Faroe Islands Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Faroe Islands, archipelago in the North Atlantic, between Scotland and Iceland; 1,400 km², 49,755 residents (2016).The archipelago forms part of Denmark but has internal autonomy. The Faroe Islands, which extend about 113 km in the north-south direction and 75 km in the west-east direction, consist of 17 inhabited islands and a number of more or less inaccessible small islands. The largest islands are Streymoy (Danish Strømø) 373 km², Eysturoy (Danish Østerø) 286 km², Vágar (Danish Vågø) 178 km², Suðuroy (Danish Suderø) 166 km² and Sandoy (Danish Sandø) 112 km². The capital is Tórshavn (Danish Thorshavn), located on Streymoy, 12,200 residents (2013). Administratively, the Faroe Islands are divided into six counties (counties).

Faroe Islands Flag

Country facts

Føroyar
Country abbreviation: FO
Area: 1 400 km²
Population (2016): 49,755 residents
Capital: Torshavn
Main languages: Faroese, Danish
State condition: autonomous part of the Kingdom of Denmark
Head of State: Margrethe II (Queen)
Head of Government: Aksel V. Johannesen
Per capita GDP (2014): US $ 36,600
Currency unit: 1 Danish krona = 100 öre
Currency code: DKK
Internet domain name: fo
Time difference compared to Sweden: −1
National Day: July 29 (Olaifesten)

Nature

Highest Rock: Mowing Peak (882 m asl)

Population

Population density (2016): 36 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2016): 0.5%; birth rate 14 ‰, death rate 9 ‰
Age structure (2016): 0-14 years (20%), 15-64 (64%), 65- (16%)
Average life expectancy (2016): 80 years; men 78 years, women 83 years
Infant mortality (2016): 6 per 1,000 live births
Urbanization rate (2016): 42%
Most populous city (2013): Tórshavn (12,200 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2012): agriculture (16%), industry (29%), service (55%)
Main export product: fish
Main export partners: Denmark, UK, USA
Main import products: machinery, transport, food
Main import partners: Denmark, Norway, Iceland

Communications

Railway network: nothing in operation
Road network (2015): 960 km
Internet users per 100 residents (2015): 94

Geography

Location and Borders

The Faroe Islands, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, are located in the North Atlantic Ocean, roughly halfway between Iceland and Norway. Situated about 200 miles north of Scotland, the islands are composed of 18 volcanic islands, forming a rugged archipelago. The Faroe Islands do not share land borders with any other country, but they are strategically positioned between major sea routes, making them historically significant for maritime activities.

Physical Features

The landscape of the Faroe Islands is characterized by steep cliffs, deep fjords, and a highly rugged terrain, with dramatic mountain peaks rising abruptly from the ocean. The islands were formed through volcanic activity millions of years ago, and their geology reflects a mixture of basalt rock and layers of sedimentary rock. The terrain is often uneven, with high mountain ranges, narrow valleys, and deep, glacially-carved fjords that cut through the islands. The highest peak, Mount Slaettaratindur, rises to 882 meters (2,894 feet), offering expansive views of the surrounding archipelago.

The islands’ coastline is jagged and exposed, creating some of the most scenic coastal landscapes in the world. Because of the irregular coastline, there are numerous sheltered bays and inlets, which are important for the islands’ maritime industries. Despite their relatively small size, the islands contain significant natural diversity, with rugged cliffs, high plateaus, and rolling hills.

Climate

The climate of the Faroe Islands is classified as subpolar oceanic, meaning it is characterized by mild, wet winters and cool, wet summers. The archipelago is under the influence of the North Atlantic Drift, a warm oceanic current that moderates the temperature, preventing it from becoming too cold in the winter or too hot in the summer. The average temperature in winter is around 4°C (39°F), while in summer, it hovers around 10°C (50°F).

Rain is frequent throughout the year, contributing to the islands’ lush green appearance and fostering a habitat for diverse plant and animal species. Snowfall is common during the winter months, particularly in the higher altitudes. Strong winds are also typical, particularly during storms, making the weather unpredictable and often severe. The Faroe Islands are exposed to frequent changes in weather patterns, with fog, rain, and wind playing a prominent role in shaping the daily environment.

Natural Resources

The islands’ remote location and harsh climate have limited large-scale agricultural activities. However, the region is rich in marine life, and fishing has been the cornerstone of the Faroe Islands’ economy for centuries. The surrounding waters are home to an abundance of fish, such as cod, haddock, and mackerel, as well as shellfish. The natural environment, which includes both marine and land-based ecosystems, supports a variety of bird species, including puffins and eagles, which are a major draw for wildlife enthusiasts.

