Overview Of Reykjavik

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Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the capital city in the country known as Iceland. Although smaller than most other national capitals, the city contains a population of approximately 118,488 according to UN statistics, making it the largest city in Iceland. It is located in the southwestern part of the Island on the southern shore of the bay of Faxafloi. It currently stands as the center of national trade, and political activities for the nation and boasts being among the safest, cleanest, and environmentally friendly cities in the world.
The history of the city goes all the way back to around 880 AD. Reykjavik is theorized to be the first permanent settlement on the island. It was first established by Ingolfur Arnarson from Norway. The steam that came up from the hot springs nearby are what inspired Arnarson to give the settlement the name Reykajvik. This can be transalated loosely to “Smoke Cove”. It was not until the 18th century, however, that Reykajvik began to be documented as an urban center rather than just clusters of farmland. During that time the Danish ruled Iceland and funded the concept of a domestic industry. This would eventually stimulate the progress and population of the island. Citizens of the city took up crafts in the wool, farming, fishing, sulphur mining, and shipbuilding industries. Free trade was given to all nationalities in the city and the Iceland became heavily influenced by the merchants. Being that Reykjavik was Iceland's only city it was also a melting pot of people and ideas. This variety of people lead to the idea of nationalism. In 1874 Iceland was given it's own constitution and it's own executive power. In the 20th century Reykjavik was hit hard by the Great depression, but later rebounded somewhat...

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...celandic heritage.
Culturally, Reykjavik is well known for it's famous nightlife. The residents tend to stay up late and go to the bars. Because alcohol is often extremely expensive in the city, those going out at night tend to first drink at home. There are over 100 different clubs in the city, the majority being located on Laugavegur street. Due to it's high number of gay and lesbian couples, Reykavik is often regarded as one of the most liberal cities in the country with several gay bars and festivals every year.
The city has several schools and universities. Some of the universities are The university of Iceland, Reykjavik University, and Iceland Academy of the Arts. There are also many sports teams and tourist attractions such as the parliament building, shopping centers, churches, concert halls, natural reserves, city hall, and archaeological excavations.

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