30 Greenland Facts That Will Change the Way You See the Island

30 surprising facts about Greenland that reveal the hidden depths of this Arctic wonderland, from its intriguing history and progressive prison system to the stunning absence of roads connecting its towns.

1. The World’s Largest Island

Greenland holds the title of the world’s largest island, covering over 2.1 million square kilometers (836,000 square miles). It’s about three times the size of Texas! Despite its vastness, more than 80% of Greenland is covered by an ice sheet, making it a unique land of contrasts with its icy interior and more habitable, ice-free coastal regions. Although it's geographically part of North America, Greenland has stronger political and cultural ties to Europe, particularly Denmark. Its massive size and remote location have long captivated explorers, scientists, and adventurous travelers seeking untouched wilderness.

2. A Small Population

With just over 56,000 residents, Greenland has one of the lowest population densities in the world. Most people live along the ice-free coastal regions, especially in the southwest, where the climate is milder. The largest town, Nuuk, is home to around 18,000 people, nearly a third of the total population. Despite its sparse population, Greenland has a rich cultural diversity, primarily consisting of Inuit and Danish heritage. The small, close-knit communities offer a unique blend of modern and traditional lifestyles, with ancient Inuit customs and language still thriving alongside modern conveniences.

3. It’s Part of the Kingdom of Denmark

Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. It gained home rule in 1979 and expanded its self-governance in 2009. Although Greenland manages most of its internal affairs, Denmark retains control over foreign policy, defense, and financial policy. This unique relationship allows Greenland to have its own government and parliament while being part of a larger kingdom. Danish influence is evident in Greenland's education system, language, and economic support. However, there is an ongoing debate about full independence, with many Greenlanders advocating for more autonomy in the future.

4. The Name Is Misleading

The name “Greenland” is thought to be a clever marketing ploy by the Viking explorer Erik the Red, who named it to attract settlers despite its icy landscape. According to legend, after being exiled from Iceland, Erik wanted to make the new land sound more appealing. While the coasts of Greenland do have some green areas in summer, most of the island is covered by an ice sheet that’s over two kilometers thick in places. The name may have been misleading, but it certainly piqued the curiosity of adventurous Norse settlers looking for new opportunities.

5. The Greenland Ice Sheet

The Greenland Ice Sheet is the second-largest body of ice in the world, surpassed only by Antarctica. It covers roughly 1.7 million square kilometers (656,000 square miles) and is up to 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) thick in some areas. The ice sheet is a crucial part of the global climate system, reflecting sunlight and regulating ocean currents. Scientists study it intensively to understand past climate conditions and predict future changes. With global warming, the ice sheet is melting at an accelerated rate, contributing significantly to rising sea levels and posing challenges for coastal communities worldwide.

6. Melting Ice and Rising Sea Levels

Greenland’s ice is melting at an alarming rate due to climate change. Over the past few decades, the melt rate has increased, releasing millions of tons of freshwater into the oceans. If the entire Greenland Ice Sheet were to melt, it would cause global sea levels to rise by about 7 meters (23 feet), dramatically altering coastlines and affecting cities around the world. The melting ice also disrupts local ecosystems and traditional Inuit hunting practices, as animals like polar bears and seals lose their natural habitats. This makes Greenland a crucial area of focus for climate research.

7. Nuuk: The World’s Northernmost Capital

Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, is the world’s northernmost capital city, situated just south of the Arctic Circle. With a population of around 18,000, it’s a vibrant hub that blends modernity with tradition. The city offers colorful houses, a picturesque harbor, and stunning views of mountains and fjords. Despite its small size, Nuuk has a lively cultural scene, including museums, art galleries, and festivals that celebrate Greenlandic culture and heritage. The city’s unique Arctic environment provides opportunities for hiking, sailing, and viewing the Northern Lights, making it a fascinating destination for adventurous travelers.

8. Northern Lights Galore

Greenland is one of the best places on Earth to witness the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. This natural light display occurs when solar particles interact with the Earth’s magnetic field, creating vibrant colors that dance across the Arctic sky. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Greenland is from September to April, during the long, dark nights. Towns like Kangerlussuaq and Ilulissat offer some of the most spectacular views, far from light pollution. Experiencing the Northern Lights in Greenland’s remote, icy landscape is an unforgettable adventure, drawing visitors from around the world.

