Iceland
Settled by Norwegian and Celtic immigrants during the late 9th and 10th centuries AD, Iceland boasts the world's oldest functioning legislative assembly, the Althing, established in 930. Independent for over 300 years, Iceland was subsequently ruled by Norway and Denmark. Limited home rule from Denmark was granted in 1874 and complete independence was attained in 1944. Literacy, longevity, income, and social cohesion are first-rate by world standards.
Located just south of the Arctic Circle, Iceland is one of the most dramatic natural spectacles on the planet. It is a land of dazzling white glaciers and black sands, blue hot springs, rugged lava fields, and green, green valleys. More than 80 percent of the island's 103,000 square km (40,000 sq mi) is uninhabited and there are very few trees to be seen anywhere.
The state religion of Iceland is Lutheranism and most churches (including the famous Hallgrimskirkja) are Lutheran. But there is also a significant Catholic community, with its own cathedral in Reykjavik. Iceland's city churches are renowned for their modernist style and most date from the late 20th century. The country churches, built in a picturesque Scandanavian style, were mostly built around 1900.
Iceland Guide
|
|
Featured Destinations in Iceland (List All Destinations) Kópavogur Completed in 1963, Kópavogskirkja is a modern church in Kópavogur, the second-largest town in Iceland (30,000).  Reykjavik This small and charming cathedral in Reykjavik has hosted many historic events and is still used for state purposes.  Reykjavik The tallest and most striking church in Iceland, the Lutheran cathedral of Reykjavik was completed in 1983. Its design is inspired by Iceland's glaciers. |
Iceland City Guides ReykjavikReykjavik (pop. 115,000) is the capital of Iceland, its largest city, and the world's northernmost national capital - its summer nights are almost as bright as the days. Reykjavik is home to a Lutheran cathedral, a Catholic cathedral, and several small Lutheran churches. |
