Population of the Faroe Islands. Map of the Faroe Islands with cities. Geography of the Faroe Islands

Not everyone can quickly show where they are Faroe islands, since many simply do not know in which part of the map to look for them. Meanwhile, more and more tourists are visiting these islands. Of course, tourists do not have to count on beach holiday. Most people come here who want to completely get away from cities, noise, dust and be alone with amazing nature.

The islands have been repeatedly recognized as the most amazing and cleanest on the planet. So where are the Faroe Islands on the world map? The nearest Icelandic coast is almost 500 km! Almost all goods are imported from Iceland, and the country's economy rests solely on sheep and herring. That is, the Faroe Islands sell fish products and sheep wool to Europe. Despite this, the standard of living on the islands is one of the highest in the world. Until the mid-nineteenth century, the country's economy was entirely dependent on the sale of sheep wool. Even now this livestock industry is so developed that the number of sheep almost doubles the number of inhabitants of the islands. There are practically no trees on the Faroe Islands, but the green meadows and unusual landscape attract hundreds of photographers from all over the world.

How to get there?

There are no direct flights from Russia to the islands, but you can fly to Norway or Denmark with a transfer at one of their airports. You can book a flight to the islands themselves via the Internet.
There are regular ferries or other forms of transport between the islands that you can take advantage of. For a fee, you can hire a boat to travel around all the islands.

You will not be able to enter the islands with a Schengen visa. Even though they officially belong to Denmark, there are laws here. The islands deliberately refused to participate in the European Union, as they consider European taxes on fishing unacceptable.

Therefore, to travel you need to apply for a visa to Visa Application Center Denmark with a special note in one of the cities of Russia.

There are such centers in many major cities. Most travelers to these lands use the services of a travel agency. All documents necessary for a visa are transferred to the agency, and its employees, after processing, pass them on to their clients.

What to do on the islands?

Tourists note several main points that should be done in the Faroe Islands.

• Try whale meat and lamb dishes. Sometimes food products are marinated for a year.
• You can buy first-class wool for knitting in any store.
• Take a photo in front of a giant mailbox located on Sandoy Island.

Climate

Not every tourist will like the climate of the islands. Z and a year on the islands there can be no more than 80 sunny days without rain. But even in sunny weather, the winds blow with terrible force. But people come here precisely when they want to retire, to be alone with a picturesque rock and to feel like they are on the edge of the earth.

In summer, the air temperature rarely rises above 15-17 degrees, and in winter it is very cold here due to high humidity. True, the water in coastal areas does not freeze in winter due to the Gulf Stream washing the islands. The water temperature in winter near the islands is about 10 degrees. Only a small number of tourists visit this area in winter, so winter is a favorite season for divers. In addition to the high temperature, the water has ideal transparency.

The fauna of the Faroe Islands cannot boast of much diversity. In addition to marine animals, there were initially no animals on the territory. Most species were brought here by humans.

History of the islands

There are 18 main islands and only one of them is uninhabited. The first people settled the islands back in the eighth century. For decades, the islands served as a kind of transhipment point for the Vikings. Long time The Faroe Islands belonged to Norway and Denmark, but in the 19th century the territory became exclusively Danish. During World War II, the territory of the islands was occupied by British troops. This was a response to the actions of Germany, which captured Denmark. After the war, the islands were going to secede from Denmark, but received only partial sovereignty.

Excursions and attractions of the islands

Despite the above main points that a tourist should do, the Faroe Islands have plenty to offer everyone. Main islands:

• The cleanliness of the air is amazing
• beauty of high mountains,
• green slopes with flocks of sheep.

Each city is unique in its own way. Amazing compact size small towns, especially when viewed from above and bright roofs painted in different colors. One of the peaks is a sheer rock, which the best climbers on the planet have been trying to conquer for many years without success. This is one of the highest cliffs in the world.

Streymoy Island - favorite place fishing lovers. Here you can catch large salmon, eels, and halibut. When visiting Nolsoy, you can admire the seal rookeries, where hundreds of animals are located. Fugloy Island, (which means " Bird Island") are loved by millions of birds. The height of the cliffs exceeds 500-600 meters and many bird species happily settle on such cliffs.

But in addition to the natural attractions in the Faroe Islands, you should definitely visit the ancient Munkastovan monastery, which is more than five hundred years old. In the seventeenth century, a terrible fire raged in the city. The only building left in the city after the fire was Munkastovan. A must-visit is the Nordic House, where he works concert hall, art gallery. At night, introductory events are held for guests of the islands.

Culture and customs

The area where the Faroe Islands are located, and national culture developed for almost a thousand years away from the peoples of Scandinavia. But their influence is clearly visible in national rituals and celebrations. For example, one of the Oulavsøk holidays is reminiscent of a festival held in Norway. This day is celebrated on all the islands of the archipelago. At this time, water competitions between residents of different villages and cities and equestrian competitions are held on the islands.

Despite the remoteness of the mainland, the islands even have their own football team, which has been a member of FIFA for over 25 years. The stadium for training and international matches, which is located on the ocean.

Kitchen

When talking about the culture of the Faroe Islands, it is impossible not to talk about the cuisine. The main two ingredients that the islanders use are whale meat and lamb. Local residents prefer to eat all dishes separately, without mixing them. But National dishes most often prepared at home local residents. Most restaurants offer international dishes with hints of local and Danish cuisine.

