Iceland geographical location of the country. Geography presentation "Economic and geographical characteristics of Iceland". Useful information for tourists

Republic of Iceland.

The name of the country comes from island - "ice country".

Capital of Iceland. Reykjavik is the northernmost capital in the world.

Iceland Square. 102819 km2.

Population of Iceland. 272 thousand people

Location of Iceland. Iceland is an island state in the northern part, 300 km east of and 1000 km west of. Administrative division. It is divided into 23 districts (sisla).

Icelandic form of government. Republic.

Head of State of Iceland. President elected for a term of 4 years.

Supreme legislature of Iceland. Unicameral Parliament (Althing) with a term of office of 4 years.

Higher executive agency Iceland. government appointed by the president.

Major cities in Iceland. Kipavugur, Hafnafjordur, Akureyri, Keflavik, Vestmannayar.

Official language of Iceland. Icelandic.

Religion in Iceland. 96% - Lutherans, 3% -.

Ethnic composition of Iceland. 99% are Icelanders.

Currency of Iceland. Icelandic krone = 100 aire.

Fauna of Iceland. The fauna is characterized by some mouse-like, arctic foxes, reindeer and mink live in the interior. On the north coast floating ice polar bears appear. Walruses live in coastal waters. Iceland is famous for its variety of birds (more than 100 species), as well as a large number of salmon and trout. About 150 species of fish live in coastal waters - cod, sea bass, halibut, haddock, herring, etc.

Video source: AirPano.ru

Rivers and lakes of Iceland. The territory of Iceland is covered with a dense network (many have rapids and waterfalls up to 60 m), the largest of which is Thjoursau (237 km). many lakes of tectonic, and origin. The largest is Tingvadlavatn.

Landmarks of Iceland. The famous Valley of Geysers, the National Museum, the cathedrals in Reykjavik and Hollar, the monument to Leif Erikson in honor of the 1000th anniversary of the founding of the Althing. There are over 200 volcanoes on the island.

Helpful information for tourists

Tipping in Iceland is usually given only in restaurants and hotels. In all other cases, they are included in the service bill. It is not customary to tip hairdressers and taxi drivers. In fashionable hotels, restaurants and nightclubs paid wardrobe. The country is very expensive.

Isolated Iceland, being an economically developed region, stands up for the preservation of its foundations and identity. Residents of the state do not want to join the EU. With little stock natural resources, they managed to create a strong economy and rationally use the complex tectonic features of the area.

Geographic characteristics

Iceland belongs to European countries and is an island state. It is located in the north of the Atlantic Ocean, consists of a large island of the same name and numerous small islands. The capital of the state is Reykjavik. The total area of ​​Iceland is 103,000 square kilometers. The population is 332,500 people. locals actively migrate within the country and move from small settlements to the cities. Because of this, the villages are gradually emptying.

Nature

Volcanoes and geysers

Iceland is an island of volcanoes. There are about 200 of them, while about 30 are active. Features of the relief and tectonic structure of the earth are the reason for the presence of numerous hot springs and geysers in the country. A large number of them are concentrated within the national parks of Iceland.

The presence of such unique resources allowed the country's population to organize space heating with hot water from natural sources.

A large number of geysers and naturally formed warm outdoor baths have led to the presence of a specific smell of sulfur, which is felt almost everywhere...

Rivers and lakes

Iceland has a large number of rivers. Due to the limited area of ​​the island, their length is small. The relief of the country determined the presence of many rapids in the channels. The flow in them is swift and the rafting of even a small load along the rivers in boats is considered dangerous and impossible.

The food of the rivers is predominantly glacial. Spills and floods occur during the summer, when the frozen water thaws.

There are about 2,770 lakes in the country. They are quite large. In addition to natural reservoirs, there are temporary and artificially created ones. Their filling also depends on the melting of glaciers...

Seas around Iceland

The relatively small island of Iceland is washed by the waters of two oceans and two seas at once: the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, as well as the Greenland and Norwegian Seas. Separates Iceland from Greenland Danish Strait, 280 km wide. The coastline of Iceland, like many northern countries, is indented by fjords.

The waters along most coasts are ice-free throughout the year. The only exceptions are the northern and eastern coastal zones, where drifting Arctic ice is brought by the current...

Plants and animals

The isolated location and proximity of the Arctic have influenced the flora and fauna of Iceland. There are few plant species here. These are low grasses, flowers, mushrooms, lichens and algae. Forests, which were mentioned in the 4th century, have not survived to our time. The modern natural area of ​​Iceland is more like a tundra. There are artificial forest plantations, but they do not grow quickly.

Among the animals, only birds can be noted, for example, the Atlantic puffin. Reptiles and amphibians are not found on the island. Among warm-blooded animals one can meet sheep and cattle...

Climate of Iceland

Despite its northern location, Iceland has a relatively mild climate. The island is influenced by the warm North Atlantic Current and the cold Greenland Current. The warmest month of the year is August. The air temperature during this period warms up to 20 degrees Celsius. Winter is quite mild and stays within 2 degrees with a minus sign.

Despite the northern location, there is no polar night in the country. You can observe such a phenomenon as white nights. There is quite a lot of precipitation in Iceland, but they are unevenly distributed over the territory. Snow and rain are characteristic of the southern coast and the mountain slopes located here ...

Resources

Natural resources

Isolated for a long time from other countries and peoples, the inhabitants of Iceland were engaged exclusively in the extraction and processing of fish. Waters rich in this resource allow further development of this industry.

