About Reykjavik
Reykjavik proudly bears its distinction as the world’s northernmost capital and is a vibrant, exciting and dynamic city. Its relaxed, open-minded and energetic culture makes it home to art impressive art and music scene, creating a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere that oozes from the city.
While winter-time in Reykjavik is renowned for its short days, it is far from a dark city. The sun never rises to a high point during the day, which creates a soft, warm glow that covers the city until the sun sets again. The late sunrise and early sunset also mean that there are more opportunities to view the Northern Lights. The lights can be seen in Iceland for almost eight months in the year, and Reykjavik is one of the most highly recommended places to see them.
A City of Culture
In 871 AD, the city was merely a small collection of farm buildings and remained this way until the 17th – century. Only when the economy began to develop did the city itself begin to thrive, as weaving, tanning and wool dying factories became solid foundations for the city’s financial security. During World War II, Reykjavik acted as a base for British and US troops. This rapidly increased the development of an already expanding city, as cultural diversity enhanced the society further.
Now, although it is only a small city, Reykjavik is extremely cosmopolitan and offers an array of striking architecture, a flourishing café and restaurant culture, lively nightlife and a number of charming art galleries. In particular, it presents an impressive contemporary art scene and is viewed as the main hub for much of Iceland’s art community.
Although the city is a metropolis in every sense of the word, it has been crafted around a number of parks and recreational areas, where nature is protected and carefully preserved – an urban homage to the incredible landscapes which can be found in the wilderness.
