Reykjavík - Pearl Observatory

(Local Name: Perlan) With its silvery glass domes the Perlan is Reykjavík's most recognizable landmark. Designed to be multi-functional, it serves as an observatory, restaurant, conference center and visitor attraction.

Views are offered from the revolving restaurant which sits atop of four gigantic tanks each containing 4,000 liters/880 gal of 80°C/176°F water for the city's geothermal hot water system. The heat from below is conducted through the building's metal frame and warms the building.

The Reykjavík Power Company has provided a fountain that simulates the activity of a geyser and from the balcony views of Reykjavík and the harbor are accessible through telescopes accompanied by informative tape recordings in English, Norwegian, German and French.