Important information about Iceland. Iceland

In the photo, the capital of Iceland

Capital: Reykjavik

Reykjavik - Capital and the largest city in the cold kingdom of Iceland. The name of the city is translated as the "smoking bay" - indeed, there is a large accumulation of hot springs, geysers and volcanoes. The city is near the Polar Circle, so such phenomena as a polar day and a polar night are characteristic of this area.

The lands of Iceland were settled at the end of the IX early X century by Celtic and Norwegian immigrants, which, in fact, became the first settlers. The first buildings arose here in 874.

The land area occupied by the capital Reykjavik is 274.5 km², and the population of the population for 2008 is 118,861 people.

The national currency of the state is the Icelandic Crown (ISK), which was introduced into appeal in 1885. The Icelandic Crown Course to the Russian ruble is 100 ISK \u003d 24 RUR.

Climate subtropical, winter soft, air temperature never falls below -10 degrees. On the temperature background in winter, the warm flow of Gulf Stream affects. Summer on the contrary is a cool, as a rule, with air temperature in + 10 + 12 degrees, so this country is considered to be a resort for those who have already visited in many countries of the world, and is looking for exclusively new impressions.

Höwdi - the main attraction of Reykjavik. This is an old mansion that was built in 1909 and was a residence of the French Consul. The most widely known mansion in the 1986 summit passed in it, in which Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev took part. To date, the building serves as a residence for political figures and stars who come to Reykjavik to rest or on political issues.

Hatlgrimskirkia - Lutheran Church and local attraction. The landmark of the Church is not because many tourists are not able to immediately say its name. The fact is that many of the name of houses, streets, quarters and even volcanoes are not an Icelander is not able to say instantly. The church attracts tourists with its architecture, the building took 38 years old.

Alttention is the most ancient building of the Parliament. For the first time, members of parliament met in 930. Since then, the building has continued to act. Initially, only men were in parliament, women did not give the right to vote.

Bsstadir - the residence of the president of the state, which is located near the capital. The main building was built in the period from 1761-1766, while the school was placed here for a long time, and then an agricultural farm. Only in 1944 the building was renovated and posted the residence of the presidents.

Reykjavik - a city located on southwest coast Iceland Islands, in the Bay of Fakhsaflowui of the Atlantic Ocean, on the Sertiadnarnes Peninsula, at an altitude of 150 m above sea level.

Many hot sources are dispersed in the vicinity of the city. This is a characteristic feature not only the city, but also the whole country as a whole. In geological terms Iceland is a young country formed as a result of volcanic eruptions, and the presence of hot sources on this territory is determined by the volcanic activity of the earth's crust.

Existing volcanoes, hot springs, along with the warm flow of the Irminger (the side branch of the Golfstrum), has a mitigating effect on the climate of the north-Atlantic coast. Therefore, winter here is quite soft, with thaws, and the average January temperature ranges from 0-4 ° C. Water in the winter does not freeze, leaving coastal waters free from ice. Summer, on the contrary, cool, and the temperature of July, on average + 12 ° C. Frequent weather changes are observed. The level of precipitation is about 800 mm per year.

The vegetation cover is quite poor, and it is mainly made up of mosses and herbs. Birch predominates among wood plants, for which curved trunks are characteristic due to strong winds. Environmental research institutes Reykjavik are concerned about the poverty of Flora, and last years Significant planting of coniferous species of trees, both in the vicinity of the capital and throughout the country.

Population, language, religion

Reykjavik - the largest city of Iceland. It lives more than 100 thousand people, which is over 40% of the total population of Iceland. The population of the country, and in particular Reykjavik, is quite uniform. Approximately 90% of residents speak their native language - Icelandic. Approximately the same percentage of the population belongs to the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Among the rest of the Seventh Day Adventists and Catholics are dominated.

Historical development

Irish was the first to opened Iceland, it happened earlier than 800 g. The emergence of Reykjavik tie with disembarking on the coast of this country of the Norwegian settlers approximately in 874-930. Among the first settlers, except for Norwegians were immigrants from Ireland, Scotland and England, which brought the Celtic element to the appearance of Icelanders (many residents of this country are high brunettes). They founded the farm, in the XVII-XVIII centuries. He was transformed into the village. Reykjavik received the status and rights of the city of Reykjavik. On August 18, 1786, this date is considered to be the foundation of Reykjavik.

Before the beginning of the XX century. The growth of the city's population took place pretty slow. In the XVIII-X1X centuries, during the global industrial and demographic lifting, the population of the capital of Iceland increased only by 6-7 thousand people. For the next two centuries, this figure exceeded 100 thousand people. Such a low population increase for a fairly long time period is associated with the fact that in the history of Iceland, the number of residents has been significantly reduced. The reason for this was epidemics, frequent volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.

Reykjavik's recognition The capital of Iceland took place pretty slowly. Only in the XX century. He was declared the chief city of the country. Until 1918, Iceland was the ownership of Denmark. For many years, the inhabitants of this country tried to achieve political freedoms and local governments. The first steps were made to this in 1874, when Iceland achieved limited autonomy. The new government of autonomous Iceland was located in Reykjavik. Later, in 1920, the Government of Iceland approved Reykjavik his capital.

During World War II, Reykjavik acquired strategically important for American and English courts, which carried patrol service in the waters of the North Atlantic. In December 1943, the Treaty of Denmark and Iceland, concluded in 1918, ended in 1918. In 1944, Iceland was declared an independent republic, and the city of Reykjavik was officially recognized as its capital.

Cultural meaning

The cultural life of Reykjavik is quite diverse in all directions. The architectural appearance of the city began to transform mainly from the second half of the XVIII century, since the city building had 2 and 3-storey layout before this period. By the beginning of the IX century. The architectural buildings of various directions were erected. The National Library (1908) and the National Theater were built in the spirit of national romanticism. Attractions such as Reykjavik Cathedral (1787-1796) and the altint (1880-1881) are designed in the style of Danish classicism. Cultural Center "Northern House" (1968) and residential single-family homes in the suburbs support the direction of functionalism.

