Reykjavik is the northernmost capital of an independent nation; it is also the largest community in Iceland with a population of 200.000 people, about 60% of the country’s total population.
Archaeological remains dating from 871 confirm the Norse occupation of this area since early times, although it was only officially pronounced a city in the 18th century. The capital and its people are proud of their heritage and you will find many references to it all around Reykjavik.
The sea is one of the country's principal natural assets and another constant reference in local culture. Energetic needs are mainly fulfilled by hydropower and geothermal resources and there are plans to lower the country’s carbon footprint by giving up all fossil fuel dependence by 2050.
Icelanders deep love for nature reflects largely in their Capital, considered one of the greenest on the planet. The city counts with several parks, public gardens and tracking and jogging paths. In the summer all these areas fill up with locals and their families.
These are free of traffic areas, open to pedestrians and bicycles alike. Bicycles are a good way of navigating inside Reykjavik since the city is mostly flat and not very large.
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