Mineral reserves in island Iceland are small. These are brown coal, spar and pumice. Seafood is among the natural resources. A large number of geothermal sources, in addition to the development of the tourism sector, allows you to actively engage in greenhouse farming. In limited conditions, whaling is carried out ...

Industry and agriculture

Iceland belongs to economically developed countries. In 2007, it was recognized as the best place to live among all the countries of the world. The main occupation of the local population is the service sector, in particular: tourism, information Technology and the financial sector.

The country's industry is represented by aluminum smelters, which began to be built not so long ago, according to the new course of the government.

Various biotechnologies are also actively developing, geothermal sources are rationally used. There are hydroelectric power plants to provide electricity to settlements.

Today agriculture is developed in the country. Land resources allow growing fodder plants and actively breeding cows and sheep, which are a source of dairy products, meat and wool...

culture

Icelandic people

Most of the Icelandic population is Lutheran. official language communication is Icelandic. rich cultural heritage is a source of pride for the local population. In the folded ancient legends, the history of the people and their basic foundations are clearly reflected.

Outwardly, the Icelanders give the impression of a very reserved people. In practice, they are diligent and attentive to almost every guest. The government's program is aimed at cultivating among the citizens of the state tolerance and tolerance for foreign faith...

The island state of Iceland, despite its belonging to European countries, the majority of the population protests against joining the EU. The inhabitants of the country are worried about the preservation of their own foundations and habitual crafts.

Geographical position

Iceland is an island nation located in the North Atlantic Ocean, near the Arctic Circle. The country lies between Norway and Greenland. Almost the entire territory of the country is a volcanic plateau with peaks up to 2 km., Which abruptly break off to the ocean and form a huge number of fjords.
There are many active volcanoes in Iceland: Hekla, Askja, Laki, etc. There are also geysers, hot springs, glaciers and lava fields that cover almost the entire territory of the island.
The total area of ​​the country is about 103 thousand square meters. km., of which 11.8 thousand square meters. km. covered with glaciers.
The capital of the country is the city of Reykjavik.

Iceland is the second largest island in Europe. In the north, the country is washed by the Greenland Sea, in the east - by the Norwegian Sea. To the west, the Denmark Strait separates Iceland from Greenland. The northernmost point of the country is located on the Arctic Circle. The length of the island from north to south is 306 km, from west to east - 480 km. In summer there are white nights, and in December the sun appears only for 3-4 hours.

The highest point in the country is Hvannadalshnukur, its height is 2119 meters above sea level.

The total area of ​​glaciers is 11.8 thousand square meters. km. The largest sheet glacier is Vatnajökull, which is located in the southeast of the island.

There are many rivers in Iceland, but they are not navigable. The longest of them are: Tjörsar, Jokulsa a Fjodlüm, Yolvyusaa and Skjalvandafljot. Most large lakes countries - Thingvadlavatn and Tourisvatn.

Iceland is located in the zone of a moderately cold maritime climate, which in the north turns into a subpolar one. Although this country is considered Arctic, the climate here is not so cold, because. it is softened by the warm current of the Gulf Stream.
Winters here are relatively warm - 0-5C, and summers are cool (9-12C). The annual rainfall is 300 mm in the north, up to 2000 mm in the south. On the slopes of Vatnajokull and Mýrdalsjokull, which are open to the south, the average annual rainfall is over 3800 mm.
Strong winds blow over the country all year round.
Medium annual temperature on the southwest coast in Reykjavik is 4 ° C. average temperature January -1 ° C, July 11 ° C. On the northern coast in Akureyri, the average annual temperature is 3 ° C. The average January temperature here is -2 ° C and 11 ° C.
Coastal waters are ice-free throughout the year. The weather in Iceland is highly variable throughout the day. This is due to the passage of cyclones in eastbound across the Atlantic Ocean.
It happens that even at the end of May there is still snow, and in December long thaws can often occur.

Visas, entry rules, customs regulations

Citizens of the Russian Federation to visit Iceland require a Schengen visa. You can apply for a visa to Iceland at the consular section of the Danish Embassy, ​​located in Moscow.
For minor child traveling with one of the parents, other relatives or accompanying persons, you need permission to leave from the second parent.
Single women who travel with children are required to provide a photocopy of the single mother's certificate or the original certificate from the police confirming that relations with the father of the child are not maintained and his whereabouts are unknown. Widows (widowers) must provide a copy of the death certificate of their spouse.
Import and export of foreign currency is not limited. The import and export of local currency is limited to 8,000 ISK. It is allowed to import duty-free a small amount of alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, meat products (only from EU countries), personal items and products, including photo and video equipment. Strong spirits can only be imported by persons over the age of 20, wine and tobacco products - by persons over 18 years of age.
It is forbidden to import into Iceland weapons, drugs, some medicines (without the appropriate permits from the customs authorities), fresh vegetables and dairy products. It is allowed to import medicines for personal use if they have a certificate or prescription from the attending physician.

