Iceland is a country in Northern Europe, Europe with a rich history, unique culture and some remarkable records. Here are the most interesting facts about Iceland that most people don't know.
Iceland has no standing army and has never been at war since independence. It sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge — you can literally stand where two tectonic plates meet.
Iceland has no mosquitoes — the climate is too harsh for them to survive.
Iceland was the first country in the world to have a democratically elected female president (1980).
Iceland runs on nearly 100% renewable energy from geothermal and hydropower.
Iceland has no standing army and is one of the most peaceful countries in the world.
Iceland has no standing army and has never been at war since independence. It sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge — you can literally stand where two tectonic plates meet.
Iceland is known for several remarkable places that attract visitors and define the country's identity:
Ethereal curtains of aurora borealis above Iceland's ink-black winter skies
The original geyser that gave all geysers their name — erupting since the 13th century
Reykjavík's iconic concrete church, inspired by Iceland's basalt lava columns
A hauntingly beautiful lagoon of floating blue icebergs calved from Vatnajökull glacier
Iceland has no standing army and has never been at war since independence. It sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge — you can literally stand where two tectonic plates meet.
The capital of Iceland is Reykjavík.
Iceland has a population of approximately 376K.
The official language of Iceland is Icelandic.
Iceland gained independence in 1944.
Iceland uses the Króna (kr).