Research activities develop quite violently. In Reykjavik, Iceland University, Institute of Meteorology, Institute of Pathology and Bacteriology, Volkology Institute. In addition, there is a number of Iceland's scientific societies involved in the problems of agriculture, archeology, history of the region and the world as a whole, Glyciology and the National Research Council. In addition, there are many libraries in Reykjavik, the largest of which is the National Library, the Public Library and the Icelandic University Library.

Considerable attention is paid to the history, culture, traditions of the inhabitants of the region. All of this, residents and guests of the city can find out by visiting the natural historical museum, National MuseumFounded in 1863, the Aur-Bayr Museum in the open air, the National Gallery, the Museum of Ausemundura Svei-Nsson. In these museums, the national legacy of the country, left by the outstanding artists of Iceland, was collected. The main directions of Icelandic folk art since the Middle Ages were wood carving, knitting, making silver products and decorative fabrics, stone sculptures for decorating churches.

The main attraction of the city is the art gallery of Einar Jounson. Einar Ioulsson (1874-1954) was the first Icelandic sculptor who received international recognition. His works are decorated with streets and Reykjavik Square. The museum presents originals and copies of its work, as well as the work of other outstanding Icelandic sculptors and painters.

In Reykjavik, which is the main cultural center of Iceland, are the National Theater, opened in 1950, dramatic troupe, Reykjavik Theater Society, founded in the IX century, where opera-ballet and dramatic performances are put annually. In Reykjavik one radio station, three relay stations. The television has been working since 1966.

Information for tourists

The influx of tourists to the Icelandic capital is small. Mostly foreign travelers attracts the famous Valley of Geysers - a place where hot springs are beaten from under the ground, called geothermal. In the city stores you can buy knitted products from wonderful Icelandic wool, famous for its quality all over the world.

The monetary unit having a walk in Reykjavik is the Icelandic Crown. Currency exchange can be made at the airport and hotels of the city.

The official name is the Republic of Iceland (Ly.Veidi. Island). The island state is located in the northwestern part of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is 103 thousand km2, the population is 288 thousand people. (2002). State language - Icelandic. Capital - Reykjavik (approx. 113 thousand people). State holiday - Independence Day on June 17 (from 1944). Monetary unit - Icelandic Crown (100 Eyre).

Member of International Organizations: UN (from 1946), NATO (from 1949), Northern Council (from 1952), OECD (since 1961), EAT (since 1970).

Sights of Iceland.

Geography of Iceland.

Iceland Island is the second largest in Europe. Its northern point reaches the Northern Polar Circle, and the South South-Litter is located on the breadth of 63 ° 24 'of northern latitude. From the west to east, the island stretches for 480 km - between 13 ° 28 'and 24 ° 32' Western longitude and between 18 ° and 65 ° of northern latitude. In the north is washed by Greenland, in the East - Norwegian seas, in the West, the Danish Strait separates from Greenland. The surface is plateore (height 400-800 m), almost from all sides turns cool to the marine shores. The prevailing relief is volcanic plateau with vertices up to 2 km. There is approx. 200 volcanoes, from which OK. 30 valid (hwannadalshnucur - the highest point of 2119 m). Frequent earthquakes. The consequences of volcanic activity are gases, geysers and mud lakes. Minerals are associated with volcanism: Icelandic sword, sulfur, salt, mineral springs.

The thick network of short rivers is the largest Tours (237 km). Many lakes of tectonic, volcanic and glacial origin (3% of the territory, the largest Tingvadlavatn - 83.7 km2). St. 10% (11.9 thousand km2) is covered with glaciers. The largest Vatnayyukudle in Europe (8.5 thousand km2; ice power up to 1000 m). Length coastline 5 thousand km, the coast is strongly dissected by numerous fjords and bays.

Climate subarctic, marine. The average temperature of July in Reykjavik + 11.2 ° C, and January -1 ° C, in the mountains is colder. Thanks to the Golf Stream, the climate is much softer, but very windy. The weather changes dramatically depending on the passage of cyclones. Precipitation from 500 to 4000 mm per year. In the inner areas in winter, stable snow cover (in places up to 5 months). Throughout the summer - white nights.

Mineral soil, lesson type, partly marsh, enriched with derivative volcanic ash. The vegetation is scanty, represented by the tundra species, semi-student "forests" (6% of the area) and juicy meadows (550 km2). 2/3 of the territory is covered with stone browsing with mshami and lichens. Animal world Poor: Northern deer, Sands and Mine-shaped rodents; In the waters of the ocean - seals, nerves, whales. W. northern coast White bears and walruses. Numerous seabirds are 66 species. In the lakes of Trout, in the salmon rivers. In the washing seas OK. 150 species of fish, incl. Having important commercial importance - herring, cod, pike, sea bass, halibut, as well as shrimp.

Population of Iceland

The average density is 2.3 people. 1 km2 (in the southwestern part of the island of 12 people. per 1 km2).

Birth rate 14.86%, mortality 6.87%. Groost for 2002 0.68%. The average life expectancy of men is 77.2 years old, women of 81.8 years. The age structure of the population: children under 14 - 23%, persons from 15 to 64 years - 65%, 65 years and older - 12%. Migration level 2.3%.

95% of the population lives in cities and villages, 40% is concentrated in Reykjavik, the second largest city - Corpavoguur (18 thousand), the third - Akureyri (16 thousand). 20% of the territory is not populated.

The ethnic composition is homogeneous, 99% make up Icelanders - descendants of Norwegians and Irish. Icelandic refers to the German group, has almost changed since the initial settlement times. Modern Icelanders easily read the original texts of ancient Saga and can trace their genealogy in the 10th centuries. The ethnic composition of the population, natural conditions and economic activity bring Iceland with Norway, which manifests itself in a number of essential traits of their peoples.

Evangelical Lutherans - 87% of believers, Catholics and Protestant communities - 3%. Christianity (Lutheran rite) was a state religion with gray. 16th century

History of Iceland.

The name of Iceland ("Ice Country Or Country of Ice") was given by Norwegian Wiking Fluff. Ingoulfur Adnarson was in the first Scandinavian settlement, which at 874 landed in the area of \u200b\u200bthe current capital Reykjavik (in the translation of the "smoking bay"). The nature of the settlement determined the features of the social and political system of the country. Representatives of labor nobility played the leading role. A collection of nobility and free people - bonds at the nationwide meeting - alhinga (a representative body of direct democracy was first convened OK. 930) issued laws and made court decisions.