Most residents eat a sandwich-like dish in the morning, consisting of pieces of meat, bread and butter, fish, and cheese. But unlike sandwiches, you must use a fork and knife to eat such food. Whale meat and lamb are dried in a special way in the cold sea wind. Particularly worth trying is a dish called "Ruyskjöt" - this dish is dried meat that is prepared for several months. And “skerpikyot” is meat that has been dried for more than a year and is ready to eat without any additional processing. Fish is often dried in this way.

There are almost no fish shops in the Faroe Islands, and local residents, if they need to put fish on the table, catch it themselves. Potatoes, rice or other products serve as a side dish. Drinks in the Faroe Islands are dominated by coffee and tea. Traditional black tea is often supplemented with herbs that grow on the mountain slopes of the archipelago. Meals are often accompanied by drinking beer and other strong alcoholic drinks.

Policy

The local parliament consists of 33 deputies who are elected for four years. Although the Queen of Denmark is formally considered the head of state, on the islands all processes are managed by the High Commissioner.

The islands' parliament has sufficient powers to refuse accession to the European Union. The main reason is disagreement with Europe regarding approaches to the problem of territorial waters. The government of the islands mainly decides on issues of external and internal regulation, and Denmark supplies the archipelago with everything else (defense, justice, financing issues). The Parliament building itself looks like a building with lawn grass growing on the roof. There are many such buildings on the islands that periodically require mowing the lawn on the roof.

More than five hundred experts have recognized the islands as the best in the world in the field of tourism. Beautifully preserved nature, clean air and good nature local population became the reason that the islands are visited by many tourists from all over the world throughout the year.

The Faroe Islands have many natural attractions that every traveler should see. Here are the most interesting of them.

The Faroe Islands are not the most popular tourist destination. This land is sometimes also called “the end of the world”, because not every person is able to find the Faroe Islands on the map. But the Faroe archipelago can rightfully be called one of the most beautiful places on our planet. Excellent conditions have been created here for hiking. And the landscapes are striking in their diversity: from rocky cliffs to heather-covered heaths; from waterfalls with crystal clean water to snow-capped mountain peaks.

Faroe Islands - attractions

We have found 6 places and points of attraction, which will definitely be enough for your first visit to see the most interesting places Faroe Islands. And get your own impression of the grandeur and beauty of the archipelago, located in the ocean - somewhere halfway from Denmark to. By the way, the Faroe Islands and all their natural attractions are under the jurisdiction of Denmark.

1. Tindholmur Island

This small island, located between the larger islands of Vágar and Michenes. It is interesting because it has a pointed mountain peak that occupies almost the entire area of ​​Tindholmur. A stunning view of this small piece of land opens from the settlement of Bour, which is located on neighboring island. But the best way to view Tindholmur is from a helicopter or ferry. You can visit the island itself, but excursions to Tindihölmur are only available in the summer.

The pointed peak of the island of Tindhölmur - the symbol of the Faroe Islands

2. Gasadalur village

It is located next to Vagar airport. This is one of the most popular and interesting places in the Faroe Islands. Despite this, you will never meet more than three people here. The small houses of this village are located on the top of a cliff next to a waterfall, the waters of which fall directly into the ocean. This place will seem like a paradise for introverts and people who love silence and solitude.

Coast of the village of Gasadalur on the island of Vágar (Faroe Islands)

3. Lake Sørvågsvatn

It is impossible not to pay attention to another attraction of the Faroe Islands, also located in close proximity to Vagar Airport. Tourists can see this lake even during landing. Local residents also gave Sørvågsvatn another name - “hanging lake”. This is due to the fact that the lake is located almost above the ocean. And if you look at it from a certain angle, it creates the illusion that the lake is hanging above the ocean surface.

Lake Sørvågsvatn is one of the most interesting places in the Faroe Islands

4. Chednuvuk village

A small village located on the territory of the island of Streymoy. The village is located in a beautiful harbor, which is surrounded on all sides Mountain peaks. Here you can see another attraction of the Faroe archipelago - two sea cliffs, the name of which, translated into Russian, sounds like “The Giant and the Witch”. Against the backdrop of the mountains, these stones may seem just tiny, but if you get closer to them, you will find that their height reaches 70 meters! Now think about how high the neighboring rocks then reach.

On the way to this beautiful village you can also see the Fossa waterfall, which is the largest in the Faroe Islands.

What else to see in the Faroe Islands? Island life, in the village of Chednuvuk!

5. Fugloy Island

This is a place where you can experience and understand what Faroese life is like. The streets here are usually deserted. You can meet local residents only at those moments when the ferry approaches the pier, and almost the entire village comes out to meet it. The rest of the time, loneliness and tranquility reign here. It may seem that the surrounding houses are empty, and you are the only person on this earth. But this does not cause a feeling of fear, only peace and melancholy.

6. Mycines Island

Like other attractions of the Faroe Islands, it can be called a real pearl of the archipelago. In summer, photographers and simply nature lovers from all over the world flock here. Firstly, the island is attractive with its beautiful scenery. Numerous paths lead directly to high cliffs and mountain cliffs. For many, this is already enough to visit the Faroe Islands. But there is another reason.

There are huge colonies of birds here. The most attractive of them are puffins, which absolutely everyone loves. There are so many of them here that nests can be seen at every step.

Bird colonies on Mycines Island - is it possible to pass by such beauty?