Population, political condition

The population of the country is 276 thousand people. The national composition is homogeneous - about 99% of the total population are Icelanders. Persons also residing in Iceland foreign origin- Danes, Germans and Norwegians. Over 70% of the population lives in cities. The largest cities in the country are: Reykjavik, Kopavogur, Akureyri.
Almost 4/5 of the country's territory is uninhabited, most of the population is concentrated on a narrow coast, in the valleys and lowlands of the south and southwest.
Iceland is a republic with a presidential form of government. Executive power is concentrated in the hands of the president and the government. The President of the country is elected for a term of 4 years. Legislative power is vested in the president and a unicameral parliament, the Althingi. The parliament has 63 deputies who are elected for 4 years. The minister-president is approved by the president following the results of parliamentary elections and after consultations with the leaders of the party factions in Althing.
The administrative-territorial division of the country is 23 districts (sisla), which include 124 rural communities and cities.
The official language is Icelandic, which is very carefully preserved in the country. But almost everywhere they speak English.

What to see

The main attraction of this country is its unique nature. Volcanic landscapes, geysers, waterfalls, glaciers and lakes look very picturesque.
Reykjavik ("Smoky Bay") is the country's capital and largest city. It has a small size and is distinguished by comfort and a quiet life. This city is also the northernmost capital in the world. It is surrounded by the sea on three sides. The architecture of Reykjavik is not typical for capital cities, therefore it is considered one of the most unusual cities in the world. The center of the capital, its old part, looks like a vast green expanse of lawns and lakes. Here you can see traditional old houses, in which the influence of early Scandinavian architecture is noticeable.
Sheepfolds and stables are still attached to some residential buildings. But they are no longer used for keeping livestock, but converted into shops and cafes.
It is worth noting the Parliament House and the old Government Building (XVIII century), which are located between the harbor and the lake.
The capital itself stands on the spot where the Vikings of Ingolfur Arnarson built the first permanent settlement on the island. This happened in 874. There are no industrial facilities and even a thermal power plant in the city. Water from hot thermal springs is used to heat the city. Therefore, the ecological situation in Reykjavik is simply magnificent, the air is very clean.
The modern part of the city stretches to the east of the old city. Here the attention of tourists deserves: the National Gallery of Iceland, the Reykjavik City Art Museum, the National Museum, which has a unique historical collection.
Immediately behind the National Museum is the Arnie Magnusson Institute. It contains unique ancient books with traditional saga legends, as well as many historical works.
The Arbair Folk Museum is interesting for the old houses of the capital, which have been reconstructed. Here you can see a church in a traditional Icelandic style, its roof is covered with turf, as well as farmhouses of the 19th and early 20th centuries. central church Reykjavik - Hallgrimskirkja, is one of the main attractions of the city. It is interesting for its original architecture and unique art nouveau organ. In front of the church is a monument to the Vikings - the discoverers of America. It is worth visiting the small Botanical Garden, a recreation park. There are a number of museums in the capital dedicated to the most famous artists countries.
The capital has many pools, some of which are open. The water temperature in them reaches +27 C. Reykjavik also has many discos, nightclubs, drama, opera and ballet theaters and cinemas. A picturesque green area stretches along the banks of the Ellidaar River. This river flows through the eastern part of the city and is one of the richest rivers in the country, salmon live in it.
Not far from the city is the extinct volcano Esya, whose height is 906 meters. It is a very popular place for trekking and outdoor activities. Further south is the large Blaulown Lake or Glacier Lagoon. It is connected to the ocean by a strait. Here you can see unique stone-mossland wastelands with relict vegetation and giant glaciers.
100 km. east of the capital, at the foot of the Laungjokull glacier, you can visit the unique valley of geysers - Haukadalur. It houses the famous Big Geyser. Its three-meter crater either fills with hot water or dries up. The water in the crater is highly mineralized and has a turquoise color.
Many tourists come here to see steam eruptions that last ten minutes and rise to a height of 40-60 meters. But lately, the geyser has been erupting less and less frequently. Dozens of other geysers are located around it.
The Hengil area, located near Reykjavik, also deserves the attention of tourists. His hot water now used to heat the capital and a large number of outdoor pools. In the valley to the east of the geyser fields, you can see the place where Icelandic statehood was formed. The fields of Thing, described in the Thingvollir sagas, are famous for the fact that they held meetings of the first settlers of the country.
Geyser fields attract a huge number of tourists here. There are more than 250 groups of them here, which include more than 7 thousand separate hot springs. Here it is the largest number geysers per unit area in the world.
In the south of the country lies the vast geyser field of Haudakalur. Here is the Geyser (Great Geyser), which was once considered the largest geyser in Iceland. However, only the Strokkur geyser erupts regularly here. Around it there are a large number of underground hot water outlets. These exits look like bottomless wells, which are filled to the brim with blue transparent water.
It is worth visiting the areas of the Torfa Glacier, which lie to the east of the Hekla volcano. The Kverkfjöll volcano, the regions of Nama, the Kerlingar and Kverk mountains, the region of the Grim lakes near the Vatna glacier, the Chrisu Bay, the geothermal fields of Kölur, Landmannalöygar, Nesyavellir, Onavfelsnes, Reykir also deserve the attention of tourists. Near the town of Hveragerdi you can see hot springs and fields of "colorful earth".
Some springs spew water, the temperature of which reaches about +750 C. The largest hot spring in the country is Deildartunguhver. It produces more than 150 liters of boiling water every second. This water is used to heat homes, create hot water pools and evaporate salt from sea water.
Iceland's famous landmark is the Blue Lagoon. It is a unique geothermal lake, the water of which is saturated with natural salts. You can swim in this lake at any time of the year, because. the temperature of the water in it does not fall below +16 C. Its water is used to treat a number of diseases, especially skin diseases.
In the vicinity of the lagoon, you can visit lava fields, a rocky coast, a bird market and a geothermal power plant with a swimming pool. To the east of the Blue Lagoon lies the lava-covered peninsula of Reykjanes. You can stop by the fishing village of Grindavik. The Reykholt settlement is also worth a visit. Snorri Sturluson, a famous Icelandic poet, writer and politician, lived here for a long time. He is the author of the famous history of the Norwegian kings - "The Circle of the Earth".
Icelandic waterfalls are also very beautiful. The most famous of them are: the "waterfall of the gods" Goudafoss, Gullfoss ("golden waterfall"), located on the Hvitau River, near the Big Geyser, Skogarfoss and the "falling waterfall" Dehtifoss in the north of the country.
The highest is Hauifoss, which is located on the Fossad River. Its height is 130 meters. And the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland are Hrøynfossar ("lava waterfalls"). They are located near Reykholt and were so named because they flow in cascades from under the lava field. The water from them flows into the river of amazing blue color.
The interior of the island is a lifeless plateau. It is very quiet and calm here, you can observe the life of the relic natural world of the country. In Icelandic legends, each of these areas is given magical properties.
In the east of Iceland, in the East Borgarfjord, the rock Aulvaborg is located. According to Icelandic tales, Icelandic elves live here.
The Kerlingaskar Pass ("witch's gorge") lies at the western foot of the Kerlingarfjell mountain. It is believed that evil forces live here, and an analogue of the Loch Ness monster lives in the local lake.
Akureyri is the northern capital of the country. It lies on the banks of the picturesque Eyjafjord. Nearby is the ice-free lake Myvatn ("mosquito lake"). It is one of the richest fish lakes in the northern hemisphere and is considered one of the wonders of the world.
Gullfoss waterfall is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland. Here you can climb the craters of the Graubok and Hverfell volcanoes, visit the Kverkfjöll and Nömaskaro ice caves.
From Akureyri, you can take a ferry to the "island near the Arctic Circle" Grimsey, which is considered one of the most "extreme" places inhabited by man. This island is famous for its wild landscapes.
One of the main attractions of Iceland is its volcanoes. Iceland ranks first in the world in terms of the number of volcanoes per unit area. Their peaks are visible from almost all points of the country. The most famous volcanoes are: "Iceland's Fujiyama" Hekla, Helgafell, colorful Kverkfjöll, Graubok and the "creator of the islands" Surtsey.
The country has excellent conditions for sport fishing and extreme tourism. Fans of rock climbing, hiking, horse riding, trout and salmon fishing, etc. come here.