9. The Midnight Sun

During the summer months, parts of Greenland experience the phenomenon known as the "midnight sun," where the sun doesn’t set for several weeks. In areas north of the Arctic Circle, such as Ilulissat and Uummannaq, the sun remains above the horizon 24 hours a day, bathing the landscape in a continuous, golden light. This unique natural event offers extended opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, sailing, and wildlife watching. The midnight sun is a symbol of the Arctic’s extremes, contrasting sharply with the long, dark winters and making summer in Greenland a truly magical experience.

10. Unique Indigenous Culture

The majority of Greenland’s population is Inuit, with a cultural heritage that stretches back thousands of years. Inuit traditions are deeply intertwined with the natural environment, emphasizing skills like hunting, fishing, and craftsmanship. Greenlandic culture is also rich in storytelling, music, and dance, often reflecting themes of survival and respect for nature. Today, many Greenlanders maintain these traditions while also embracing modern influences. For example, the national sport, “kayaking,” has evolved from a traditional hunting technique to a popular recreational activity. The unique blend of old and new makes Greenland’s culture both vibrant and resilient.

11. No Roads Between Towns

Greenland’s rugged terrain and vast ice sheet mean there are no roads connecting towns and settlements. Unlike most countries, Greenland’s unique geography and extreme Arctic conditions make building and maintaining an interconnected road network nearly impossible. Most of Greenland’s 56,000 residents live in small, isolated communities scattered along the coasts, primarily in the southwestern region. Without roads, the primary means of transportation between these settlements are boats, planes, helicopters, and, in some areas during winter, snowmobiles and dogsleds. This isolation fosters a unique way of life, where each town functions almost like a self-contained entity with its own infrastructure, such as schools, hospitals, and stores, since traveling to neighboring communities for services can be challenging and time-consuming.

Air travel is the most reliable method of long-distance transport in Greenland. The island has several small regional airports, and Air Greenland, the national airline, operates flights between major towns. For shorter distances and connections to more remote villages, helicopters are often used. The coastal shipping service, known as Arctic Umiaq Line, operates passenger and cargo ferries, offering a more leisurely and scenic travel option during the ice-free summer months.

The isolation created by the absence of roads has a significant impact on daily life in Greenland. It shapes everything from logistics and emergency services to social interactions and economic development. This unique situation has also cultivated a deep sense of community and self-reliance among Greenlanders, who are accustomed to the challenges posed by their remote and often harsh environment.

12. A Land of Arctic Wildlife

Greenland is home to a diverse array of Arctic wildlife, adapted to its extreme environment. Majestic polar bears roam the northern regions, while musk oxen, reindeer, and Arctic foxes inhabit the tundra. The surrounding waters are rich with marine life, including seals, whales, and the elusive narwhal, known as the "unicorn of the sea" due to its long, spiraled tusk. Bird enthusiasts will find a paradise here, with species like puffins, guillemots, and the white-tailed eagle. This unique wildlife makes Greenland a haven for nature lovers and an essential destination for wildlife photographers.

13. It’s an Arctic Desert

Although Greenland is mostly covered in ice, it’s classified as an Arctic desert because of its low annual precipitation, especially in the interior. Some areas receive less than 250 millimeters (10 inches) of precipitation a year, comparable to the Sahara Desert. This dry climate is due to the cold temperatures that limit moisture in the air. Despite the harsh conditions, life persists in the form of hardy lichens, mosses, and low shrubs. This unique environment offers a stark beauty, where the seemingly barren landscape hides a surprising resilience and a delicate ecosystem.

14. Greenland’s Languages

Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) is the official language of Greenland and is spoken by most of the population. It’s part of the Eskimo-Aleut language family, characterized by its complex grammar and long, descriptive words. Danish is also widely spoken, reflecting Greenland’s historical ties to Denmark. Many Greenlanders are bilingual, switching easily between Greenlandic and Danish, and English is commonly spoken in larger towns and by those working in the tourism industry. The preservation of the Greenlandic language is an important cultural priority, with schools teaching in Greenlandic and efforts to promote its use in media and public life.

15. First Settlers Over 4,500 Years Ago

Greenland’s first known inhabitants were the Paleo-Eskimo peoples, who arrived over 4,500 years ago. These early settlers, including the Saqqaq and Dorset cultures, adapted to the harsh Arctic environment with ingenious tools and hunting techniques. They were followed by the Thule people, ancestors of today’s Inuit, who arrived around 1,000 AD and developed a thriving culture based on hunting marine mammals like seals and whales. The arrival of the Norse around the same time introduced new cultural exchanges. The story of Greenland’s first settlers is one of adaptation, survival, and a deep connection to the natural world.