Isolation from the outside world and the peculiarities of economic life led to the long preservation of generic traditions. In 1262-64, Iceland was subordinate to the Norwegian king due to weakening due to civil War During the era of Sturlungs. In 1380, Iceland, together with Norway, was in Unia with Denmark, and then (from 1397) as part of the Danish-Swedish-Norwegian squid. With the Lost Norway of the Status of the Kingdom in 1537, the Office passed to the Danish government. The spread of the Reformation and the introduction of Lutherancy (1540) meant for Icelanders the loss of balance of independence. The trading monopoly of the Danes (1602) was limited only to the con. 18 V. The eruption of the varnishes volcano in 1783 led to the massive case of sheep and hunger.

In the beginning. 19th century Icelanders began to seek political freedoms and self-government. The national liberation movement was headed by Just Sigurdsson (1811-79). The first success was the restoration of Alting in 1843, then the cancellation of the Danish trading monopoly in 1854 was followed and the adoption of the Constitution in 1874. December 1, 1918 between Iceland and Dania was concluded for 25 years the Union Agreement, which recognized the formal equality of the two countries and declared their constant neutrality. In the beginning. World War II, after the occupation of Denmark by the German fascist troops (April 1940), on May 10, 1940, English troops landed on the island. After the expiration of the Danish-Icelandic Treaty of the Danish-Icelandic Treaty, a referendum was held on May 20-23, 1944. Most Icelanders voted for termination of the Union and the proclamation of the republic. June 16, 1944 Alttention adopted the republican constitution, and on June 17, Iceland was proclaimed by the Republic. The first president was Sveyn Bjørnsson. In 1952, Ausheir Ausheirsson was changed, who was elected for the presidency also in 1956, 1960 and 1964. His successor in 1968 became Cry of Aldaryn, who in 1980 he lost his first woman to President Vigdis Finnbogadottir, who performed the authority four times until 1996. She changed the current President Olafur Grimsson, the former leader of the Left People's Union.

Since 1959, the government has coalition governments. With nach 1990s. Conservative Independence Party (PN) and the Liberal Progressive Party (PP) are headed by two main coalition blocks that are gaining 55-65% of the votes. The post of Prime Minister was held by Steinrimary Hermansson (1983-87) from PP, from Mon: Torstein Pilsson (1987-91) and David Odesson (since 1991).

State Device and Political System of Iceland

Iceland is a democratic unitary legal state, a republic with a presidential form of government. The 1944 Constitution operates with changes and additions (May 30, 1984 and 31 May 1991). Elections are held every 4 years and all citizens older than 18 years have the right to vote.

Administratively divided into 23 district (Sisla), 200 rural communities and 23 cities.

The head of state is the president, emphasizes the highest executive power, is elected by direct voting for a period of 4 years. The power of the president is limited and has a representative character. From August 1, 1996, the President of the country is Olafur Ragnar Grimsson. In 2000, the parliament decided, given the great popularity of the president and the lack of opponents, extend its powers without holding elections. President's residence - Bessandir.

The government - the Cabinet of Ministers led by the Prime Minister - is responsible for the alttention, but the ministers appoint the president. According to the results of the elections in the altting on May 10, 2003, the coalition government as part of Mon and PP continued its work. Prime Minister - Chairman of Mon D. Oddsson - a political long-lived in Europe, he heads the fourth government (in 1991-95 in the coalition with the Social Democratic Party of Iceland (IDPA), in 1995-99 in coalition with PP).

Legislative power belongs to one-chart alting (Althingi), which is considered the oldest in Europe, is called "the great-grandfather of parliaments." Consists of 63 deputies.

Party political system Close to Scandinavian, although interparty cooperation is carried out "over ideological barriers." On the right flank largest - Mon (conservative - SJALFSTAEDHISFLOKKUR), I took shape in 1929. It is adjacent to PP (Agrarian-Liberal Union - Framsoknarflokkurinn), founded in 1916. The left flank represents the Social Democratic Union - SDS, the heir to the Althydhuflokkurinn) In 1916, which traditionally enjoys the support of the part of the Federation of Icelandic trade unions. It is ideologically close to the People's Union - NA (Althydhubandalagid), founded in 1956 as a selective block of left socialists and communists.

On May 10, 2003, the next parliamentary elections of PN, headed by the current Prime Minister Odesson, received 33.7% of votes (22 deputies). An ally on the office of PP led by Halldor Asgrimsson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, - 17.7% (12 seats). The greatest increase compared with previous elections 1999 was received by the SDU headed by the popular Gisladottir - the former mayor of Reykjavik, their result was 31% (20 deputies). Levelless alliance - 8.8% (5 places), liberals - 7.4% (4 deputies). Although the ruling coalition lost 4 mandates compared to 1999, she managed to form the Cabinet of Ministers, to preserve the previous directions of his policy.

The judicial system is carried out on two levels: Supreme Court Of the 5 members, the president and 26 local (besides a number of special) courts are appointed.

In the internal policy dominates the coalition of four political parties in different combinations. The most important topics of election campaigns are the issues of tax policy, the struggle for accessing fishing quotas and the problems of environmental protection. However, the tasks faced by the government in recent years was to develop effective measures against fish and abbreviation transfer (approximately 20%) of fishery sizes Fleet.

The main theme of domestic discussions - relations with the EU. Although the country in 1994 (together with Norway and Liechtenstein) signed an agreement on a single economic space (EEP) from the EU and thereby settled its trade and economic relations, Reykjavik fears full membership due to the Fishery EU Fishing Policy.

Iceland stubbornly resisted attempts to international environmental organizations to impose a moratorium on the fishery of whales and agreed with him only in 1989 under the threat of merchant boycott. All R. 1990s. The government approved the resumption of whaling fishery in a limited scale, and later decided to resume it since 2006, which caused a sharp debate: the kitobi was not satisfied with the tightness, and travel companies believe that this will undermine their business.