Another attraction of the island is a very old lighthouse (see on the cover of the article), which was built a hundred years ago. Actually, the lighthouse is located on the island of Mychinesholm, but these days a bridge has been built between it and the main island. Before the lighthouse was automated, a keeper and his family lived in it. Now create a picture of their life in your imagination. They were cut off from the rest of the world, and food and news from big land They were brought only ships.

Stories like this add a little magic to places like this...

Where to stay in the Faroe Islands

So, where is the best place to book a hotel to make it convenient to go on excursions, visit and photograph the sights of Faroe Islands? Oddly enough, the most convenient place is in the capital - from there you can buy tickets for ferries in all directions. Therefore, all the hotels that we have selected for you are located in Tórshavn:

• Hotel Føroyar 4*. Design hotel designed by the Danish bureau Friis & Moltke in an incredible picturesque place- on the shores of the Faroe fjord. Beautifully decorated modern rooms, Koks restaurant with dishes national cuisine, various lounge areas. The center of Tórshavn is 2 km from here. But each room has a view of Nolsoy Bay.

  

  Four-star hotels in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands - Hotel Føroyar

• Hotel Havn. Modern inexpensive hotel near picturesque bay- the main harbor of Tórshavn. It’s a 20-minute walk to the center from here - scenic walks- even early in the morning, even under the moon - you are provided with. But next to Hotel Havn There is also a public transport stop.

  

  Inexpensive but high-quality hotel in the Faroe Islands - Hotel Havn

  Independent apartments in the Faroe Islands

Video: the most interesting places in Faroe

Video journey from Alex Stead to the most famous attractions of the Faroe Islands.

As a summary

The Faroe Islands are a whole world away from civilization. Her crazy pace of life. Here you are surrounded only high mountains, huge open spaces and the ocean. Nothing is holding you back: neither city high-rises, nor traffic lights, nor traffic. You can go where your heart wants. This is why people in the Faroe Islands have a kind and big heart, because this is what helps them live in these wild places, surrounded only by rocks and a raging ocean.

• and routes

The Faroe Islands are ideal for sophisticated travelers who decide to take a break from the vibrant cities and noisy resorts. Archipelago located in the Norwegian Sea - the northern part Atlantic Ocean, between the Scottish Isles and Iceland - attracts even travelers with extensive experience with its beauty.

The local nature is extraordinary: gorges, lakes, numerous waterfalls, fjords, graceful rocks - all this captivates at first sight. There are practically no trees, but you can endlessly admire the snow-capped mountain peaks towering over the lands of the archipelago. The highest point of these places is Slattarathindur peak located on the island Esturoy and is 882 meters above sea level.

The Faroe Region is an internal autonomy of the Kingdom of Denmark, independently managing almost all issues, excluding the topic of defense and foreign policy. The archipelago includes 18 islands, 17 of which are inhabited. Of the 48 thousand local residents, about 20 thousand live in the capital or in the suburbs.

There are two official languages ​​on the islands - Faroese and Danish. Moreover, the vast majority of residents are native speakers of the Faroese language, which is a mixture of Western Scandinavian dialects and is widely used in almost all spheres of life.

Climate and weather

The Faroe Islands are located at the very center of the warm Gulf Stream, which causes a constant off-season: there are 280 rainy days per year. Despite the fact that the islands seem to have no boundaries to the seasons, the climate is quite mild. in winter average monthly temperature ranges from 0 °C to + 4 °C, and in the summer - from +11 °С to +17 °С. The rainy season falls from September to January, and then the archipelago is covered with fog, preventing the sun's rays from reaching the surface.

Thanks to the warm sea current, the water on the islands has almost the same temperature - +10 °С- all year round, which creates all the conditions for the development of fishing.

Nature

Holidays in the Faroe Islands are a holiday in the lap of nature in its original form. Due to frequent strong winds, the islands are mostly treeless; sometimes you can find mountain ash, maple, and conifers. A significant part of the islands' territory is occupied by peat bogs, meadows, and mountain ranges.

In their free time, fauna lovers can diversify their vacation on the islands by observing colonies of seabirds, seals, whales, and dolphins.

There are a huge number of sheep in the archipelago. The latter were once brought to the local hills by the Celts. The local endless pastures have attracted the attention of sheep, and today there are two sheep for every local resident.

Attractions

The Faroe Islands are the most comfortable to visit in summer months when precipitation is unlikely and the weather is warm.

The excursion program in the Faroe Islands is varied: visits to the capital Tórshavn, small villages, bird colonies, a boat trip in coastal waters.

The capital of the islands, the city of Tórshavn, lies in a picturesque area. The main part of the city juts out over the fjord, offering stunning views of wild mountains and steep cliffs. It's very quiet here, the only noise is central square and piers, where continuous work is in full swing. Streets far from the center are usually small and cramped.

The main attraction of Tórshavn is Munkastowan Monastery, built in the 15th century and surrounded by a stone wall. Muncastowan is one of the few buildings that escaped the great fire of 1673. Another building that also survived the fire is the Leighubün ​​royal warehouse.

Curious travelers will be interested in a trip to Historical Museum, which has in its collection ship models, household items of local residents, fishing gear and agricultural tools from Viking times to the present day, as well as items of religious value.

Taking a walk in the park Vidarlund, you can go to the Museum of Art and enjoy magnificent examples of sculpture and painting.

Available in the Faroe Islands and "Bird Island"- Fugloy, which got its name from its majestic cliffs inhabited by millions of seabird colonies.

To the north of the settlement of Skarvanes there is a beautiful sea cliff Tretlkonufingur ("troll woman's finger").

