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 attained in 1944. Literacy, longevity, income, and social cohesion are first-rate by world standards.
Located just south of the Arctic Circle, Iceland 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% of the island's 103,000 square km (40,000 square 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. 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, mostly date from around 1900.
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Iceland Map Our interactive satellite map of Iceland, plus more Iceland maps. |
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Iceland Sacred Sites List A list of churches and other sacred sites in Iceland. |
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Reykjavik Iceland's capital and largest city is Reykjavik, on the west coast. Amongst its colorful houses and dramatic landscape are several churches of interest, both Lutheran and Catholic. |
