Khaberni - Greenland is often viewed as a land of cold ice and constant frost, but the truth is that this enormous island conceals a long history, a rich culture and amazing natural wonders.
According to the Visit Greenland website, here are the top 10 surprising facts about Greenland that may surprise you and change your perceptions of it:
1. The largest island in the world
Greenland covers 2.16 million square kilometers, making it the largest island in the world. Ice covers about 80% of its area, yet its ice-free area is roughly equivalent to the size of Sweden. It has a population of about 56,000 people, making it one of the least densely populated areas in the world.
2. Greenland was once green
It was named “Greenland” by Erik the Red to attract settlers, but scientific studies have shown that the island was green more than 2.5 million years ago, with soil preserved under miles of ice.
3. A self-governing country
Greenland is a self-governing country within the Kingdom of Denmark. Although geographically part of North America, it has historically been associated with Europe. It gained self-governance in 1979 and expanded it in 2009, gradually transferring more powers to its government.
4. Long human history
Humans reached the island around 2500 BC. Norse settlers arrived in the 10th century and disappeared in the 15th century, while the Inuit arrived in the 13th century and their descendants still make up the majority of the population today.
5. Inuit culture
The Inuit or a mix of Danes and Inuit make up about 88% of the population. The local name is Kalaallit, not “Eskimos”, and they share culture and language with the Inuit in Canada and Alaska.
6. Multilingual language
Most Greenlanders speak Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) and Danish, and the younger generation also learns English. Words like “kayak” and “igloo” originate from Greenland.
7. No roads between cities
There are no roads or railways connecting the cities of Greenland. Residents rely on planes, boats, helicopters, snowmobiles or dog sleds, with boats dominating summer transportation.
8. Whale and fish hunting
Fishing is the main industry in Greenland, with specific quotas for whales, seals, and fish. Whale and seal meat is consumed locally only, with no exports.
9. The capital Nuuk
About a quarter of Greenland's population lives in Nuuk, a small but urban city featuring museums, cultural centers, stores, and boutiques, surrounded by stunning fjords and mountains.
10. Midnight sun
From May 25 to July 25 each year, the sun does not set in Greenland, creating the phenomenal midnight sun. The summer solstice on June 21 is celebrated as a national holiday.