The main directions of Icelandic foreign policy are based on: 1) northern cooperation, in particular within the Northern Council; 2) membership in NATO; 3) close connections with the EU through the EEA Agreement; 4) participation in the UN, especially on environmental and environmental issues, and 5) to continue cooperation on defense issues with the United States.

Safety policy is determined by the geostrategic position of the island playing a key role to protect North America. In 1946, the allest decided to transfer the airfield in Keflavik (50 km from Reykjavik) for the Base of the US Air Force. In 1948, the country joined the Marshall Plan, and in 1949 he joined NATO. In a difficult international situation on May 5, 1951, the US-Icelandic Agreement "On Defense" was concluded, which consolidated the status of the US military base. The unfolded movement for the conclusion of foreign troops forced the government to repeatedly discuss the question of their presence. In 1985, the alttention declared Iceland a "nuclear-free zone", banning NATO to place any nuclear weapons on its territory.

Relations with European neighbors and their integration associations - the EU and EAT developed depending on solving the problems of fisheries. Fighting for the preservation of the conditions of reproduction of fish resources, Iceland expanded in 1952 borders of the fishing area from 3 to 6 nautical miles. In 1958, Iceland extended its jurisdiction to 12 nautical miles, which caused the Protests of Great Britain. In 1972 again expanded the border to 50 nautical miles, which led to the "Fish War" and shakes between Icelandic and British courts. In 1975 - up to 200 sea miles, which provoked the third and most serious "cream" war. These contradictions were allowed only to NC. 1990s. During the negotiations between EAT and UES. The final document adopted in 1994 recognized the rights of Iceland in its concessions of the EU, which did not eliminate mutual disputes.

In accordance with the UN Marine Right Convention (entered into force on November 16, 1994) Iceland, it is necessary to resolve the problem of the limitation of the shelf to the south - Rockney Rockney district and the area of \u200b\u200bHatton Rockal, west - in the Herring Luplecholl district. Iceland, Denmark (on behalf of Faroe Islands), United Kingdom and Ireland are involved in grave negotiations. The principle is not defined - distinction or joint operation, but Reykjavik in Spring 2000 suggested London to start bilateral consultations.

Since the EU fishing policy is contrary to the economic interests of Iceland, its government refrains from participating in this organization. After the fifth expansion of the EU, the Commission of the European Union nominated the requirement to deduct the Reykjavik contributions to the EU funds at 127-155 million euros for the access of Icelandic products to its expanded markets. Upon joining the EU, the funds of a full member of the contribution of Iceland may amount to 57 to 86 million euros with a loss of national control over the access of foreign seiners in Icelandic water. Only SDS speaks from the pro-European positions for holding a referendum on the integration issue until 2007. The preservation of the ruling coalition consisting of Mon and PP will not lead to a change in the policy of the ruling manual.

NATO Little Iceland intends to keep up with allies and participate in peacekeeping operations: a list of 100 volunteers (police officers, doctors, engineers, rescuers) for such missions has been formed. As an active member of the UN, Iceland nominated his candidacy and was supported by the countries of Northern Europe as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2009-10. Icelandic fishing companies are actively sharing their experience and technologies in the UN Fishing Commission.

With the exception of several patrol vessels of the coast guard service - 120 people, the country has no armed forces. But remains a strategically important member of NATO and on the basis of a bilateral Icelandic-American agreement 1951 (extended in 1996) Keflavik airport is the base for the US Air Force. Here are sv. 2 thousand people American military personnel and allocated Icelandic citizens are placed by defensive forces of Iceland in NATO as part of the 85th United States Air Force (Avaks, R-3C, RS and KS-135 aircraft) and 25 services and commanders.

Iceland has diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation (established from the USSR in 1944, and from 1926 they were supported through Denmark). She is the first among western countries He recognized the independence of the Baltic countries, its embassy in Moscow represents interests in the CIS.

Economy Iceland.

Iceland refers to countries with monocultural economy, since it is based on fishing and subsequent processing, even despite the emergence of new industries and industries. Fisheries and fishing (25-30% of the cost of GDP) remain an international specialization of the country, where it occupies one of the leading places to export fish products. Fisheries (in 2001-55% of exports and 62% of foreign trade revenues of the country, agriculture - 2%, industry - 32%) is a powerful industry. Bioresource control bodies, based on constant monitoring of marine waters, determine fish quotas. They are distributed through auctions without state intervention. Hard competition led to a decrease in the number of quotas holders and a significant concentration of capital, thanks to which Icelandic fishermen are competitive in the global market. Performance per fisherman is more than 200 tons per year in Iceland, while the next Norway has 60 tons, and in EU countries - 30 tons.

According to the structure of Employment, Iceland looks like an industrialized country: in agriculture 7.8%, in industry 22.6%, and in the service sector of 69.6%. In the fish processing complex, 12% of the economically active population is employed, 1% foreign workers, in particular from Poland. According to the catch of fish (in 2001 1986 thousand tons), the country takes 6-7th place in Europe. The main products are mainly herring and cod: ice cream, salty (herring) and dried fish, fishery and fish flour. The sustainable technological development of the fishing industry continues, despite the reduction of fish resources. Icelandic economy is at a fairly high level. Although GDP in 2002 is 774,418 million IAS. Kron ($ 8.5 billion), but per capita - $ 29.446. The increase in 2002 0.5%, whereas for 1955-2001 it amounted to 3.9%.

The second pillar of national wealth is hydropower, the reserves of which are estimated at 30 billion kW / h, and geothermal reserves are estimated at 1.5 million GW / h annually. Used only 1/8 of the energy processing of rivers. Electricity production in 2001 8.02 billion kW (28 thousand kW - 3rd place in the world for per capita). Produced on HPP 16.7% of energy, geothermal - 55.4%, and on import oil and angle - 28%. St. 3/4 of the population lives in houses heated by geothermal waters.

Icelanders seek to diversify its industry on the basis of energy, in which 1/3 of the population is employed. The main industrial production is an aluminum plant operating on local electricity and imported raw materials. Import of aluminum dioxide - $ 50-60 million, and exports of aluminum - $ 220-250 million. Development of energy-intensive industries is involved in foreign capital (Norwegian, Swiss): production of nitrogen fertilizers in Gwuneshe, aluminum - in the area of \u200b\u200bHubnaffjordura, Stroimsvik, Factory Mineral fertilizers near Reykjavik.