At the end of July (28-29), the Faroese celebrate their main holiday - St. Olaf's Day. These days, usually reserved locals go on a wild rampage of emotions. The festival is named after Olaf II, who, as King of Norway, introduced Christianity to Scandinavia and began the fight against paganism.

Traditionally, celebrations include rowing competitions, horse racing, dance and religious processions, and art exhibitions.

Nutrition

to his national menu The inhabitants of the Faroes owe it to the harsh climate of the islands. Traditionally local dishes consist of meat and fish. Faroese delicacies - sheep's head, whale fat and skerpiquet(dried lamb) - a must-try for gourmets. Well, lovers of traditional cuisine will be happy to serve fried lamb in local restaurants. Tourists have the opportunity to taste exquisitely stuffed with sweet dough dead ends(these are birds) served with sweet berries and potatoes. Rhubarb, which is widely eaten, will also be new to many people.

Alcoholic drinks can officially be consumed on the islands from the age of 18. Light beer is sold everywhere, but strong dark beer, low-alcohol drinks and wine are sold only in state monopoly stores major cities and licensed restaurants.

Lunch at local restaurant will cost a tourist an average of $30, in higher-level establishments - $45-50 excluding alcohol. You can have a snack at a local cafe for much less.

Accommodation

Upon arrival on the islands, you can stay in the capital's three-star hotels "Tórshavn" or "Streim" or in more comfortable "Hafnia" And "Feroyar", All hotels offer tourists rooms with private amenities, transfer to/from the airport, and free Wi-Fi throughout. The cost of living is quite high - from $120, but there are seasonal discounts.

More budget option will become guest houses and hostels. The most popular of them are Skansin and Bladýpi, but you need to book rooms several months in advance. There are also mini-hotels operating on the principle "bed and breakfast". Prices here start at $80 and depend on the time of year.

For travelers who prefer outdoor recreation, there are campsites located in specially designated areas. The Faroe Islands have a very strict attitude towards order, so campers in tents are required to remain clean and thoroughly clean upon departure.

Entertainment and relaxation

There are many varieties of fish in local waters, so fishing is very popular among local residents and holidaymakers. By the way, local law allows you to export any fish longer than 30 cm from the country, which has long been prohibited in most European countries.

The Faroe Islands are interesting for wreck divers: You can find sunken ships in the local coastal waters. Near Nolsoy Island it is interesting to watch the underwater life of seals.

Lovers nightlife can spend time in the capital's clubs Rex or Eclipse. The latter allows visitors no younger than 18, but no older than 25.

Purchases

Of the Faroese souvenirs, the most interesting are the numerous woolen products, ceramic and wooden crafts.

Due to the rather harsh climate, woolen clothing is held in high esteem among the islanders. Here you can always buy a fashionable sweater, gloves or hat at attractive prices.

Most shops are open from 9:00-10:00 to 17:30-18:00. On Friday, many remain open until 19:00. On Saturdays, all retail outlets operate on a reduced schedule - from 9:00 to 12:00, 14:00 or 16:00; on Sundays they are usually closed.

Transport

The Faroe Islands have a developed bus system. route network, ferries run between the islands. The capital has red local buses with four routes, which can reach almost all areas of the city. The waiting interval is half an hour in the morning and daytime; in the evening it increases to one hour. Blue buses Bygdaleiðir are the connecting transport of the islands. Maps of routes and schedules of passenger transport can be purchased at kiosks Steinatún.

The best way to get to the islands themselves is by plane. The only one international Airport Vagar is located on the island of the same name near the village of Sorvagur. Tourists can rent a car to travel around the islands. In order to rent, you must have an international driver's license, a credit card and be over 20 years old. Rental prices start from $60 per day.

Connection

Standard mobile communications on islands - GSM. There is also an analogue version, but it has almost been replaced by the digital format.

Local mobile operators - Foroya Tele and Kall P/F. Roaming in their networks is available to subscribers of the main mobile operators in Russia.

Tourists can purchase a SIM card for local mobile communications at Teleshops, hotels, post offices and gas stations.

In the Faroe Islands, there are sufficient numbers of public telephones (they work on credit cards and coins). When calling abroad, you need to dial 00, the national code and the number of the called subscriber.

You can use the Internet in an Internet cafe. Most hotels provide wireless connections on their premises.

Safety

When traveling around the islands, you don’t have to worry about the safety of your property - the crime rate here is extremely low. In order not to spoil your holiday, it is enough not to leave personal belongings unattended, not to take large sums of money with you, to be polite to local residents and not to abuse night walks. If necessary, the police are always ready to help.

If during your trip you need medical assistance, you can rest assured that it will be provided at the highest level. The central hospital is located in the capital and has an excellent medical base.

Business climate

Registering a business in the Faroe Islands takes only a few days. The most common forms are a joint stock company, suitable for large companies, and a limited liability company. In order to start your own business here, you need to have a legal address on the islands. Another condition is a resident of the Kingdom of Denmark as one of the participants in the case.

The minimum authorized capital for a joint stock company is approximately $85,000, for a limited liability company - about $20,000. For registration you will also need a draft memorandum of association, articles of association and an application.

Foreign companies can enter the Faroese market by opening branches. A resident of the islands or Denmark must also be appointed as the head of the branch.

From the point of view of taxation, business legislation, and accounting standards, the Faroe Islands provide optimal conditions for the development of companies. Legal regulation business activity is similar to Danish and adheres to EU standards.