On the territory of the country, coins of the Roman Empire were found, which date back to the 3rd century AD. It is impossible to say for sure whether they were brought by the Vikings, or whether the island was still visited long before the 9th century.
There are numerous references to "Thule" or "Far Thule" in Roman literature from the 4th century BC. This place in its natural and geographical description strongly resembles Iceland.
Iceland was settled in the 9th century as a result of the unification of Norway under the rule of King Harald I. Many families who did not like the new power fled in search of a new place to live. In Iceland, they first settled only on the coast. The sea served as a source of food and wood (fin), because. There were practically no forests on the island.
The first settler in Iceland is the noble Norwegian Ingolf Arnarson, who in 874 settled in the area of ​​modern Reykjavik.
Gradually, a state system was formed in the country. In each region, a ting was created to resolve disputes, issues, and to carry out the court. At the beginning of summer, representatives of the regions gathered for the Althing. The laws of those times were very confusing, with many exceptions.
The first Althing was convened in 930. From this date, the era of democracy is counted. Icelandic democracy is considered to be the oldest democracy in existence today in the world.
The history of the country is well known due to the large number of sagas that have come down to us.
The ancient Icelanders were skilled sailors and Vikings. The literacy rate among them was very high. In Iceland, the texts of the Elder (poetic) and Younger (prose) Edda were discovered, thanks to which Scandinavian mythology has survived to this day.
In 1262, Iceland had to sign the so-called "Old Treaty" with Norway. She recognized the sovereignty of the Norwegian kings, who were supposed to support her economically.
In 1397, Iceland, together with Norway, came under the rule of Denmark by the Kalmar Union.
In 1814 this union was dissolved. However, Iceland remained part of Denmark.
In 1830, ideas of Icelandic nationalism were born among Icelandic students in Copenhagen. The leader of this movement was the philologist Jon Sigurdson.
In 1845, the country's parliament was recreated as a legislative body. It was called "althing".
The convened constituent assembly in 1851 was dissolved by the authorities due to too radical demands. However, already in 1854, the Danish trade monopoly was completely abolished in Iceland.
In 1855, a law on freedom of the press was introduced in the country.
In 1874, the millennium of the settlement of Iceland was celebrated. Then for the first time in history, the Danish king Christian IX visited the island. He announced further reforms. The king granted Iceland its own constitution, according to which the Althing received the rights of a local legislature. Citizens of the country elected 30 deputies to its composition. The king also appointed 6 more deputies.
Executive power remained in the hands of the governor, who was appointed by the Danish government. He was subordinate to the Danish Ministry of Justice. Iceland also has its own cabinet minister. He was a Dane, lived permanently in Copenhagen and was responsible to the Danish Parliament.
In the last decades of the 19th century, the first signs of modernization in the economy and social structure began to appear in the country. Market relations began to develop, the first large farms and fishing enterprises appeared in Iceland. Since 1882, marketing and commercial cooperation began to spread.
In 1885, the National Bank of Iceland was established in Iceland.
On December 1, 1918, Iceland was declared an independent kingdom in personal union with Denmark.
During World War II, Denmark was occupied by the Germans. This contributed to the separation of Denmark and Iceland on April 9, 1940.
A month later, the British entered Reykjavík harbor, violating Iceland's neutrality. During the war, the allied occupation of Iceland lasted.
In 1941, responsibility for the occupation was taken over by the American army.
On June 17, 1944, Iceland gained full independence and became a republic. June 17 has been a public holiday in Iceland ever since.
On March 30, 1949, Iceland joined NATO. After the war, the country experienced significant economic growth. This was facilitated by the Marshall Plan, the industrialization of the fishing industry and Keynesian government management of the economy.
In the 1970s, the "cod war" unfolded. It was a diplomatic dispute with Britain over the expansion of Iceland's fishing grounds.
In 1994, the country joined the European Economic Area.
In October 2008, the banking system collapsed in Iceland. The country nearly went bankrupt. It developed a serious financial crisis. There was an increase in inflation and unemployment, a fall in GDP and the rate of the Icelandic krone. The economic situation has worsened.
Iceland legalized same-sex marriage in 2010.
On November 27, 2010, elections to the Constituent Assembly were held in Iceland.