16. Norse Ruins

Greenland was home to Norse settlers from around 985 AD, when Erik the Red founded two main settlements: the Eastern and Western Settlements. These communities flourished for several centuries, with populations reaching up to 5,000 people. The Norse left behind impressive ruins, including churches, farms, and other stone structures that can still be visited today. The most famous site is Hvalsey Church, the best-preserved Norse ruin in Greenland. The Norse eventually disappeared from Greenland around the 15th century, possibly due to a combination of climate change, economic difficulties, and conflict with the Inuit.

17. Greenland's Flag

The Greenlandic flag, adopted in 1985, features two horizontal stripes of white and red, with a red and white disk slightly off-center. The flag symbolizes Greenland’s natural environment and culture: the white represents the ice and snow that cover most of the island, while the red symbolizes the sun. The circular design reflects the sun setting into the sea, a common sight in Greenland. This unique flag, distinct from Denmark’s, represents Greenland’s growing sense of national identity and pride. It’s often flown alongside the Danish flag, illustrating Greenland’s autonomy within the Kingdom of Denmark.

18. Thule Air Base

Thule Air Base, located in northwest Greenland, is the United States' northernmost military base. Established during World War II, it now serves as a key installation for U.S. and NATO defense. The base is strategically important for its radar systems, which provide early warning of missile launches and space surveillance. It’s also home to a small international community, including military personnel, scientists, and support staff. The base’s presence in Greenland is sometimes controversial, highlighting geopolitical interests in the Arctic region and the complex relationship between Greenland, Denmark, and the United States.

19. Icebergs in Ilulissat

Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most active and visually stunning ice-producing areas in the world. Located on Greenland’s west coast, the fjord is fed by the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, which calves around 35 billion tons of icebergs each year. These massive icebergs, some towering over 100 meters (328 feet) above sea level, drift slowly down the fjord before reaching Disko Bay and the open sea. The sight of these towering icebergs, shimmering in shades of blue and white, is a breathtaking spectacle and a popular draw for tourists and photographers.

20. No Agriculture

Due to its harsh Arctic climate, Greenland has little to no agriculture. The growing season is short, and the soil quality is poor, limiting the cultivation of crops. Instead, Greenlanders rely heavily on fishing, hunting, and imported goods. Fish, especially shrimp and halibut, are the main exports and a crucial part of the economy. Traditional hunting of seals, whales, and reindeer remains vital in many communities, both for food and as a cultural practice. Recent climate changes have made small-scale farming more feasible in southern Greenland, but it’s still a challenging endeavor in this icy landscape.

21. Kayak Origins

The word "kayak" originates from the Greenlandic language, and these traditional boats were crafted by the Inuit people for hunting seals and whales. Kayaks were custom-built to fit the individual hunter, with frames made of driftwood or whale bones and skins stretched tightly over them. They were lightweight, maneuverable, and designed for stealth, allowing hunters to approach their prey silently. Today, kayaking has become a popular recreational activity worldwide, but in Greenland, it’s a living tradition, celebrated each year at the Greenland National Kayaking Championship, where skills like rolling and racing are showcased.

22. A Burgeoning Tourism Industry

Greenland’s tourism industry has been growing steadily, attracting adventurous travelers seeking unique Arctic experiences. Visitors are drawn to the island’s stunning natural beauty, from towering icebergs and glaciers to the vibrant Northern Lights. Activities like hiking, dogsledding, whale watching, and exploring Inuit culture offer a chance to connect with one of the world’s last great wildernesses. Tourism provides an important source of income and employment, especially as traditional industries like fishing face challenges. However, there’s a focus on sustainable tourism to ensure that Greenland’s fragile environment and cultural heritage are preserved for future generations.

23. No Membership in the EU

Greenland was once part of the European Community (now the European Union) but withdrew in 1985 following a dispute over fishing rights and quotas. Greenlanders voted to leave in a 1982 referendum, becoming one of the few territories to exit the EU. This decision allows Greenland more control over its rich fishing waters, which are a crucial part of the economy. However, Greenland maintains a special relationship with the EU, benefiting from financial aid and trade agreements. This unique status allows Greenland to navigate its economic and political interests independently while still engaging with Europe.