The main business in the archipelago is concentrated in the services sector and the fishing industry.

Local investment websites offer offers for entrepreneurs willing to invest in new ways to develop the fishing industry. At the same time, the Faroese are very interested in high-tech businesses that can offer environmentally friendly solutions for production.

Real estate

Purchasing real estate abroad is rightfully considered one of the most promising and long-term investments. The Faroe Islands may become great place for both temporary and permanent residence. They become especially attractive to people who love comfort and privacy, and who strive for order. Offers on the real estate market are varied - from a small studio apartment to a solid large house. The prices are quite attractive. A house with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large surrounding area will cost approximately $130,000.

However, those who decide to make such a deal should keep in mind that local banks do not provide mortgages for housing in the absence of a residence permit. In addition, local legislation requires appropriate permission from the Ministry of Justice for the acquisition of property by a foreigner.

Traveling to the islands is not a cheap pleasure. The price level here is quite high and is equal to the average European one. However, when leaving the country, tourists can make a VAT refund if they have a receipt from a store operating on the system Tax Free. The corresponding inscriptions are present at the entrance to the retail facility. To qualify for a tax refund, the one-time purchase must exceed $48.

Tipping is not accepted on the islands; the service staff's remuneration is usually already included in the bill.

Fishing is permitted only in certain bodies of water on the basis of a license sold in tourist offices. If a tourist intends to take fishing gear with him from home, then it must be sanitized before arriving on the islands. Instructions for fishermen can be found in tourist brochures. In streams and streams, the fishing season is open from May 1 to August 31, in the sea - all year round.

When traveling, you should not forget about the local changing climate. On vacation, it won’t hurt to have warm clothes and several pairs of comfortable shoes for moving through mountainous terrain and trips to the sea.

Vaccination before travel is not required. Telephone emergency service — 112.

Visa information

To obtain a visa, you must contact the consular department of the Danish Embassy in Moscow at the address: Prechistensky Lane, 9.

Anyone wishing to obtain a visa must provide a visa application form, 2 photographs, a foreign passport (valid for at least three months after the expiration of the requested visa) with a copy, a national passport with a copy, confirmation of a hotel reservation, a certificate from the place of work (study), an insurance policy covering everything risks (the amount of insurance coverage should not be less than 30,000 €), a bank account statement or travel checks (at the rate of 50 € for each day of stay).

More information about the package of documents can be found at the consular section on weekdays from 9:00 to 16:00.

The Faroe Islands are considered part of Europe, but many do not even know exactly where they are. In Russia, the archipelago attracts attention on those rare occasions when the Russian national football team plays the Faroe Islands in World Cup or European Championship qualifiers.

Today, 50 thousand people live on the archipelago, consisting of 18 volcanic islands with a total area of ​​about 1,400 square kilometers. The indigenous inhabitants of the island, about 98% of the population, speak one of the rarest languages ​​in Europe - Faroese, related to Icelandic and Old Norse. The second official language in the Faroe Islands is Danish.

Until the end of the 19th century, sheep farming, which gave the islands their name, played a major role in the life of the Faroese, and sheep's wool was the main commodity in trade with Denmark. However, for more than a century, the main income for the inhabitants of the archipelago, located in the very center of the fish-rich Atlantic region, has been provided by fishing. Locally harvested cod, salmon and halibut account for more than 99% of local exports.

This is not surprising if we remember that, according to the classic of Faroese literature William Heineson, the capital of Faroe, the city of Tórshavn, is, in fact, the famous “navel of the earth.” For the Faroese, Tórshavn is one of the most important places on earth, the very place where everything happens.

45 thousand Faroese believe that the archipelago of 18 islands in North Atlantic is the legendary Atlantis, which plunged into the depths of the ocean many centuries ago. The exclusivity is evident.

Ancient history of the Faroe Islands

Modern Faroese are descendants of the Vikings, who at the end of the 9th century. they did not want to put up with the Zheto rule of King Harald Fairhair and sailed here, where previously brave sailors had visited only on visits. In the 11th century Christianity was brought here from Norway and for a short period the islands were subjugated to the Norwegian king Olaf Tryggvason. After his death, Norway's power over the islands was purely nominal, and in 1380, when the Danish-Norwegian Union was concluded, the islands became dual subordinates. When Norway dissolved the union in 1814, the islands remained with Denmark, which became the sole owner of the islands. The inhabitants of the islands have Scandinavian roots, and the Faroese language is a descendant of the Old Norse language.

In the period between 700 and 800, immigrants from Scotland settled on the island, but left the islands at the beginning of the 9th century, when the Viking campaigns reached the Faroe Islands. Starting from the 9th century, the Faroe Islands became a link in the system of transport communications between Scandinavia and the Viking colonies, which were located in Iceland, Greenland and, for a short time, North America.

Faroe Islands in World War II. British occupation of the Faroe Islands

The strategic position of the Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic prompted British Prime Minister Winston Churchill to decide on April 11, 1940 to station the cruiser in the port of Tórshavn. The islands came under British military control in April 1940, during the Second World War, following the German invasion of Denmark. British occupation of the islands ended in September 1945. More than 8,000 British soldiers took part in the occupation.

