. But don’t think that everything is so wonderful. Outside the cities, many roads in Iceland become impassable in winter: there is icing, drifting snow, and snow piles. Therefore, the most popular type of vehicle used if you need to travel from Reykjavik to Akureyri in winter is a jeep, and the bigger the better. On a tour of national parks or they even take tourists to the geysers on such monsters as in the photo below.

21. But what is truly wonderful in Iceland are the thermal pools with hot water, built in the open air. Of course, everyone has heard about the famous Blue Lagoon, built near a thermal power plant, but this is more entertainment for tourists. Icelanders themselves most often go to ordinary thermal pools, which are open in the amount of approximately one per 10 houses. Everything is simple there: you go in, wash, and climb into the outdoor thermal pool. When purchasing a subscription, the cost of visiting is around 2 euros.

Interestingly, when visiting a thermal pool, guests must wash their hair, and since most pools are located outdoors, the very fact that locals swim with wet hair and do not get sick is admirable. In general, visiting the thermal baths in Iceland is the same option for evening leisure as going to a bar; this is where young people most often invite girls on a first date. It turns out to be very convenient, and cheaper than going to a bar, and you can immediately see the person in all the details.

22. In fact, in Iceland in winter it is not as cold as we used to think, the temperature here rarely drops below minus 6 degrees, but the piercing and sometimes knocking wind fully compensates for this. But in summer it’s never hot in Iceland, the air temperature here rarely rises above 20 degrees, and there’s still the same wind, don’t forget about the wind.

23. If until recently the most popular resort for the Russians there was Turkey, then the same function for the Icelanders is still performed Canary Islands. The reasons for Icelanders’ love for the Canary Islands are prosaic: the nature is similar, the flight is relatively close, by Icelandic standards it’s very affordable, but most importantly, it’s warm, and the fact that the water in the ocean is cool doesn’t bother them at all.

In the photo: Northern Lights over Reykjavik

24. In winter in Iceland it is not just dark, but very dark; on December 21 - the shortest day of the year - dawn comes at 10.30, and the sun sets at 16.00. But in winter you can regularly observe the Northern Lights here; in Iceland they are usually green, and there is even a website that shows the likelihood of the Northern Lights appearing in a particular area of ​​the country, its address: http://www.vedur.is .
In summer, long nights are replaced by long days, compared to which white nights in St. Petersburg are simply nothing; in June in Iceland the sun sets for only a couple of hours.

In the photo: the Icelandic Parliament building

25. At the heart government structure Iceland has democracy, and these are not empty words. Here it is worth turning to the history of the country: as the island was settled, tings were formed in the regions of Iceland - an analogue of the ancient Russian veche. At the Things, courts were held, disputes were resolved, and collective discussions of vital issues concerning the community took place. Once a year, at the beginning of summer, representatives from each community gathered for a general meeting - the Althing - in order to regulate relations between the regions. As a rule, successes during the Althing were achieved by those who had the powerful support of wealthy landowners. The first Althing took place in Iceland in 930, and this year is considered to be the beginning of the era of democracy. True, in the thirteenth century Iceland came under the rule of Norway, until the forties of the twentieth century it was under the rule of Denmark, in 1940 the island was captured by Great Britain, which, in turn, transferred Iceland to the United States. The country gained independence from the United States only on June 17, 1944. So, the victory over the England team for the Icelanders is a kind of revenge for the years of occupation.
However, the Icelandic Althing was reassembled in 1845, and today it is considered the oldest parliament in the world. The entire population of the country took part in finalizing the last text of the Constitution of Iceland in 2012; citizens’ proposals were accepted through social networks and even through YouTube. But, the most curious thing is that for all this, the country has had the same president for the last 16 years - Olavur Ragnar Grimsson. He ruled the country from 1999 to 2016. Grimsson remained for the second term due to the lack of candidates for the post of head of state, for the third time he won the vote, for the fourth term he went again due to the lack of candidates for the post of president, and for the fifth time he won the elections again. On June 26, 2016, 48-year-old history teacher Gudni Johannesson became the new president of Iceland.

Pictured: Hafþór Bjödnson as Grigor "The Mountain" Kligon

26. In Iceland there is socialism, here everyone receives approximately the same salary and lives in the same houses. At the same time, it is believed here that “all professions are needed, all professions are important,” that is, it doesn’t matter whether you work as a waiter or a scientist - you are equally worthy of respect. It is curious that many local celebrities, before fame fell on them, worked in not very honorable positions, for example, Hafþór Bjödnson - the strongest man on the planet and the performer of the role of Grigor "The Mountain" Kligon in "Games of Thrones", like many Icelanders , for a long time not only was engaged in bodybuilding, but also worked part-time in a restaurant.

In general, almost all Icelanders have not one job, but two, the first for money, the second for the soul. That is, almost every waiter or bartender here is also an artist, decorator, photographer, designer or jeweler.

27. And the local population loves to read; today, according to some sources, Icelanders are the most reading people in the world.

In the photo: a girl in a lop-piece

28. In Iceland there is absolute tolerance for everything, gay marriage has been allowed here since 2010, the percentage of open bisexuals in the country is also very high, and a gay pride parade takes place in Reykjavik every summer. At the same time, all couples, regardless of whether they are hetero or homo, try to maintain friendly relations when breaking up, because the country is small and it will still not be possible to completely stop communication. Icelanders get married easily and divorce easily; in case of divorce, children, as a rule, live 50/50 with each parent. At the same time, almost all Icelandic girls are feminists; they do not allow themselves to be paid for in restaurants; they carry bags, do repairs, nail nails, and so on without any difficulties. True, the advantages of tolerance also give rise to disadvantages; in Iceland, personal space is extremely difficult, because everyone knows everything about everyone.

29. Iceland exists practically according to the rules of the Australian economy, which is based on self-reliance and the construction of a system of closed reproduction of the community with minimal dependence on exchange with the external environment. No, of course, you can buy Western food here, but they cost several times more than local ones, and the choice is small. In general, it’s funny with wine, it’s expensive regardless of the type, that is, a bottle of decent wine and outright mumbo jumbo will cost about the same. Clothing is also mostly locally produced. And the main national item that any Icelander has in their wardrobe is the lopapeysa - a knitted sheep's wool jacket with a recognizable national pattern. By the way, the lopapeysa is quite expensive, but the thing lasts for years.

30. Iceland, according to statistics, is one of the most active countries in
in social networks. Almost all its residents have accounts on Facebook, however, in addition to Facebook, the country also has a local social network www.ja.is, where all Icelanders, young and old, are registered. When registering on this site, users indicate not only their first and last name, but also their phone number, address and the location on the map where their homes are located. So if you want to meet one of the Icelandic National Football Team players and he is still living in the country, look for him on www.ja.is, he will definitely be there.