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Greenland
Fact File on Greenland
Continent: North America
Capital City: Nuuk
Population: 57,000+
Official Language: Greenlandic
Currency: Danish Krone
Where is Greenland?
Greenland is located in the Arctic, between the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. It is the world’s largest island that isn’t a continent! Even though it’s geographically part of the North American continent, Greenland is politically associated with Europe as it is a territory of Denmark, we’ll learn a bit more about that later.
Greenland has a population of around 57,000 people, making it one of the least densely populated places in the world. Most of the population lives along the coast, as the interior is covered by a massive ice sheet.
The official language is Greenlandic, but Danish and English are widely spoken too.
To say hello in Greenlandic, you say “Aluu” (Ah-loo).
The capital city of Greenland is Nuuk, and the currency here is the Danish Krone.
Top 5 things to do in Greenland
Ilulissat Icefjord
The Ilulissat Icefjord is a breathtaking natural wonder filled with massive icebergs that break off from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world. If you're lucky, you might even hear the ice cracking and crashing into the water.
Visit a Traditional Inuit Settlement
Greenland is home to small, colorful Inuit villages like Uummannaq and Tasiilaq, where you can experience the traditional Kalaallit way of life. Learn how the Inuit have adapted to living in the Arctic for thousands of years.
Hike the Arctic Tundra
During the summer, Greenland’s tundra transforms into a colorful landscape of wildflowers, mosses, and lichen. Hiking trails in areas like South Greenland or the Arctic Circle Trail take you through rugged mountains, valleys, and fjords, where you’ll see animals like musk oxen and Arctic hares.
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is not just a fun activity—it’s one of the only ways to effectively get around in Greenland! Hop onto a sled pulled by Greenlandic huskies, which are strong, hardworking dogs bred for Arctic conditions.
Whale Watching
Greenland’s waters are teeming with whales, especially in the summer months. You can spot humpbacks, minke whales, and even the enormous blue whale! Whale-watching tours are a fantastic way to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
History of Greenland
THERE'S MORE...
You might be wondering how people ended up living on and around this massive ice-covered land. Let’s shift from geography to explore the history, people, and the unique Inuit culture of Greenland.
The first settlers arrived over 4,000 years ago—the Inuit, whose descendants still live across Greenland today. The Inuit population is mainly divided into three groups: the Kalaalit in the west, the Tunumiit in the east, and the Inughuit in the north. Their traditional way of life depended on hunting and fishing to survive the harsh Arctic environment. They hunted seals, whales, and musk oxen, showing incredible resilience. The Inuit culture is known for its distinct traditions, including inventing the kayak for hunting on water and building igloos from ice blocks to shelter from cold winds.
In 982, an Icelandic Viking named Erik the Red arrived and named the land “Greenland” to attract settlers, despite its icy terrain. The Vikings established farms and coastal villages that are still inhabited today.
Now, regarding the Denmark and Greenland relationship and the question, does Denmark own Greenland—the story goes back to 1721, when a Danish missionary, Hans Egede, sailed to southern Greenland searching for the Norse settlers’ descendants. Finding none, he re-established a Danish settlement that began trade with Denmark. By 1814, Greenland officially became part of the Kingdom of Denmark because of this successful settlement.
For centuries, Denmark ruled Greenland directly. However, the Inuit people in the north fought hard to keep their Inuit culture and traditions alive despite foreign control.
In modern times, Greenland gained political autonomy through home rule in 1979, allowing Greenlanders to make decisions about important areas like education and healthcare. In 2009, Greenland achieved self-government, granting even more control over its own affairs.
So, does Denmark own Greenland today? Greenland remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark but with significant self-governance. Denmark still manages defense, foreign policy, and financial support, but Greenland controls most domestic matters.
Today, Greenlanders are proud of their unique identity, blending ancient Inuit traditions with Danish influences. The Denmark and Greenland relationship is complex but cooperative, supporting Greenland’s efforts to protect its environment, preserve its culture, and shape its future. Greenlanders continue to honor their remarkable history while navigating the challenges and opportunities of modern self-rule.
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