There are many small shipping shipping enterprises serving fishing fleet. For the domestic market, a number of products are made of food, sewing, furniture, electrical industries and building materials. The country participates in the processes of globalization through information technologies belonging to the new economy: design and software production. Icelanders seek to develop alternative energy sources, R & D is conducted for the production of hydrogen fuel by electrolysis of water. The government subsidizes the project of using hydrogenous energy involving foreign companies. For 20 years, the government intends to translate motor vehicles and a fishing fleet by t. N. Fuel cells by obtaining from hydrogen and carbon dioxide methanol, which can be distributed through an existing network of auto-refills.

Agriculture is focused exclusively on meat-sized sheep and dairy animal husbandry. Agricultural land make up 23% of the territory (2.3 million hectares) and are used under the meadows and pastures. On the processed 1 thousand hectares, feed herbs and potatoes are grown. Significant progress in the development of greenhouse economy (in the south of the island) based on the use of thermal sources. The country provides meat, fresh vegetables and dairy products, but imports grain and other types of food. The state provides support for 6 thousand farms, allocating subsidies and limiting imports.

IN transport system The leading role is played by shipping - 1.2 thousand courts with a common displacement of 233 thousand tons, of which: a trading fleet - 40 vessels tonnage 10 thousand register tons, 1 thousand trawlers and other fishing vessels - 200 thousand tons. Domestic transportation is carried out Auto and air transport, coastal courts. There are no railways. Length road roads 13 thousand km, from them with a solid coating of 4 thousand km. Most roads have gravel coating. HergingVegur ring road with a length of 1,400 km. There are 160 thousand cars, 548 cars for 1 thousand people. In 2001 12 airports with concrete runway transported 1.36 million passengers.

The government, as in other Scandinavian countries, conducts economic policies aimed at economic growth and full-time employment. Public sector 43.9% of GDP in 2000. The main problems are the volume of fishing, fluctuations in the prices of it and the level of costs associated with fuel prices, since the fishing fleet will remain the main consumer of imported petroleum products. Here are focused on the "state of universal well-being" model, in which social programs (25.9% of GDP 2000) are widely. Wage growth in 2002 amounted to 5.6%. Thanks to the authorities policy, the unemployment rate does not exceed 3.9% at 43-hour working Week and inflation rate is 6.7%.

The main problem of foreign trade is to ensure a positive balance of foreign trade balance (in 2001 - 0.9% of GDP), which is associated with the limited natural resources and the world market conditions. Common debt 96.2% of GDP in 2001. Exports of $ 2 billion (25% of GDP), and imports of $ 2.5 billion (27.4%). External debt of the country at the level of 2.2-2.6 billion dollars. Export geography: EU countries 65%, US 13%, Japan 5%. Import Geography: EU 56%, Norway 9%, USA 11%. The country accepted 1.2 million tourists. Commodity turnover between Iceland and the Russian Federation - $ 43.8 million with a positive balance of the Russian Federation.

Iceland science and culture

The country is characterized by a high level of culture development due to long-standing literary traditions and a high standard of learning. In public schools, compulsory and free learning for all children from 6 to 15 years. In 2001, primary education is covered (from 6 to 12 years old) 31.5 thousand students, the average (from 13 to 15 years) 12.6 thousand, high school students - 20.7 thousand graded high school is provided to continue four-year college training Or professional schools, after which you can enter the Iceland University (founded in 1911) or to a new university in Akureyri. In the country, 12 thousand students and 2 thousand abroad. All educational institutions receive subsidies from the central and municipal authorities.

Research research in humanitarian and some accurate sciences has been sufficiently developed. Coordinating Authority - National Research Council - is actively involved in the organization of R & D on leading areas. The university has a research institute. Natural scientific research is carried out by the National Museum, various societies, special organizations and funds.

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 near him. The name of the country literally means an ice country. The northern point of Iceland reaches the Northern Polar Circle, and South, 306 km. From it, located on a latitude of 63 degrees 24 minutes S.Sh. The length of the island from the west to the East is 480 km.

Square of the country 103 thousand square meters. km.

SAMI high Point - Mount Hwwanadalshnukur (2119 m).

Population 317.900 people (20010).

Population density - 2.6 people per 1 square meter. km.

The share of urban population - 91%, rural - 9%.

Capital - City Reykjavik (118.427 people).

Official language - Icelandic.

State Religion - Lutheranism.

Administrative division: Consists of 8 Sisla: Ausyurland (administrative center - G. Iglstadur), Westfirdir (Isafjordur), Westureland (Borgarnes), Nordurland Vestra (Stadiur), Nordurland Eystra (Akureyri), Sudührland (Selfoss ), Sudurnes (Keblavik), Hofudborgarswaei (Reykjavik).

Currency: Icelandic crown

Telephone code +354

Geography of Iceland.

The Republic of Iceland is an island state located in the northern part of the Atlantic Ocean (northwest of the UK). The territory of the state consists of the island of Iceland and small islands near him.

There are more than 120 glaciers on the island, a large number of lakes and rivers. Iceland also differs in a large number of volcanoes, crater and hot springs. Of the more than 100 volcanoes 25 were erupted for the last thousand years. The most famous among them is Gekla (1491 m) and varnishes that have about 100 crater.

Climate

Contrary to its name and the presence of Iceland glaciers - by no means an arctic country. The warm water of the north-Atlantic flow (continuation of the Golfstream), whose branch goes along the southern and western shores of the island is provided with a mitigating effect on its climate. The average annual temperature on the south-west coast in Reykjavik 4 ° C, the average temperature of January -1 ° C, July 11 ° C. Relevant indicators on the northern coast in Akureyri 3 ° C, -2 ° C and 11 ° C. Coastal waters are free From ice throughout the year. The exception is made by removal polar ice In the north and east. Due to the significant improvement in the climate since the beginning of the 1920s, the removal of polar ice to the shores of Iceland occurred only once in 1965. The weather in this country changes dramatically, sometimes during the day, which depends on the passage of cyclones in the eastern direction through the Atlantic Ocean. The average annual precipitation is 1300-2000 mm on the southern coast, 500-750 mm on the northern and over 3,800 mm on the south of Vatnayajudle and Middalsyukyudla open.

