Reykjavík: Iceland's Capital, World's Northernmost, Home to 2/3 of Population

Reykjavík is Iceland's capital and largest city.

📍 Key Facts:

• Population: ~140,000 (city), ~250,000 (Capital Region) – 64% of Iceland's 376,000.
• Latitude: 64°08′N – world's northernmost sovereign capital (Nuuk, Greenland is 64°10′N but not sovereign).
• Founded: ~874 CE by Ingólfr Arnarson (first permanent settler).
• Name: "Smoky Bay" (geothermal steam).

🏛️ Roles:

• Government: Althing (parliament), Prime Minister's Office, President's residence (Bessastaðir).
• Education: University of Iceland (largest).
• Economy: Finance, tourism, tech, fisheries, creative industries.
• Culture: Harpa Concert Hall, Hallgrímskirkja Church, museums, nightlife, festivals.

🌋 Unique Features:

• Geothermal heating (90%+ buildings).
• No skyscrapers (height limits).
• Midnight sun (summer), northern lights (winter).
• Gateway to Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, South Coast.

Reykjavík blends small-town intimacy with cosmopolitan vitality—clean, safe, creative, sustainable.