Icelandic Culture

When I came to Iceland for the first time, the most intriguing thing was how do they manage to keep their Icelandic culture so alive? The answer is simple, as an island nation Iceland was isolated and locals were forced to develop its own cuisine, music, folklore, theatre and even fashion. This nation appreciates nature and outdoors; it respects the age old traditions but also embraces trends and rich European culture. That’s why Icelanders are so flexible, open minded and friendly.
So, what’s the best way to get to know Iceland? Start with museums, you can learn thousands of years of history and get familiar with local art. I recommend the following places:

1. Listasafn Íslands/National Gallery of Iceland
2. Einar Jónsson Museum
3. Reykjavík Art Museum/ Kjarvalsstadir
4. Reykjavík Art Museum/ Harbour House
5. Reykjavík Museum of Photography

Best way to experience Iceland is to become a part of it. Blend with locals at Reykjavik Art Festival, Icelanders gather together almost every month to celebrate art in all its forms. Check out Icelandic Opera, enjoy modern dance performance at the Icelandic Dance Company or watch an unusual play at the National Theater of Iceland.

Icelandic population is small but rich in culture, did you know that Iceland also produced many worldwide celebrities and talented artists?

Baltasar Kormákur is a famouse Hollywood producer and director is the only Icelandic director to be nominated for an Oscar. Arnaldur Indriðason, is a popular author of various crime fiction stories. His work have been translated into various languages and published around the world, he won many prestigious literature awards. Iceland is proud of its beautiful women and no wonder that Iceland has won Miss World four times. Eiður Smári Gudjohnsen is a world known soccer player, he is currently plays for Club Brugge. Everybody knows funky and fashion forward musician Bjork. She is considered the most internationally famous Icelander.

Enjoy your trip to Iceland!