What is the Capital of Iceland? Reykjavik
Reykjavík, the capital city of Iceland, is the northernmost capital of a sovereign state in the world. It is the largest city in Iceland, as well as the cultural, political, and economic hub of the country. Located on the southwestern coast of the island, along the shores of the Faxaflói Bay, Reykjavík is known for its unique combination of natural beauty, modern infrastructure, and historical significance.
Reykjavík has a relatively small population, around 130,000 in the city proper, but it serves as the center for more than 200,000 people when considering the greater metropolitan area. Despite its size, Reykjavík has a vibrant cultural scene, ranging from arts, music, and literature to theater and film. The city is also famous for its modernist architecture, geothermal energy use, and a high standard of living.
Reykjavík’s location provides residents with a spectacular backdrop of volcanic landscapes, mountains, and hot springs. The city is close to numerous natural wonders, such as the Blue Lagoon and Thingvellir National Park, and is often used as a base for exploring the Golden Circle and other popular tourist destinations in Iceland.
Historical Significance
Reykjavík is rich in history. It was settled in 874 AD by Ingólfur Arnarson, a Norseman, and was officially recognized as a town in 1786. It became the capital of Iceland when the country became a sovereign nation in 1944 after gaining independence from Denmark. Iceland has since become known for its progressive social policies, environmental consciousness, and vibrant cultural scene. Today, Reykjavík is a beacon of Icelandic culture and heritage, while also being a modern, forward-thinking city that blends past and present.
City Facts
- Area: 273.0 km²
- Population: Approximately 130,000 (as of 2023)
- Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or Iceland Standard Time (IST) (UTC+0)
- Highest Mountain: Hvannadalshnúkur (2,110 meters), located in the Öræfajökull glacier
- Longest River: Þjórsá River, which flows through southern Iceland and is about 230 km long, though it does not run through Reykjavík itself.
Major Landmarks in Reykjavík
Reykjavík is home to a variety of landmarks that reflect Iceland’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and modern innovations. Here are some of the most prominent sites:
1. Hallgrímskirkja
Hallgrímskirkja is arguably Reykjavík’s most iconic landmark. Standing at 74.5 meters, it is the largest church in Iceland and one of the tallest structures in the country. The church was designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson and its striking design is inspired by Iceland’s volcanic formations and basalt columns. The church’s bell tower offers a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscapes, and visitors can see the statue of Leif Erikson, the famous Viking explorer, in front of the church.
2. The Harpa Concert Hall
Opened in 2011, Harpa is a stunning modern architectural marvel that serves as both a concert hall and a cultural center. The building’s glass façade is designed to resemble the shapes of Iceland’s landscapes, and its structure is inspired by the geometric formations found in nature. Harpa hosts numerous performances, from classical music concerts to contemporary performances, and it has become one of the city’s main cultural attractions.
3. The Sun Voyager (Sólfar)
The Sun Voyager is an outdoor sculpture located on the shores of Faxaflói Bay. Created by artist Jón Gunnar Árnason, this striking work of art resembles a Viking ship and is a tribute to Iceland’s seafaring heritage. The sculpture is especially stunning at sunset when the sunlight casts a warm glow on its stainless steel structure, making it a favorite for photographers and tourists alike.
4. The National Museum of Iceland
The National Museum is located in the heart of Reykjavík and offers visitors a chance to learn about Iceland’s history and culture, from the Viking Age to modern times. The museum’s collection includes over 2,000 artifacts, including the famous The Árbær Farm, which represents a traditional Icelandic farm from the 19th century. The exhibits cover everything from Icelandic sagas to the country’s independence in the 20th century.
5. Perlan (The Pearl)
Perlan is a landmark building that offers panoramic views of Reykjavík and its surrounding areas. It houses a variety of exhibitions, including The Wonders of Iceland, which showcases the country’s unique geology and environment, including glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal activity. Inside Perlan is also a glacier exhibition and an indoor ice cave. Perlan is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
Climate Overview
Reykjavík has a subarctic climate, characterized by relatively cool temperatures year-round, with mild winters and cool summers. The city experiences daylight hours that vary dramatically between seasons. In the winter, there are only about 4–5 hours of daylight per day, while in the summer, the sun barely sets for weeks, a phenomenon known as the midnight sun.
The city’s location on the North Atlantic coast means it is heavily influenced by maritime conditions, which provide relatively moderate temperatures compared to other places at similar latitudes. Despite this, the city can still experience sharp temperature swings and heavy rain or snow.
Monthly Climate Overview
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -1°C to 4°C | 30 | 7 |
| February | -1°C to 4°C | 25 | 8 |
| March | 0°C to 5°C | 35 | 9 |
| April | 2°C to 7°C | 40 | 10 |
| May | 6°C to 11°C | 40 | 12 |
| June | 9°C to 14°C | 45 | 15 |
| July | 11°C to 15°C | 50 | 16 |
| August | 10°C to 14°C | 60 | 15 |
| September | 7°C to 11°C | 60 | 11 |
| October | 3°C to 7°C | 45 | 8 |
| November | 0°C to 4°C | 40 | 6 |
| December | -1°C to 3°C | 35 | 5 |
Other Cities That Have Served as Capital in Iceland’s History
Thingvellir (930–1262)
Thingvellir (or Þingvellir) is an area in southern Iceland and served as the site for the Althing, the national parliament of Iceland, which was founded in 930 AD. Thingvellir is not only significant for its political role in Icelandic history but also for its geological importance, as it sits on the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It was Iceland’s political heart for over 300 years, until the capital moved to Reykjavík in the 13th century.
Country Facts: Iceland
General Country Information
- Population: Approximately 376,000 (2023 estimate)
- Area: 103,000 km²
- Largest City: Reykjavík, with a population of around 130,000 (2023)
- Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK)
- Official Language: Icelandic
- ISO Country Codes: IS (ISO 3166-1 alpha-2), ISL (ISO 3166-1 alpha-3)
- Government: Parliamentary republic
- Prime Minister: Katrín Jakobsdóttir (as of 2023)
- Independence: Gained independence from Denmark on June 17, 1944
Iceland is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including geysers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and glaciers. It is one of the most environmentally conscious countries in the world, with a commitment to sustainable energy, largely powered by geothermal resources. Iceland is also famous for its high standard of living, clean air, and low crime rate, making it one of the safest countries globally.