People

Population and Ethnic Composition

The population of the Faroe Islands is just over 50,000 people, making it one of the least populous territories in Europe. The majority of the population is of Faroese descent, with strong Scandinavian roots. The Faroese people are part of the broader Nordic ethnic group, and their heritage is deeply connected to the islands’ long history as a Norwegian and later Danish dependency.

The people of the Faroe Islands speak Faroese, a North Germanic language that is most closely related to Icelandic, with which it shares a common ancestral language. Faroese is the official language, though Danish is also widely spoken, especially in governmental and educational contexts, as part of the islands’ relationship with Denmark. English is increasingly common among younger generations, particularly in business and tourism.

Despite the small population, the Faroese are known for their strong sense of identity and community. The relatively small size of the population has fostered tight-knit communities where family and social connections are highly valued.

Religion

Christianity is the predominant religion in the Faroe Islands, with nearly 80% of the population identifying as members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Faroe Islands. This church is an independent Protestant denomination that functions as the state church, and its teachings and rituals play an important role in the cultural and social fabric of the islands. Church attendance, however, has declined in recent decades, reflecting broader trends seen in many parts of Europe.

In addition to Lutheranism, there is a small number of people practicing other religions, including Roman Catholicism and a variety of Protestant denominations. The Faroe Islands also have a small Muslim community, primarily composed of immigrants and their descendants.

Lifestyle and Social Organization

Life in the Faroe Islands is deeply influenced by the environment. Many people still live in rural settings, where traditional fishing and farming are prevalent, though urbanization has led to a growing population in the capital city of Tórshavn. People in the islands lead a relatively quiet and modest lifestyle, with the weather often dictating daily activities. The harsh climate and isolation of the islands have shaped a resilient and resourceful population.

Despite its small size, the Faroe Islands have a well-developed healthcare system, an efficient education system, and a range of social services. The Faroese people enjoy a high standard of living, with access to good public services, including healthcare and education, and a high life expectancy.

Economy

Fisheries and Agriculture

The economy of the Faroe Islands is heavily reliant on the fishing industry, which accounts for a substantial portion of the nation’s income. The waters surrounding the islands are some of the most productive for fish, and the Faroese fishing fleet is one of the largest in the North Atlantic. The primary exports are fish and seafood products, including frozen and processed fish, which are sold to markets across Europe and beyond.

Despite the reliance on fishing, the agricultural sector plays a role, particularly in the production of sheep farming and dairy products. The harsh terrain and climate limit farming, but some grains, vegetables, and potatoes are cultivated in sheltered areas. Wool and sheepskin products are also significant in the islands’ handicraft economy, and the pastoral landscape contributes to the rural, traditional lifestyle of the Faroese people.

Services and Trade

While the fishing industry remains the backbone of the Faroese economy, the service sector is growing. Tourism, in particular, has become an increasingly important part of the economy, with visitors attracted to the islands’ dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and unique cultural experiences. The government has invested in infrastructure to support tourism, including expanding transport links with Denmark, Iceland, and Norway, as well as improving services for visitors.

The islands’ location makes them an important hub for maritime trade and transportation. Shipping and port activities contribute significantly to the economy, with the Faroe Islands’ strategic location in the North Atlantic acting as a natural shipping gateway. Financial services and other administrative roles, particularly those related to the islands’ autonomous status within the Kingdom of Denmark, also contribute to the economic landscape.

Challenges

The Faroe Islands face several challenges due to their isolation and small population. The fishing industry, while lucrative, is susceptible to overfishing and environmental changes, such as rising sea temperatures, which can affect the availability of fish stocks. The islands also have a limited domestic market, which means they must rely on exports for economic growth, making them vulnerable to changes in international trade dynamics.

Additionally, while tourism is growing, the infrastructure needed to support a high volume of visitors is still developing. Moreover, the harsh climate and geographical isolation make the cost of living relatively high, and maintaining infrastructure can be difficult.

Government

Political System

The Faroe Islands are an autonomous territory of Denmark, with their own government, the Løgting, which is a unicameral parliament. The Løgting is responsible for domestic matters, such as education, health, and local infrastructure. However, defense, foreign policy, and other areas remain under Danish control. This arrangement is a result of the Home Rule Act of 1948, which granted the Faroe Islands a high degree of self-rule within the Danish Kingdom.

The Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands, elected by the Løgting, leads the government, which works alongside the parliament to manage the territory’s affairs. The monarch of Denmark, currently Queen Margrethe II, serves as the head of state, represented locally by the Danish-appointed Governor. However, the daily governance of the Faroe Islands is largely carried out by the local Faroese government.

Independence Debate

Over the years, there has been debate in the Faroe Islands regarding full independence from Denmark. While the issue is not universally supported, there is a segment of the population that advocates for greater autonomy or full sovereignty. The economic success of the fishing industry and the growing sense of national identity have fueled this debate, though the issue remains contentious, with many Faroese valuing their ties to Denmark, particularly for defense and foreign affairs.

Political Parties

The Faroese political landscape is characterized by a range of political parties, most of which are organized around issues of independence, autonomy, and economic policy. The parties reflect a broad spectrum of ideologies, including conservative, liberal, and social democratic viewpoints. The ongoing debate over independence continues to be an important issue in Faroese politics, influencing election outcomes and government formation.

Culture

Language and Literature

The Faroese language, part of the North Germanic language group, is an important aspect of Faroese culture and identity. The language has remained strong despite external pressures, and it is taught in schools and used in all public life, including in government and media. Faroese literature has a long history, with roots in Norse sagas and later developments in modern literature.

Contemporary Faroese writers, poets, and artists often reflect on the islands’ rich history and nature, with themes ranging from the harsh environment to the complexities of modern life in a remote community. Literary works are written primarily in Faroese, and the government has supported the preservation and promotion of the language through educational policies and funding for the arts.

Music and Art

Traditional Faroese music is deeply rooted in the island’s cultural heritage, with a focus on songs passed down through generations, often featuring a cappella choral arrangements. Folk music has remained influential, though modern genres such as pop, rock, and electronic music are also popular. The Faroe Islands are home to a growing number of musicians and composers, with Faroese artists gaining recognition on the international stage.

Visual arts in the Faroe Islands are also thriving, with numerous artists inspired by the natural beauty of the islands. Paintings, sculptures, and photography often feature landscapes, wildlife, and abstract depictions of the Faroese way of life. The Faroese culture has a strong tradition of handicrafts, particularly knitwear, with woolen garments being an essential part of the national wardrobe.

Festivals and Traditions

The Faroe Islands have a rich tradition of festivals and celebrations. One of the most significant is the Ólavsøka, a festival held in July in the capital, Tórshavn, which marks the national day of the Faroe Islands. This celebration includes parades, cultural performances, and traditional Faroese dancing. The festival is a symbol of the islands’ heritage and pride in their cultural identity.

Other celebrations include Christmas, which is marked by unique customs and local traditions, and Vøttur, a spring festival celebrating the start of the sheep-shearing season. These events, while small in scale, help maintain strong community ties and foster a sense of shared history and culture.

Cuisine

Faroese cuisine is influenced by the harsh climate and maritime environment of the islands. Traditional dishes include seafood, particularly fish, as well as lamb and various dairy products. Dishes such as skerpikjøt (dried mutton) and ræst (fermented fish) are part of the Faroese culinary tradition. Meals are often simple, using locally sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on preservation techniques like drying, fermenting, and smoking to cope with the long winters.

Modern Faroese cuisine is evolving, with younger generations experimenting with local ingredients in contemporary ways. Restaurants in the capital have earned international recognition for their innovative takes on traditional dishes.

History

Early History

The history of the Faroe Islands dates back to the Viking Age, when Norse settlers arrived on the islands in the 9th century. The islands were originally part of the Kingdom of Norway and played a crucial role in Viking exploration. The Faroe Islands were governed by Norway for centuries, and the Norse language and culture deeply influenced the region.

Danish Rule

In the 19th century, the Faroe Islands came under Danish control after the Treaty of Kiel in 1814, which ceded Norway to Sweden and left the Faroe Islands as part of Denmark. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Faroese pushed for greater autonomy, eventually leading to the establishment of the Home Rule Act in 1948, which granted the islands substantial self-rule.

Modern Era

In the 20th century, the Faroe Islands continued to develop their identity and autonomy, particularly following World War II, when the islands gained more control over their internal affairs. The islands’ growing economy, centered around the fishing industry, played a key role in shaping their development into a modern society. Although the debate over full independence remains an ongoing political issue, the Faroe Islands have flourished as a self-governing entity within the Kingdom of Denmark, navigating the balance between autonomy and sovereignty.