International trade

long time for foreign trade The country was characterized by a negative balance. This was due to the limited natural resources and the weak development of the production of consumer goods.
The main imports are oil products and motor vehicles.

Other important imports are textiles, ships, paper, ready-to-wear, wares chemical industry and metal products.
The main export items are: fish and fish products.
Traditionally, Iceland's main trading partners have been the USA, the USSR, Great Britain and Germany. In 1970, the country joined the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). But Iceland's economic interests are at odds with the European Union's policy of creating a common fishery. Her Government therefore refrained from participating in that organization.

The shops

In Iceland, you can buy good clothes, especially outerwear. Locals know a lot about practical and beautiful clothes.
As a souvenir, you can also bring national Icelandic clothes with you, which is a knitted wool sweater with a traditional pattern.
And the clothes of famous world brands are somewhat cheaper in the country than on the continent. There is also a fairly large number of their own designers who create unique clothes and accessories.
In Iceland, you can buy very original jewelry made of polished lava or deer antler.
There are quite a lot of talented writers, musicians, actors and directors in Iceland. But you can get acquainted with their work mainly only in their homeland.
Some types of Icelandic cooked meat or fish can be great treats.
Shops of the country are usually open from 10.00 to 18.00 from Monday to Friday, on Saturdays - from 10.00 to 14.00-16.00. Some large department stores are open until 22.00 on Fridays. On Sunday, and in the summer - and on Saturdays, all shops are closed.
Iceland is considered quite an expensive country for tourists.

Demography

The population density in the country is the smallest in Europe, it averages 2.7 inhabitants per 1 sq. km. km.
The average age of the population is 35.1 years. The average age of men is 34.6 years, women - 35.6 years.
Age composition of the population:
under 15 years old - 20.7%
15-64 years old - 67.1%
over 65 years old - 12.2%.
The annual population growth is 0.741%. The birth rate is 13.5 per 1000; mortality rate - 6.81 per 1000; infant mortality - 3.4 per 1000.
The average life expectancy is 80.67 years. The average life expectancy for men is 78.53 years, for women - 82.9 years.
Fertility rate - 1.9 (average European - 1.5).

Industry

There is almost no mining industry in Iceland. Only on a small scale is the development of deposits of brown coal, pumice and Icelandic spar. The country's industry began to develop rapidly only after the Second World War. Today, it employs about a third of the population.
Now the main industry is fish processing. There are large herring processing enterprises in Siglufjordur, Akureyri and other cities. In Reykjavik, Hafnarfjordur, Vestmannaeyjar and other cities, there are about 100 fillets and fresh-frozen fish factories.
The country has many shipyards and ship repair companies that serve the fishing fleet. Iceland also produces ready-to-wear, furniture and Construction Materials, shoes, metal products and electrical equipment. Factory near Reykjavik mineral fertilizers. There is a cement factory in Akranes.

Flora and fauna

Currently, there is very little vegetation in Iceland. Only less than 1/4 of its territory is covered with vegetation.
There is almost no vegetation cover on the vast inland plateaus. Mosses and grasses are predominant in the composition of vegetation. Until recently, trees accounted for only about 1% of the total area. The most common tree species in Iceland are birches, whose trunks are usually twisted due to strong winds. In recent years, large plantations of conifers have been established in some places.
Animal world Iceland is no different. During the settlement of its territory, the only living there land mammals was a fox. At the end of the 18th century, the country was bred reindeer. By chance, mice, rats and mink were brought to Iceland.
About 80 species of birds nest on the territory of the country. A large number of ducks, swans and geese live on mountain lakes and rivers. On sea ​​coast common gulls, terns, etc.
Trout lives in lakes, and salmon lives in rivers. Two species of seals and some species of whales live in coastal waters. There are places for feeding and spawning of a large number of fish species. Highest value have sea bass, cod, halibut, haddock, and shrimp.

Banks and money

Icelandic banknotes / Currency converter

The country's monetary unit is the Icelandic krone (international designation - ISK, within the country - IKg), which is equal to 100 aurars. In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 5000, 1000, 500 and 100 crowns, coins of 50, 10, 5 and 1 crown, as well as 50 and 10 aurars.
Tourists can exchange currency at banks, The Change Group offices and hotels. The commission is about $2.5 regardless of the amount.
Traveler's checks are accepted everywhere. Credit cards are very popular. Non-cash payments in the domestic turnover make up the vast majority. Credit cards of the world's leading payment systems are accepted for payment everywhere.
ATMs are available in all banks, large stores, hotels and on most central streets. They work with all types of credit cards.
Banks in Iceland are usually open from Monday to Friday from 9.15 to 16.00.