History

The settlement of Iceland occurred in the 9th century as a result of the union of Norway under the rule of the King Harald I. Many families who entered into conflict with Harald were forced to run in search of a new place to live. As it settled in Iceland, the state system was formed. In each area there was a Ting (meeting, analogue of the Weff), on which the court was peaked and disputes were solved; To solve the most important issues, representatives of the areas were collected at the beginning of the summer to the altting under the control of a special person - the coordinator. For the first time, the altint was convened in 930, and it was from this date that the era of democracy is counted. In 1262, Iceland was forced to sign the so-called "old contract" with Norway, according to which she recognized the supreme power of the Norwegian kings, and those, in turn, were obliged to send to Icelanders every year for several ships with forest, grain and other goods. Dynastic migration of power in the Scandinavian countries, accordingly, changed Iceland's subordination.

On February 23, 1551, an uprising from the Danish domination broke out in Iceland. The punishment of the last Iceland Catholic bishop of Ion Aranson and his sons served to the uprising. The rebels Icelanders were interpretable all the Danes. However, the punitive expedition of the Danish king Christian III was not difficult to bring "order" in a small country. In 1567, weapons were taken away from Icelandic peasants, and they had to come to terms with foreign domination for a long time. After the termination of the Danish-Norwegian Ulya in 1814, the island ownership of Norway, including Iceland, was left as part of Denmark. In 1845, parliament was recreated as a lawyer. He received the antextric name "Alttention". As a result, more than a hundred years of peaceful struggle for independence on December 1, 1918, Iceland was declared an independent kingdom in personal union with Denmark. During World War II, the German occupation of Denmark on April 9, 1940 broke the relationship between Denmark and Iceland. In May 1940, the United Kingdom captures Iceland and in 1941 passes the right occupation of the Island of the United States. From June 17, 1944, Iceland acquires complete independence and becomes the republic.

Culture of Iceland.

Among all other European, Iceland culture is rightly considered the most distinctive and unique. The reason for this - and some isoral state isolation, and the personal qualities of the Icelanders themselves who are inherent in conservatism and commitment to national traditions. A considerable seven weather conditions, a solid duration of polar days and nights, cutting from a large land due to frequent floods and snowy drifts, contributed to the formation of cultural traditions of the state.

Language and names

Due to the remoteness and isolation from the rest of Europe, Iceland's language retained its special similarity with the ancient Scandinavian adverbs. Observing the purity of the language, Icelanders in every way impede the penetration of foreign words and neologisms into it. Thanks to the ancient roots, the Iceland language is considered one of the richest in the world.

Interesting traditions have retained Icelanders and in relation to names. There are no names for indigenous people in the country, and there are only names and patronymic, and a person who does not have an Icelandic name could become a citizen of the country.

An important part of the culture of Iceland is literature, the origins of which are torn to the Old Mountain Folk Traditions. The main works that have come down to us from the time of Vikings are saga, or generic prose testes. They were also told about royal dynasties, and about famous warriors. The modern literature of Iceland introduces the reader with the works of H. K. Laksens, who received the Nobel Prize for his activities.

Northern architecture

In the traditional culture of Iceland, preference was given to the construction of houses from peat blocks. The roofs of squat buildings were covered with turf, which is why it was cool and dry in the summer, and in winter it is warm. Medieval masters were famous for wood carvings, decorated with utensils and furniture.

The main attractions of the Irish architecture are churches and cathedrals:

• The Cathedral of the capital, erected in the middle of the XVIII century, the famous baptial font of the work B. Torvaldsen.
• Lutheran Church of Hadlgrimskirkia in the center of Reykjavik, which has become a business card of the city. The mechanical organ of the temple weighs more than 25 tons, and its height equals 15 meters. By the way, it is with observation deck The church opens the luxurious view of the capital of Iceland.

Kitchen Iceland.

Main products of Icelandic cuisine - fish, meat, vegetables, dairy products, cheese.

• Hangikjöt - Smoked lamb;
• Harðfiskur - dried fish;
• SALTKJÖT - Salted lamb;
• BJUGU - smoked sausage;
• ÞOrramatur - pickled meat or fish (including sharks meat);
• LAX - salmon dish.

Traditional Icelandic soft drink - Skyr (SKIR), which is made of sour milk, reminds yogurt.

As for alcoholic beverages in Iceland, the inhabitants of this country prefer beer and local potato vodka with Tmin Brennivín.

Sights of Iceland.

Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon - Geothermal pool, known all over the world. Moreover, it is really unique. The lagoon of the sky is the most real symbol of the Northern country and one of the favorite Scandinavian resorts. Due to the unique composition of water, the bacteria in the blue lagoon simply do not survive.

Tingwellir

It was in Tingwellire that there was a place for collecting a parliament, the so-called alting, by whom more than a thousand years ago, in 930, the first settlers laid the formation of the new people - Icelanders. It is believed that after this, the descendants of the Vikings were united among themselves in one nation.

Tower "Imagine the World"

One of the most touching monuments dedicated to the beloved person is the brainchild of Yoko, the famous widow of the legendary Bitla John Lennon. But as all that this couple did, the monument can not be called just a block of stone - this is a global work of art in his own way and send to the world.

Mount Essia.

The volcano, which was erupted 2-3 million years ago, "Guardian Angel" Reykjavik and one of the most common names from blonde Icelandic girls - all this ace, a mountain that rises 10 km from the country's capital to the joy of all lovers of panoramic species.

House Höwdi

The amazing story of a small mansion, which without the knowledge of the authorities appeared on the northern lands of the capital of Iceland, makes the crowd of tourists approach, alas, closed for visiting Höwy's home, look into the windows and do the traditional "selfie" on his background.

Whale fjord

Prappi fjord translated from Icelandic means "whale fjord". It is located at the western banks of Iceland between the cities of Mosfedlsbire and Akranes and received its name due to the fact that many whales are really working here, which can be seen from the shore.

