Iceland is the perfect country to escape crowds, switch off and immerse yourself in completely untouched nature. Watch the aurora borealis, watch beautiful sunsets on the fjords, walk on beaches of black volcanic ash or marvel at impressive waterfalls. All this is possible on a trip through Iceland. But what is actually hidden behind the island of fire and ice? We take you on a journey into the past of the Nordic country.
Early history
There is not a single country on our earth that has remained unsettled until the early historical times, despite its suitability for human life. Iceland's history begins only in 874 AD, when the settlement of the country began by the Vikings, who found their way from Norway through Ireland and Scotland.
The first settler to settle in Iceland for a longer period of time was Ingólfur Arnarson. He and his wife settled first in the southeast of the country and later in Reykjavík, today's capital.
At the beginning of its time, the country in the Atlantic was virtually part of a "Viking culture" that stretched from all of Scandinavia to western Canada. Originally, therefore, there was a pure immigrant culture, from which, however, quickly developed an independent people with individual characteristics and its own culture.
The golden age and end of independence
In 930, the Icelandic Parliament "Althings" was founded, which still exists today, making it the oldest existing parliament in the world.
Until the 13th century, an independent system prevailed, without central, executive authority. The country was controlled by so-called territorial chiefs, who met in the summer to promulgate laws. This period is often referred to as the Golden Age of Iceland.
During this period, Christianity and thus the Catholic faith was adopted, making monasteries and bishoprics the center of literature and learning. Finally, in 1550, after the Reformation, the Lutheran faith became the state religion.
However, after years of conflicts between the leading families in Iceland, the Norwegian king took advantage of these disagreements and eventually subjugated the country to the Norwegian crown. Thus, the age of monarchies in the Nordic country was over and the long period of foreign rule began. In 1397, Norwegian rule was followed by submission to the Danish crown.
Regaining independence
After a long period under the power of other countries, Iceland managed to regain its independence step by step in the 19th century. Still a part of the Danish state, Iceland received its own constitution in 1874 and self-government in 1904. In 1918 the Icelandic nation state was finally founded, but still in personal union with the Danish king. In 1944, the proclamation of the republic as a parliamentary democracy was the final step towards independence. Since that year, the head of state has been democratically elected by the Icelandic people.
Iceland today
After World War II, Iceland became a member of the UN, the OECD, a founding member of NATO, and also concluded a defense agreement with the USA in 1951. In 1964, it also became a party to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, which was later incorporated into the WTO.
In 1970 the island state joined the European Free Trade Area, in 1994 it became part of the European Economic Area and in 2001 it joined the Schengen Agreement.
You want to travel to Iceland?
Are you as enthusiastic about Iceland as we are? Then join us on our nine days Iceland trip and experience the country in its full glory. We are looking forward to seeing you!
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