To rent a car, you must be over 18 years old or have a driving experience of more than 2 years. An international credit card is also required. Valid Russian law new sample. The country has offices of large international rental companies, as well as small private companies.
Fines for traffic violations are quite high. Speed ​​limits: 50 km/h in the city, 80 km/h on a gravel road, 90 km/h on an asphalt road.
Parking in the capital is quite simple - there are multi-level parking lots and surface parking lots. There are not so many cars in the city, so it is usually not difficult to find a parking space.
Payment for parking is hourly, you can pay through special machines at the entrance or through a parking employee.
Reykjavik has an extensive modern network of bus routes. You can also take the bus to the suburbs. Tickets are cheaper to buy at the box office of bus terminals. For a trip with transfers, you need to purchase a transit ticket.
To travel along the ring highway, which encircles the entire island, you need to buy a special subscription.
You can use taxi services. You can order a taxi by phone (free of charge), at specialized parking lots, or simply stop on the street.
The coastal shipping company is mainly used only for the transportation of goods. Intensive passenger traffic is carried out on the lines between Reykjavik and Arkanes, as well as the islands of the south coast and the northern ports of Chrissi and Grimsey. Thus, the harvest of wheat over the past 20 years has increased by more than 20 times.
In Iceland, there are about 6 thousand farms, of which approximately 80% are owned by private individuals. Sheep breeding has always been the main branch of animal husbandry.
Lamb is the traditional meat food of the local population.
Many other species of animals are also kept on farms - goats, pigs, minks, black-brown foxes. There is a large number of horses of the local breed - Icelandic ponies. They are widely used for equestrian tourism.
The most important farm product is hay. Iceland also grows turnips, potatoes, cabbages and other vegetables. Greenhouse farms are widespread.
In greenhouses, mainly tomatoes and cucumbers, vegetables, flowers, bananas and grapes are grown.
The state supports agriculture.
Fishing and fish processing play an important role in the Icelandic economy.

Economic- geographical position ICELAND IS NEAR BOTH EUROPE AND THE USA AND CANADA. WHICH ALLOWS AN ACTIVE FOREIGN TRADE BY SEA ROUTES. THE ECONOMY IS BASED ON THE FISHING INDUSTRY. ICELAND IS RICH IN GEOTHERMAL ENERGY SOURCES, THE USE OF WHICH IS PROFITABLE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY PROFITABLE. CHEAP GEOTHERMAL ENERGY ATTRACTS INVESTORS TO INVEST IN ENERGY-INTENSIVE INDUSTRY. SO, ICELAND'S MAIN PLANT IS ALUMINUM PLANT WORKING ON IMPORTED RAW MATERIALS. ICELAND IS NOT RICH IN MINERALS. THE ENOUGH Severe Climate Doesn't Contribute to the Active Development of Agriculture, HOWEVER, ICELAND PROVIDES ITS DOMESTIC MARKET WITH AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS.

National symbols of Iceland Lofsöngur is the national anthem of Iceland, written in 1874. The author of the words is Mattias Johumsson, the composer is Sveinbjornsson. The coat of arms of Iceland (Isl. Skjaldarmerki Íslands) is one of the main state symbols of the country. It is an azure shield with a silver Latin cross burdened with a scarlet Latin cross. The shield is supported by four guardian spirits (Isl. Landvættir) of Iceland, standing on a slab of columnar basalt: a bull (Isl. Griðungur) - the patron of Southwestern Iceland, a giant (Isl. Bergrisi) - Southeast, a vulture (Isl. Gammur) - Northwestern and dragon (Isl. Dreki) - Northeastern. In its modern form, it was adopted in 1944, after the proclamation of Iceland as a republic. The flag of Iceland (Isl. Íslenski fáninn) was officially approved by the "Law on the national flag of the Icelanders and the state emblem" No. 34 of June 17, 1944, on the day when Iceland became an independent republic . The colors of the flag are associated with the Icelandic landscape: red is the color of fire from Icelandic volcanoes, white is the color of ice and snow, and blue is the color of the waters of the Atlantic Ocean surrounding the island.

The head of state of Iceland is the President, elected for a term of 4 years. The position has been held by Ölavur Ragnar Grimsson since August 1, 1996 Administrative division of Iceland - the division of Iceland into regions. In Iceland, there are several systems of territorial division of the country: 1) into 6 electoral districts (Isl. kjördæmi) 2) into 8 statistical regions (Isl. landsvæði / héruð) 3) into 23 traditional districts (Isl. sýsla, sýslur, sisla) and in there are 24 administratively independent cities (Isl. kaupstaðir) 4) into 76 communities, or municipalities (Isl. sveitarfélög) Local governments are formed by communities, and bodies government controlled, as a rule, carry out their functions in the territory of traditional districts.