Post-war history of the Faroe Islands

In September 1946, as a result of a closed plebiscite and vote, the Faroe Islands parliament announced the islands' secession from Denmark. This decision was ratified by parliament, which voted 12 votes in favor and 11 votes against. The island of Suduroy, the third largest in the entire group, announced that it remains part of Denmark. The Danish government declared the results of the plebiscite invalid and temporarily suspended the Faroese parliament. Another public opinion poll revealed a slight majority in favor of not secession from Denmark, and a parliamentary delegation was invited to Copenhagen for further negotiations.

In 1940 the Faroe Islands were occupied by the British fleet, and in 1948 the status quo was restored. An agreement was reached under which the Faroe Islands received limited sovereignty; the Danish government continued to be in charge of the islands' foreign policy. 2 representatives of the islands permanently serve in the Danish Parliament. The Faroese, although they do not particularly feel the Danish “oppression”, do not let the metropolis forget about them. For example, the islands are not formally part of the European Union, having rejected this proposal in a referendum. National clothing and customs largely preserve the era of the sagas, when people believed in the stern Odin, the strong Thor and the gentle Freya. Monuments here often date back to the early Middle Ages. Tórshavn - in the capital of the Faroe Islands, it is worth taking a look at the Skansapakkusio building, the Munkastovan monastery, the Historical Museum and the Listaskalin art gallery.

Kirkuber - Among the town's attractions are Magnus Cathedral, St Olav's Church, the ruins of St Brendan's Church and Roykstovan Farm. Saksun is a small village in the vicinity of which there are lakes Pollur and Saksunarvatn, Saskun Church and the Duvuvarur farm.

The Faroe Islands have been declared a nuclear-weapon-free zone since 1984, but the islands are home to a Danish naval base and a NATO radar complex.

To enter the Faroe Islands, Russian citizens require a visa issued by the consular department of the Danish Embassy.

The Faroes are a beautiful and rich country, with its own wonderful culture, in addition, the people here are closely connected with each other, now family and friendships mean a lot to the Faroese.

The difference between Danish and Faroese society is not obvious at first, but it is there. So, for example, in Denmark people value their employment first of all; there it is customary to call first, notifying you of your arrival, and even agree on the time of the visit. In the Faroes, friends and acquaintances easily, without ceremony, drop in to see each other just to say hello. So I think the main difference is that Faroese people make time for each other to be together.

In the Scandinavian countries there is the “Jante Lofven Code”: no one has the right to put themselves above society, the most important rule of the Code is “don’t think that you are anything of yourself. And everyone obeys this unwritten rule, from the monarch to the mere mortal. There is something similar in the Faroe Islands. In this regard, things with public morality here are exactly the same as elsewhere in Scandinavia.

At the end of 2006, Faroese society was gripped by debate over the rights of sexual minorities to protection from persecution. Most local politicians opposed the adoption of the anti-discrimination law, considering it contrary to the Christian tenets on which Faroese society is based. Another significant event last year in the life of the Faroese was that the local ethics council banned the screening of the famous film “The Da Vinci Code”, considering the interpretation of the role of Christ blasphemous and contrary to the canons of Christianity.

The Faroe Islands are a very religious country, a religious society. But it should be borne in mind that in all religions there are radical movements, and there are such Christian extremists in the Faroe Islands. Of course, extremists are extremely negative about the law protecting people of non-traditional sexual orientation, but they do not express the opinion of the majority of the Faroese population. In Denmark, by the way, there are also ultra-Orthodox Christians, united in the Internal Mission organization; they are very similar to the Orthodox from the Faroe Islands, but in both cases we are not talking about the majority of the population. In fact, the Faroe Islands are a very open society; it may seem closed, closed in on itself, but in fact it is not. The people here are very friendly, generous and hospitable. And foreigners arriving in the Faroe Islands as tourists or moving here for permanent residence can confirm that they are received very kindly here. After all, the Faroese are sympathetic to everything new that comes into their lives.

The Faroe Islands (Faeroerne, Faroe Islands) are a possession of Denmark, occupying over 20 islands in the northeast Atlantic Ocean in the Norwegian Sea. The total area of ​​ownership is 1.4 thousand sq. km. 48.2 thousand people live on the islands, mainly Faroese. They have their own language, which is the official language here along with Danish. The Faroes have their own coat of arms and flag and enjoy internal autonomy, although they are subordinate to Denmark. Administrative center Faroe Islands - the city of Tórshavn with a population of 15.6 thousand people. The islands are divided into 8 regions.
Faroe islands - volcanic origin, up to 882 m high. The shores of the islands are heavily indented by fjords. The Faroese landscape is characterized by meadows, peat bogs, and heathlands. Faroe rocks - favorite place for bird markets.
The economic potential of the Faroe Islands is based on 260 fishing vessels. The fishing industry employs the majority of able-bodied Faroese. The second most important sector of the economy is livestock farming, specializing in raising sheep and producing milk. Local transportation is carried out by road and by sea transport. In terms of living standards, the Faroe Islands are among the most prosperous countries in the world; they are reluctant to welcome visitors here, but tourists are shown hospitality..

The name means "Sheep Islands" in the local dialect. Sheep farming is very important for local residents, and wonderful blankets, sweaters and other products are made here from high-quality wool. Tourist season falls during the warm summer months from June to September. The Faroe Islands calendar has about two dozen official holidays. On June 28 and 29, the country celebrates National Olavsok Day, named after St. Olav, who preached Christianity in ancient Scandinavia. For two holidays in the capital of the Faroe Islands - Tórshavn - exhibitions, sports competitions, horse races, festive masses and noisy folklore performances are held. Around the same time, the Westanstevna festival, which is almost identical in program, takes place in the Western Faroe Islands.

