The capital and largest city of the island nation of Iceland is Reykjavík. The name Reykjavík means “Bay of Smokes.” The city got its name because of the steaming-hot springs nearby. The town is heated by hot water piped from the hot springs. Reykjavík is located in southwestern Iceland. It lies along the southeastern corner of Faxa Bay, on the northern side of the Reykjanes Peninsula. It is cool throughout the year. The average temperature in Reykjavík is 31° F (-0.5° C) in January and 51° F (11° C) in July. Places of interestReykjavík's notable buildings include the Parliament House, a large Lutheran cathedral, the National Theater, and the National Museum. Bessastadhir, the residence of the president of Iceland, is outside the city. The National and University Library of Iceland, founded in 1818, and the University of Iceland, founded in 1911, are in the city. Reykjavík also has a navigation school. EconomyReykjavík is the center of Iceland's economy. It is a major fishing port and the site of nearly half the nation's industries. The city's manufactures include aluminum products and textiles. The processing of fish and other food products is also important. An international airport is at Keflavík, about 30 miles (50 kilometers) outside Reykjavík. Power plants on the Sog River, also outside the city, provide electricity. HistoryIt is said that the Viking Ingólfur Arnarson founded Reykjavík in 874 AD. Until Iceland became an independent nation, Reykjavík was a small fishing village largely inhabited by Danes. It was made the center for local government of the Danish-ruled island in 1786. Reykjavík has been the home of Iceland's parliament, the Althing, since 1845. When Iceland gained independence from Denmark in 1944, Reykjavík was made the capital. During World War II the city was a United States naval and air base. In 1986 arms-control talks between the United States and the former Soviet Union were held there. Population (1999 estimate), 109,152. |