WorldSumma

🇬🇱Greenland

About Greenland

Greenland, the world's largest island that is not a continent, stretches across the Arctic Circle with icy fjords, towering glaciers, and a resilient Inuit heritage that shapes its modern identity.

Dominated by the Greenland Ice Sheet, which covers about 80% of the landmass, Greenland boasts dramatic fjords, rugged coastlines, and the towering peaks of the Watkins Range. The ice sheet's meltwater feeds into the world's coldest ocean currents, while its coastal areas experience milder conditions that support limited vegetation and wildlife such as polar bears, musk oxen, and seals.

Greenlandic culture blends ancient Inuit traditions with Danish influences. Residents celebrate festivals like the National Day on June 21, marked by drum dances, kayaking, and traditional drum music. The cuisine highlights local ingredients—seal, whale, reindeer, and hearty dishes like suaasat (a fish or meat stew)—reflecting a deep connection to the sea and land.

A pivotal moment in Greenland's history occurred in 1721 when Danish missionary Hans Egede established a settlement at Nuuk, initiating centuries of Danish colonization that shaped the island's political and cultural landscape, eventually leading to home rule in 1979 and further autonomy in 2009.

Key Facts

  • Greenland is the world's largest island, covering about 2.16 million square kilometers, yet it has a population of just over 56,000 people.
  • Approximately 80% of Greenland's surface is covered by the massive ice sheet, making it a critical indicator of global climate change.
  • The capital, Nuuk, is the world's northernmost capital city with a population exceeding 18,000 residents.

Country Details

Capital

Nuuk

Region / Subregion

Americas / Northern America

Native Name

Kalaallit Nunaat

Nationality

Greenlandic

Currency

Danish krone (DKK - Kr.)

Phone Code

299

Top-Level Domain

.gl

ISO Codes

ISO2: GL / ISO3: GRL

Coordinates

Lat: 72, Lng: -40

Greenland: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capital of Greenland?

The capital of Greenland is Nuuk.

What currency is used in Greenland?

Greenland uses the Danish krone (DKK), with the symbol Kr..

Where is Greenland located?

Greenland is located in Northern America, Americas.

What is the native name of Greenland?

The native name of Greenland is Kalaallit Nunaat.

What are people from Greenland called?

People from Greenland are referred to as Greenlandic.

What is the phone calling code for Greenland?

The international dialing code for Greenland is +299.