24. The Polar Bear Icon

The polar bear, an emblematic symbol of the Arctic, is also a symbol of Greenland, appearing on the national coat of arms. Polar bears inhabit the northern and eastern regions of Greenland, living on the sea ice where they hunt seals, their primary food source. They are a vital part of the Arctic ecosystem but face threats from climate change as melting sea ice reduces their hunting grounds. Despite these challenges, polar bears remain a powerful cultural and ecological symbol in Greenland, representing the wild, untamed nature of the island’s remote northern regions.

25. Harsh Winters and Cool Summers

Greenland’s climate is defined by extremes, with harsh, bitterly cold winters and cool, short summers. Winter temperatures can plunge to -50°C (-58°F) in the interior, while coastal areas, where most people live, are slightly milder but still frigid. Summers are cool, with temperatures rarely exceeding 10°C (50°F). The long winter nights and short summer days, especially in the northern regions, create unique living conditions that have shaped Greenlandic culture and lifestyle. Residents make the most of the brief summer, engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, while winter is a time for community and traditional activities.

26. No Forests

Greenland has no natural forests, but small patches of Arctic vegetation, such as birch and willow shrubs, can be found in the southern regions. These plants are adapted to the harsh conditions, with short growing seasons and cold temperatures. In recent years, experimental tree planting has been carried out, with mixed results, due to the challenging climate. The absence of forests contributes to the island’s stark, open landscape, where the tundra stretches as far as the eye can see. This unique environment offers a striking beauty, where even small patches of greenery stand out against the icy backdrop.

27. A Popular Filming Location

Greenland’s dramatic landscapes, with its vast ice sheets, towering mountains, and stunning fjords, have made it a popular location for filmmakers. Movies like "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" and "Interstellar" have showcased Greenland’s breathtaking scenery, bringing its remote beauty to a global audience. The island’s unspoiled nature provides a stunning backdrop for stories set in extreme environments. Filming in Greenland presents logistical challenges due to its remoteness and harsh conditions, but the stunning visuals captured on screen make it worth the effort, highlighting Greenland’s unique and otherworldly landscapes.

28. Rich Mineral Resources

Greenland is believed to have vast untapped mineral resources, including gold, diamonds, uranium, and rare earth elements. These resources have attracted interest from international mining companies, but the development of large-scale mining projects is controversial. Environmental concerns, the impact on local communities, and the need to balance economic benefits with sustainable development are hotly debated topics. Additionally, climate change is making some previously inaccessible areas more reachable, potentially opening new opportunities for exploration. Greenland’s government is navigating these complex issues, seeking to develop its resources responsibly while preserving its unique environment and cultural heritage.

29. The Jail System in Greenland

Greenland’s correctional system is as unique as its geography. There are no high-security prisons on the island, and the approach to incarceration focuses more on rehabilitation and reintegration rather than strict punishment. The most well-known facility is the open prison in Nuuk, the capital, which reflects Greenland's progressive and humane approach to criminal justice.

In Nuuk’s open prison, inmates live in conditions that are quite different from the traditional concept of a jail. Prisoners have private rooms rather than cells, complete with personal items like televisions and computers. They are allowed to cook their own meals, and during the day, they can leave the facility for work or educational programs. The idea behind this system is to prepare inmates for a smooth transition back into society, promoting responsibility and self-sufficiency.

This open prison model is possible in part because of Greenland’s low crime rate and small population. Serious crimes, such as murder, are relatively rare. When they do occur, inmates serving longer sentences are often transferred to Denmark, where Greenlandic prisoners have designated spaces in Danish prisons. This arrangement is necessary because Greenland lacks the infrastructure to house long-term or high-risk prisoners, and sending them to Denmark ensures that they receive the appropriate level of security and support.

The rehabilitation-focused system in Greenland aligns with Inuit cultural values, which emphasize community, reconciliation, and healing over punitive measures. This approach aims to address the root causes of criminal behavior, such as social and psychological issues, rather than simply isolating offenders from society. By fostering personal growth and community ties, Greenland’s correctional system hopes to reduce recidivism and support a more harmonious social fabric.

30. A Country of Resilience

Greenlanders have a long history of resilience, adapting to one of the harshest climates on Earth. The Inuit have thrived here for thousands of years, developing skills and knowledge essential for survival in the Arctic. Modern Greenlanders continue to embody this resilience, blending traditional practices with contemporary life. Climate change, economic challenges, and cultural shifts pose ongoing tests, but the spirit of adaptability and community remains strong. Whether navigating the ice-covered seas or preserving their unique cultural heritage, Greenlanders are a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.

Exploring these surprising aspects reveals a place where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously in one of the world’s most remote and captivating regions.