The capital of Iceland is Reykjavik The currency is the Icelandic krone The population of Iceland is 321,857 people. (as of January 1, 2013), of which 16% are employed in agriculture, 21% - in fishing, 18% - in industry and crafts, 25% - in trade and transport, 10% - others. The national composition is homogeneous: 98.99% are Icelanders - descendants of the Vikings who speak Icelandic. Danes, Swedes, Norwegians and Poles also live in the country (under an agreement on the construction of sulfur mining and aluminum production plants until 2015 with Poland and Germany). The average population density is 3.12 people. per 1 km². About 60% of the inhabitants are concentrated in the southwestern part of the country (Reykjavik and its environs).

Industry Ready-made clothes, shoes, metal products, electrical equipment, furniture and building materials are produced. There is a mineral fertilizer factory (near Reykjavik), a cement plant (in Akranes). Since 1979, the production of ferro-silicon (an alloy of iron and silicon) has been established. Iceland has large reserves of hydropower. Potential hydropower generation is estimated at 80 billion kWh per year. Currently, only 6% of hydropower resources are used. In addition, there is a huge potential for geothermal energy, which is widely used in domestic and greenhouse facilities. Over half of Iceland's energy needs were met by oil imports. Previously, oil came from the USSR, now mainly from the UK and Norway. Of the total reserves of technologically available resources, only 70% is expedient to exploit for financial reasons. Energy production in 2004 was 5 billion kW, of which hydroelectricity accounted for 95%.

Agriculture in Iceland In Iceland, all the land that can be used for agricultural purposes is cultivated, which occupies only 1% of the country's territory. At the same time, only 5% of the population is employed in agriculture, and gross output Agriculture is only 1.4% of GDP (2005). At the same time, it cannot be said that Icelandic agriculture is a backward industry. In 2006, there were about 4,500 farms in the country, of which approximately 80% were privately owned. In 2008, there were over 130,000 head of large cattle, about 460,000 sheep (almost double the country's population), 75,000 horses (see Icelandic horse), about 500 goats, more than 4,000 pigs and about 200,000 chickens. In recent years, areas of agriculture have begun to develop that were not traditional for this country. Thus, over the past 20 years, the wheat harvest has increased by more than 20 times, amounting to 11,000 tons. Fishing and fish processing. This industry provides employment for 12% of the population and 70% of the country's export earnings. The main fishery objects are cod (in the waters off the southwestern coast from January to May), herring (off the northern coast from June to September), etc. Due to the decrease in herring and cod catches and the reduction of fish resources in the North Atlantic in recent years the importance of capelin and saithe increased.

Vegetable world Currently, there is very little vegetation in Iceland. Only less than 1/4 of its territory is covered with vegetation.

There is almost no vegetation cover on the vast inland plateaus. Mosses and grasses are predominant in the composition of vegetation. Until recently, trees accounted for only about 1% of the total area. The most common tree species in Iceland are birches, whose trunks are usually twisted due to strong winds. In recent years, large plantations of conifers have been established in some places.

The fauna of Iceland is not very diverse. During the settlement of its territory, the only terrestrial mammal living there was the arctic fox. At the end of the 18th century, reindeer were bred in the country. By chance, mice, rats and mink were brought to Iceland.

About 80 species of birds nest on the territory of the country. A large number of ducks, swans and geese live on mountain lakes and rivers. Gulls, terns, etc. are common on the sea coast. Trout lives in lakes, and salmon lives in rivers. Two species of seals and some species of whales live in coastal waters. There are places for feeding and spawning of a large number of fish species. Sea bass, cod, halibut, haddock, and shrimp are of the greatest importance.

Foreign economic relations In 1946, Iceland joined the UN and became a founding member of the OSCE, the Council of Europe, NATO and several international organizations, which are members of the UN, including the International Monetary Fund, Association International Development, World Organization Health and Food and Agriculture Organization. Iceland later joined the International Tariff and Trade Agreement, UNESCO and, in 1970, the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). In 1994, the Treaty on the European Economic Area (EEA) came into force, giving Iceland full access to the internal market of the European Union (EU). In 1995, Iceland became a founding member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Iceland's foreign economic relations with Russia were facilitated by the visit of an Icelandic government delegation to Russia in March 2000 headed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Haldor Ausgrimsson and the documents signed during the negotiations. Draft agreements on joint incentives and mutual protection of investments, elimination of double taxation, development of trade in conditions of maximum mutual favor were approved. Long-term cooperation projects between Iceland and the Murmansk, Leningrad, and Kaliningrad regions have been agreed upon, and not only in the extraction and processing of seafood.

Landmarks of Iceland Thingvellir National Park One of the oldest national parks in Europe, located just 50 kilometers from Reykjavik. Until 1781, meetings of the local parliament were held here and laws were announced. Thingvellir Park is also famous for its lakes, a lot of rare plants, unusual Icelandic horses and geological formations.

Waterfall Gullfoss Very beautiful, really "golden" waterfall, which is located in the southern part of Iceland. A powerful stream of water falls into a narrow crevice to a depth of about 70 meters. The Gullfoss waterfall consists of two steps, it looks especially beautiful after rains and floods. One of the most beautiful and popular attractions in the country.

Husavik This small town in the northern part of Iceland attracts tourists primarily with a unique opportunity to see whales. There is a museum entirely dedicated to the largest animals on the planet, and boat trips are organized. There is a volcanically active region near Husavik, which is also often visited by tourists.

Hallgrimskirkja The most important church in Iceland and one of the tallest buildings in the country with excellent observation deck, which, like Hallgrimskirkja herself, works every day until half past eight in the evening. From the platform you can see the whole of Reykjavik and the surrounding hills. A feature of this Lutheran cathedral is a huge organ 15 meters high.