Mainly eco-tourists come here. Skalafjörður, a picturesque fjord considered the best harbor in the Faroe Islands, will be of interest to lovers of hiking. Mykines is a tiny island in the northwest of the archipelago. Knukur Peak, Steyiskogurin Rock Garden and Holmgyogv Canyon are located here.

The islands, for the most part, are treeless due to constant strong winds, although conifers, maple, and mountain ash are sometimes found. Mosses and lichens are common.

Vegetation mainly consists of meadows, peat bogs and heathland.

The Faroe Islands have a climate similar to the south South America and Tierra del Fuego, from there several species of Nothofagus (Antarctic, birch) and Maytenus Magellanicus were introduced.

Hatchet(lat. Lunda cirrhata), or Long-crested puffins (lat. Fratercula cirrhata) is a bird of the auk family. It has a bright appearance - a powerful red-orange beak, flattened on the sides, white cheeks, and tufts of long yellowish feathers behind the eyes. The color of the plumage is monotonous, black and brown. Paws are red.

They live on the Asian and American coasts of the northern part Pacific Ocean, south to California. Most often they can be seen flying along coastline close to the surface of the water in search of food for their young

The fauna of the Faroe Islands is quite diverse. Of primary interest are the colonies of Arctic birds and the waters rich in fish (herring, halibut, cod) and sea animals that wash the Faroe Islands. The island is also home to the Faroese breed of sheep.

Colonies of guillemots settle on the Faroese cliffs.

There are harp seal rookeries on the Faroe Islands.

In the Faroes, the Faroese crown (FrK) and the Danish crown (DKK) are in circulation. Faroese banknotes, like Danish ones, are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 500 and 1000 kroner. The islands do not mint their own coins. There are Danish coins in denominations of 25 and 50 øre (1 øre = 1/100 kroner), 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 kroner.

The exchange rate of the Danish krone to the US dollar was - 5.560 (2008), 5.9468 (2006), 5.9969 (2005), 5.9911 (2004), 6.5877 (2003), 7.8947 (2002).

Up to 15% of Faroese GDP comes from subsidies to the metropolis.

The main sectors of the Faroese economy are fishing, sheep breeding, and light industry. The main products exported are fresh, frozen, filleted and salted fish, gelatin made from fish swim bladders, lamb, sheepskin, astrakhan fur and wool products, eider down and petrel down. About 2% of the land is cultivated.

Until the mid-19th century, sheep farming was the main source of income for the Faroes. Currently, the sheep population numbers about 80 thousand heads.

Like these ones Interesting Facts writes Klara Kulikova about the Faroe Islands:

I've been to the Faroe Islands probably ten times. I have many acquaintances there, whom I am glad to see, regardless of the presence or absence of business. Acquaintances who, over the years of communication, have turned into friends.

I really like this place. First of all, I like my people. Contrary to the hysterics of whale defenders, the people there are very open, pure and virginal in many matters.

1. In the Faroe Islands, houses are not generally locked. The last time, instead of a hotel, we rented the top floor of a house: the owners lived on the ground floor, their daughter on the first floor, we took the top floor with three bedrooms, a separate bathroom and toilet. "Will we get the key?" – I asked the hostess. "No!" – she was quite surprised, why do you need him?

“You really don’t lock houses?” – I asked my old friend Birgir. “Why lock them?” - he, in turn, was surprised, - “I have five children, they always lose their keys, so we don’t lock our house!”

2. There is virtually no crime in the Faroe Islands. During the Cold War, the United States stationed on the islands military base. In recent years it has been mothballed: only a few people were constantly there. Now, on the territory of the base there is a prison, where short term place local violators: usually for drunk driving. At the time of our arrival, there were already four people in the “prison”, the names of all four are known to all the islands. If you throw a bicycle on the side of the road, no one will touch it. If you drop your wallet on the road, it will be returned to you with a 99.9% probability, or it will be left in the nearest cafe/shop/shopping center.

3. On the question of whale hunting: the Faroese continue to live the same way they lived five hundred years ago. Civilization has changed them little. In addition to whale hunting, the Faroese slaughter their own sheep (a lot of people keep sheep). It's hard for a European to believe, but Faroese schools teach some pretty shocking science lessons.

A week before our arrival, Birgir’s twelve-year-old daughter brought a live sheep to class, killed it right in the classroom with a special air pistol, and gutted it in the classroom. The rest of the children helped her as best they could: in the Faroes this would not shock anyone.

“But why, Birgir?”– I asked in bewilderment. "What do you mean why? Not all children know how to do this now, she just taught them!”

4. Sheep's head is an exquisite delicacy in the Faroes. “What’s in it?” – I asked another friend of mine. "Like what? Eyes, brains, cheeks! Yes all!"
Frozen sheep's heads can be bought in the central supermarket of Torshavn (called SMS) and also in some small shops. For convenience, the head is sawn lengthwise, frozen and packaged in a vacuum bag.

5. To your great surprise, the Faroe Islands have a pretty good selection of products (unlike “hungry” Norway, whose supermarkets make you cry). Most of the products are frozen (and made in Denmark), but they are available. On sale there is delicious venison, a lot of seafood, as well as fresh locally caught fish. Smoked salmon is also locally produced and is also absolutely incomparable: I can say with full responsibility that neither in Ukraine nor in Russia they know how to make such fish.

