Reykjavík, the world's most northerly capital, is Iceland's focal point and government seat. Colorful, with its low rows of brightly painted houses topped with equally-bright roofs, Reykjavik is unlike any other European capital. Established in the late 19th C Reykjavik has all the conveniences of a modern city but its design resembles a small
town. Nearly everything of interest in this city of 150,000 is within walking distance of the center.
Situated in Iceland's southwest corner on Faxaflói Bay and overlooked by Mount Esja, Reykjavik was dubbed "Smoky Bay by Iceland's first settler, Ingólfur Arnarson due to the steam rising from hot springs. Reykjavík is now known as the 'smokeless city' due to continual winds and the city's reliance on geothermal heat. The faint odor of hydrogen sulphide that hangs over the city is a by-product of this natural central heating system.
Reykjavík has a very wet climate with winds and rain blowing in from the sea. The Gulf Stream prevents it from becoming as cold as its northerly latitude might dictate. Reykjavík's assortment of birches, willows and pines are a contrast to the almost treeless countryside.
The long winters have just four hours of daylight on December days. Harsh winters have bred a rich cultural and artistic life and the city has a wealth of galleries, theaters, museums plus ballet and opera. Summer brings the midnight sun when Reykjavík's streets take on a carnival atmosphere.
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