Dettifoss waterfall Is it interesting to see the most powerful waterfall in Europe? Head to the northeastern part of Iceland, where the Dettifoss waterfall is located on the river Jökulsau au Fjödlum. Its incredibly powerful jets fall from a height of 44 meters, and the width of the waterfall itself exceeds 100 meters. The beauty of this waterfall was appreciated by composers and directors.

"Ice country" Iceland is located on north atlantic ocean.

On detailed map Iceland is shown that the state consists of the island of the same name with an area of ​​103 sq. km. and a number of small islands.

The main feature of the country is its nature and volcanic origin. Bizarre landscapes, fjords, waterfalls and glaciers make an indelible impression on travelers.

Iceland on the world map: geography, nature and climate

Iceland is in Northern Europe, northwest of the UK. To the west is the island of Greenland. It is separated from Iceland by the Denmark Strait. In the east, the country borders on Norway and is washed by the Norwegian Sea. Length coastline- about 5 thousand km.

The physical map of Iceland in Russian shows the relief, hydrography, reserves, minerals located on the territory of the state.

The island is located on the crest of the North Atlantic tectonic seam and consists of lava layers. Due to the divergence of plates, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. The most famous Hekla volcanoes And Lucky.

Relief

The relief of the country is a volcanic plateau with rocky shores and thousands of narrow bays. The central part of Iceland is occupied by active volcanoes, geysers, lava fields, so it is not very suitable for habitation. Life has focused on coastal areas.

Iceland got its name not by chance: 1/10 of the island is covered with glaciers. largest Vatnajökull glacier has an area of ​​8300 sq. km. It is located in the southeast of the island. Its integrity is violated by the presence of eight active and "sleeping" volcanoes.

Volcanic activity provoked the appearance of many thermal springs in Iceland. Great Geysir of them the most famous.

Hydrography

The rivers and lakes of Iceland are fed by snow and glacier waters. Navigation on the rivers is impossible due to the large number of waterfalls and rapids. The largest river Tjoursau originates from the Hofsjokull glacier, its length is 230 km.

Tourisvatn Lake is located in the south of the island. This is the largest reservoir in Iceland: its area is 88 sq. km, depth - 109 m.

The country of contrasts, Iceland, occupies a small area on the world map, and it's amazing how many natural attractions fit in it.

Climate

The island is under the constant action of cyclones. warm waters The Gulf Stream influences the climate. In summer, the temperature on the coast is about 20 0 C, in winter, despite the proximity to the North Pole, it rarely drops below zero. The central part is distinguished continental climate: in winter the temperature drops to -20 0 C, and in summer it rarely rises above +20 0 C.

Flora and fauna

Vegetation in Iceland is sparse: most of the territory is devoid of vegetation. Moss and grass cover the soil. Trees occupy only 1% of the area: birches and conifers are the main tree species. Mammals in the nature of the island are represented by only one animal - the arctic fox. The most common bird is the Atlantic puffin.

Map of Iceland with cities. Administrative division of the country

There are different systems of territorial division in the republic. Iceland is divided:

• for six constituencies for parliamentary elections;
• into eight statistical regions:
  1. Westfirder;
  2. Nordurland-Vastra;
  3. Westurland;
  4. Nordurland-Eistra;
  5. Sudurland;
  6. Eysturland;
  7. Sudyrnes;
  8. Hövydborgarsvaidid;
• into 23 districts (sysls) and 14 city districts;
• into 75 self-governing communities.

Sisly And urban districts are part of the regions and are divided into cities and communities. Sisly do not have self-government bodies.

In the capitals of urban districts, a civil government and a civil council are in power.

City boards and councils are elected in cities. They represent the government: they are in charge of tax collection, police, civil registration. Communities represent the second level administrative division. They are responsible for education and transportation.

The idea of ​​​​administrative division will be supplemented by a map of Iceland with cities in Russian.

Reykjavik

The name of the city means "smoking bay". The capital is located on the Seltjadnarnes peninsula. The Edlidau River is waterway cities. It is not suitable for navigation, but it is quite suitable for fishing. It is the largest city and capital of Iceland.

In the administrative division system, it belongs to the Hövydborgarsvaidid region and has the status of a community. The population is 118,814 inhabitants.

Proximity to the Arctic Circle affects the length of daylight hours. In winter it lasts only 4 hours, and in summer white nights come. The climate is quite favorable: winters are mild, without frost, and summers are cool. In winter, the temperature rarely drops below 10 0 C, in summer it is at + 10 / + 13 0 C. The water in the bay never freezes.

Kopavogur

The second largest city in Iceland. Located south of Reykjavik and is a satellite city of the capital. It has the status of a community with a population of 33,045 people.

The climate is subarctic, but moderated by proximity warm currents. Summer is overcast, short, but not rainy. On a sunny day, the temperature can reach +23 0 C. There are no severe frosts in winter: the night temperature is kept at -5 0 C, the daytime temperature is +2 0 C.

hafnarfjordur

Hafnarfjordur is located 10 km from the capital. The city is located on the southwest coast. Population - 28 085 inhabitants. The city owes its name to the beautiful ice-free harbor in which the city is located. Literally translated, Hafnarfjordur means "fjord harbor".

In winter, the temperature is rarely below -10 0 С, in summer it stays at +10 0 С. weather conditions here the phenomenon is common, so snow in May does not surprise anyone. Nearby are volcanoes, geysers, lakes with warm water that attract tourists. There are small earthquakes.