Concert Hall and Congress Center "Harpa"

The new diamond in the Reykjavik collection, which appeared on the map of the city not so long ago - is concert hall and the Congress Center "Harpa", which became the laureate of the prestigious architectural award of MIR Van der Roe in 2013. An amazing building resembles a spacecraft from the future.

Cultural Center "Person"

Avant-garde, extravagant and just the eccentric Bjorka was not accidentally born in Reykjavik. Well, in what other country of the world could grow this fragile young lady with crazy ideas and a brilliant voice, as not in Iceland, where are the cultural center from the city boiler room?

Landacotskirkya

It cannot be said that Iceland in general, and Reykjavik in particular boasts the wealth of architectural attractions. Yes, they do not need it, because all this with more than paying up by an amazing flavor of life and, of course, nature.

Vidsey Island

Viday Island is a unique place, but little-known even tourists, which risked to get into the simply expanses of this ancient and beautiful as an elven saga country. It is also illudine: the beauty of national parks, thermal geysers and waterfalls overshadow the inconspicuous island of sushi at first glance.

Monument Sun Voyager.

"Sunny Wanderer" or "Sunny Traveler" - this is how one of the most uncomplicated and therefore ingenious sculptures in the world translates into Russian. Created by sketches of a talented Icelandic artist Jona Gunnar Arnason, Sun Voyager was installed on the Reykjavik embankment.

Town Hall Reykjavika

One of the most controversial attractions of the capital of Iceland, located in the heart of the city and still causing a rapid discussion, and sometimes condemnation of local residents. Of course, we are talking about Reykjavik City Town Hall.

Folk Museum Arbaaresafn

The biggest museum under open sky In Iceland, which is located at once in 30 buildings and introduces visitors with Reykjavik Giving "- this is Arbaearsafn, a real treasury of the original folklore, amazing traditions and the ancient architecture of this northern country.

Hadlgrimskiga

Powerful, vanishing futuristic and roughly spanning sky, the building of the Lutheran Church of Hadlgrimskirkia, it would be better in the TV series "Babylon-5", rather than in the center of one of the capitals of the old world. In most of the orthodox tourists, the appearance of the temple causes bewilderment.

Church of Scaulcholt

Scululholt Church is located in the city of the same name in the south of Iceland on the banks of the River Cyvitau. Previously, there was a very rich hitor Gitsura White - one of the first Christian priests. Hickur himself was a very educated and respected man, he built a church here.

Capital of Iceland.

The capital of Iceland is Reykjavik. Its name is that translated from Icelandic means "bay of smoke", he received from a couple of hot springs in its surroundings. Half of the country's total population lives here - 180 thousand people. Reykjavik is a city in which you will not find squares, their role is carried out by parking, which are traditionally huge, - most of the Icelanders drive on jeeps or "big-feet", and they go to them and in the city itself, which begins to resemble the Northern Prairie, Mexico in the snow. There is a sea embankment of the highway size, the port where cruise ships come from the "Big Earth" and picking up the grid of narrow "rustic" streets.

Reykjavik - very old town. Its foundation refer to the year of the opening of Iceland itself. The Anteland Saga is narrated that Reykjavik is based on the place where the first permanent settler Ingolphur Arnarson built his home in 874. For a long time locality He was a simple fishing village in which the Danes lived. But no historical monuments left here. Stone protective fortresses were not initially built - no one would have fallen into this edge of light.

Tourist

Cities and resorts

The largest Icelandic cities are Habnarfjordur, Akureyri, Kopavoguur, and, of course, Reykjavik.

In Iceland, there are a lot of geysers and lakes that possess therapeutic properties. Therefore, it is not surprising that there are several geothermal resorts in this country. The most famous of them is located on the Lake Blue Laguna.

Souvenirs / Shopping

Tourists from Iceland usually bring jewelry from volcanic lava (necklaces, earrings, bracelets), elf figurines, wool Icelandic sweater, Icelandic scarves and caps, CDs with Icelandic music, medical cosmetics from Lake Blue Laguna, Icelandic potato vodka Brennivín .

Work hours of institutions

Banks:

Mon-Fri: 09: 15-16: 00

On weekends, banks do not work.

The shops:

Mon-Fri: 08: 30-19: 00

Sun: 10: 00-16: 00

Currency of Iceland

Official currency in Iceland - Icelandic Crown (her international designation - ISK). Credit cards Accepted hotels and large stores.

Customs restrictions

Import and export of currency in Iceland is not limited. Customs regulations In Iceland, the same as in Western European countries.

Tip

In Iceland, tips are already included in the account. Therefore, Icelanders are very surprised when foreign tourists give them money "for tea". Nevertheless, foreigners for excellent service in Iceland give 10% of the tips.

Medicine

For entry into Iceland, no special vaccinations are needed, but medical insurance is required.

Safety

In Iceland, crime is at a very low level. Outside Reykjavik, Icelanders almost never closes the doors of their homes. Nevertheless, tourists in Iceland still do not need to be careless.

