With an area of approximately 2.1 million square miles (more than 3 times the size of Texas), Greenland is the world's largest island.CIA World Factbook: Greenland The majority of the island is covered entirely by ice and located within the Arctic Circle.National Geographic: Greenland Guide The country has a total population of 57,564 inhabitants, with 25% residing in the capital city of Nuuk.CIA World Factbook: Greenland
Nuuk
Located on the southeast side of the country, Nuuk, the capital city of Greenland, is one of the smallest capitals in the world with a population of approximately 15,000. Nuuk is home to a variety of tourist attractions including whale safarisOfficial Tourism Site: West Greenland and the Katuaq Cultural Centre.Katuaq Cultural Centre: Home Page
History
Greenland was settled by the Vikings during the 10th century.PBS: Vikings in Greenland Erik the Red was the founder of the first settlement. He named the country Greenland to make prospective Icelandic colonists believe that the land was rich and fertile.National Geographic: Greenland Guide The Danes began to colonize Greenland in the 1700s. Denmark granted Greenland Home Rule in 1979, but continues to be responsible for foreign affairs. The country still relies heavily on Denmark for financial support.CIA World Factbook: Greenland
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