|
The capital of Greenland is Nuuk, formerly known as Godthåb. It is the first, the largest and the most important city in Greenland.
The region which is now Nuuk has a history of varied occupation. It was the site of Viking exploration and inhabitation in the tenth century, and shortly thereafter, that of the Inuit people. The Viking and the Inuit cohabited in the area till about 1500 A.D. The city was founded by the Norwegian missionary Hans Egede in the year 1728, and was called Godthåb. It was the very first city in Greenland.
With a population of about 15,000, Nuuk, the capital, is the largest municipality in Greenland, and a fast-growing city. It is currently the mainstay of all trade, industry, administration and shipping in Greenland. It is situated at the mouth of the Godthåbsfiord, on the west coast of Greenland. It has Arctic climate, and in winter the night sky is often lit up by the Aurora Borealis.
The residents of the capital city speak both Danish and Greenlandic. The currency in prevalence is the Danish Krone. The city is home to the University of Greenland, and also has a international airport.
The capital city is the most important trade and administration location. The head offices of banks, administration companies, travel agencies, business organizations, and a variety of hotels and restaurants are found here.
Nuuk has a modern harbor, the center for the prevalent fishing industry. The parliament, the law court, hospitals, a national library and a national museum are found here. Scenic locations in and around Nuuk make it a tourist attraction.
|