25 facts about Icelandy through the eyes of a Russian

1. Iceland is one of the most unclosed countries in the world, about 320 thousand people live here, and until the Second World War, the population of the country was only 50 thousand.
2. Since in Iceland, everyone knows each other, with parting or divorce a couple, it always tries to keep good relationships. Cases where a former guy does not communicate with a former girl or former spouses do not speak with each other extremely rare, because in any case almost all friends and familiar are common.
3. Instead of surnames in Iceland - Patronians, that is, analogue of our middle name. The "Sleep" particle is added to the name of the father (that is, son) or "Dottir" (if this is a daughter), it turns out, for example, Silia Palmarsdottir, that is, Silia Daughter Palmarce.
4. Icelanders are confident that blowing around is harmful to health, so in winter there are all the noses, that is, sorry, pull the snot.
5. But to spit, on the contrary, it is not considered indecent, even the girls spit on the street without any problems and in public places.
6. In fact, in Iceland in the winter is not as cold as we used to think, the temperature is rarely lowered below - 6 degrees.
7. But in winter in Iceland dark, December 21 - on the shortest day of the year the dawn occurs at 10.30, and the sun sits down at 16.00. In the summer, long nights come to replace long nights, compared to which white nights in St. Petersburg simply did not go about, in June Iceland the sun sits just a couple of hours.
8. The lack of sunlight in winter is somewhat compensated by the Northern Light, it can be observed constantly, so after a couple of weeks it is no longer paying attention to it.
9. Since the sun does not shine in Iceland in Iceland, all the inhabitants of the country, in order to avoid rickets and other unpleasant diseases, are mandatoryly taken fish oil, but not in liquid form, but in tasteless capsules.
10. Almost all the inhabitants of Iceland have profiles on Facebook, according to the latest data, Iceland is an active country in the social network.
11. In Iceland, if a person is well located to you, it demonstrates it, something and the case touches you.
12. Blondes in Iceland is an order of magnitude more than brunettes, so local residents love to paint hair into a darker shade.
13. In order to spend the night with an Icelandic girl, no longer courtship is required, most Icelandes, what is called Easy Going, including the Italians and Spaniards are like to come to Reykjavik.
14. The most popular specialties in Iceland are an artist, a musician or designer. Each second bartender or the waiter is trying to get an education in a creative specialty, and at the same time plays in some rock or folk group.
15. According to the designers described above, for example, in order to come up with an apartment or wedding dress design, no one uses here. The inhabitants of Iceland are confident that each of them is the artist himself, so the interior of the apartment, and the design of the dress they prefer to invent on their own.
16. Repair in apartments are also made mainly with your own hands, without hiring workers.
17. Most popular names in Iceland: Male - Jon and Women's - Guvrun. Also, old mythological names are still common, for example, Aðalsteinn, which means "main stone".
18. Icelanders, like Russians, love to use in everyday life not full, and abbreviated versions of names, so David in the decreasing Icelandic version will be Dubby, Gouvun - Gunna, Stefan - Stephapni, Jon - Nonnie, etc.
19. Iceland's language has practically not changed over the past 1000 years, so there are letters that have disappeared from English, plus residents of the country without any problems can read vintage Viking Sagins in the original.
20. Police in Iceland do not wear weapons, they are not issued pistols.
21. In Iceland's homes, as in Russia, the system of central heating is valid, which is beneficial to the country from Italy or France, where for each inclusion of the heater has to pay.
22. National dish of Iceland - Haukarl - chopped rotten meat of the Greenland shark with small pieces. If you do not chew and just swallow - it is still quite edible, but if the meat can you feel, you will feel "magic" taste of urea. The fact is, Greenland the shark has no urinary tract and its meat contains poisonous ammonia. In order for the meat to eat, it is left for three months to shine underground or in the basement. The taste of this dish, including the mocked creators of "Simpsons" in one of the episodes of the animated series.
23. In Iceland, they are mostly fish, while all the dishes are watered over the measure of mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup, after which the real taste of the fish can not be recognized.
24. 2148 people in Iceland adhere to the pagan exercise of Ásatrú Association, which is based on the revival of Icelandic and Norwegian pagan beliefs. This religion is officially adopted, and its ministers can take a rite of wedding, which is equal to traditional marriage registration.
25. All Icelanders wear Lopapeysa - a knitted sweater from sheep wool with a characteristic national pattern. It can be said that this is the most example of a national costume that has not disappeared over time.

Video

Landafræði íslands. 65 ° C. sh. 18 ° C. d. H.G.IO.L.

In the north is the island is washed by the Greenland Sea, in the East - Norwegian; In the West, the Danish Strait of 280 km width separates it from Greenland.

The total area of \u200b\u200bIceland is about 103 thousand km² (18th place in the world among the islands). Of these, 11.8 thousand km² are covered with glaciers. Lakes and glaciers occupy 14.3% of the territory; Vegetation covered only 23%. The largest lakes: Torisvatn (reservoir) (83-88 km²) and Tingvadlavatn (82 km²). The central part of the island is a desert area of \u200b\u200bvolcanoes, sandy and lava fields, Nagrai and glaciers. The plateau is dominated from 500 to 1000 m height. For habitat, only 1/4 of the territory is suitable - coastal lowlands and valleys.

Geological Education

The rift of the earth's crust formed by the discrepancy between the North American and Eurasian plates

Iceland Island is located on the ridge of the north-Atlantic global tectonic seam, along which the discrepancy between the North American and Eurasian lithospheric plates occurs.

The island is complex with powerful layers of basalt and other lavs who have poured out gradually from the Lower Miocene to today, that is, for 20 million years. Lava layering thickness reaches 7 km.

Video on the topic

Volcanoes

Iceland is one of the most active regions of volcanic activity on Earth. The eruptions occur here on average every five years [ ]. On the territory of the island are located existing volcanoes (Gekla, varnishes), geysers, hot springs. Due to the constant discrepancy of plates on the island, there are eruptions of volcanoes and earthquakes periodically.

Volcano Gekla

Glacier, covered with ashes, after eruption of the volcano EYAFYADLYEKYUDL

Gekla is the most popular volcano in Iceland. Its perfectly correct gentle cone is clearly visible from Reykjavik, and for Icelanders this mountain is the same national symbol as for the Japanese Fuja. And just like in Japan, thousands of tourists seek to rise every year on its vertex and look into the dark depth of the crater.

However, the classic central type volcanoes are not too typical for Iceland. Here is another - fractured - type of volcanism. A vivid example is the Vulcan varnishes - it is not even a volcano, but a gigantic crack in the earth's crust filled with frozen lava.

Furious centuries ago Pushcha Vulcan is visible from everywhere in Reykjavik as a long mountain, almost a whole ridge, with a flat vertex. People's Solva claims that the ace is a petrified Giant. Geologists believe that the mountain was formed from the numerous frozen streams of Lava, which lay on the other for many centuries.

Glaciers

The island area is 103 thousand km², of which 11.8 thousand km² are covered with glaciers. The largest covering glacier (the largest in volume not only in Iceland, but also throughout Europe) - Vatnayukudl - located in the south-east of the island. Its area is 8300 km². This is an extensive ice plateau, puzzled in eight places of extinct and existing volcanoes. Other large ice caps are Hofsyukudle and Laongyukudle in the inside of the island and Middalsyukyudle and Eyafyadlayukyudle in the south (cover the acting volcanoes). Icelandic glaciers are the largest area of \u200b\u200bmodern glaciation in Europe.