6. In the Faroe Islands (unlike Denmark, to which the Faroe Islands de jure belong) there are very strict requirements for the sale of alcohol. There is only one store in Torshavn that sells beer of “regular” strength, as well as wine and vodka. Everything is very expensive. For some inexplicable reason, beer is only sold in multiples of six. That is, six, twelve, eighteen and so on cans or bottles. The limit applies to both packages (which actually contain six cans or bottles) and individual cans/bottles.

The question “if there are only five bottles left, won’t you sell them?” puts store workers into a specific stupor. Nobody seems to think about it there.

All other stores (including the largest supermarket in the Faroe Islands) sell light beer with an alcohol content of no more than 0.2%&

A similar situation with alcohol in the Faroe Islands was initiated back in the thirties of the last century. Alcohol was sold uncontrollably, many fishermen drank themselves to death, but in the thirties, men carelessly gave women the right to vote in elections.
The first (!) thing the women did after receiving their license was to push through a ban on the sale of alcohol on the islands. Complete ban.
The men tried to protest, but it was too late: the fisherwomen grabbed their husbands by the balls.

The return of alcohol to any kind of sale continued for decades. And it continues to this day.

7. At the same time, the Faroe Islands produce a very good and very specific aqua vitamin, which is called HAVIÐ, with a strength of as much as 50.1 degrees. Such a fortress is the result of a marketing strategy, the essence of which is unknown to me.

8. Also, despite the prohibitions and restrictions, the Faroe Islands produce very good beer, and the “Black Sheep” variety is generally beyond praise.

9. One of my acquaintances in the Faroe Islands created an ideal business: he collected waste from fish processing plants (mainly pollock heads), then dried it, pressed it and sold it to poor countries in Africa. Why an ideal business? The raw materials are free, the market is huge, the idea is super, what can I say.

10. The Danish krone is in use in the Faroe Islands, but the piquancy of the situation is that the Faroe Islands have their own Danish krone, with a very special design. From my own experience, I can say that I have never held more beautiful money in my hands.

Tindholmur Island- one of the islands of the Faroe archipelago. Area - 6500 sq.m. The highest point is 262 m. Each of the small peaks has its own name: Ytsti, Arni, Lítli, Breiði, and Bogdi.

The island is uninhabited, but archaeological evidence suggests that people once lived on it.

Every year, the Faroe Islands catch and kill whales and pilot whales (black dolphins) in a traditional hunt known as "Grindadrap". The sea in the Faroe Islands becomes as bloody and creepy as the cruel rite itself.

Faroese men often say that being involved in whaling makes them feel like real Faroese. Despite criticism from animal rights groups and the International Whaling Commission, the Faroe Islands population continues to kill thousands of whales year after year.

A mob of hunters drive whales and dolphins into a bay and then snap their spines, leaving the animals to slowly bleed to death. According to PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), some whales struggle in agony for several hours. “Whales and dolphins are very intelligent creatures and they are capable of feeling pain and fear, just like us. They are forced to watch their relatives die in the blood-red water, awaiting their own death.”

Hundreds of pilot whales or black dolphins, as they are sometimes called, become victims of the Faroese every year. I don’t even know what definition to give to this bloody process... Some say, killing whales for the population of the Faroe Islands - a national pastime, others - a tradition, others - a vital necessity. I’ll probably focus on the tradition - don’t judge, as they say, lest you be judged. This event is on a national scale. On a certain day, I don’t know which one, apparently, when the supply of meat runs out, Faroese men slaughter pilot whales, and women and children gather with pleasure on the shore and look at this picture. In short, the entire population is involved - no one is indifferent.

Whaling has existed on the “remains of Atlantis” since at least the tenth century, and it is not regulated by the International Whale Commission, but by the Faroese authorities, due to - quoting Wikipedia - “the presence of disagreements over the competence of the commission in relation to small cetaceans.” I don’t know how to put it easier, because I didn’t really understand the meaning myself. It turns out that traditional, with a centuries-old history Pilot whale massacre in the Faroe Islands smoothly developed into some semblance public holiday. At least, according to eyewitness accounts, this is exactly what it looks like.

I don't know how to judge all this. On the one hand, it’s scary, creepy, disgusting, low and vile, and on the other hand, surely somewhere in Africa there are tribes in which people devour each other, but no one condemns them: well, there is, and there is, what can you do if This is their way of life.

Here's what eyewitnesses write:

Killing whales is a national pastime

In order to feel like men and breadwinners, the Faroese carried out mass slaughter of whales. The entire population took part in this. Men catch, and women and children watch and support.

Unfortunately, this cruel tradition continues to this day. But now whale hunting has become something of a national holiday on the islands. Not for the sake of food, but for the sake of blood, thirst for profit and satisfaction of their barbaric instincts.

They hunt here for pilot whales or, as they are also called, black dolphins. Pilot whales swim in a flock that blindly follows the leader. Once you lure him alone, everyone else will follow him to certain death. The whales are driven into shallow waters in special bays. They surround them with boats and drive them to the shore with stones, sticks, and harpoons.

The first time I learned about this “holiday” was soon after arriving in the Faroe Islands. Once I came to pick up my children from kindergarten and saw the excited faces of the teachers. Happiness and satisfaction were written on them. Gesturing excitedly, they said that today they went to watch how dolphins were slaughtered and took all the children there. They liked everything very much, and the children were absolutely delighted.

After that, the children in the kindergarten spent the whole week drawing pictures about how dolphins are slaughtered, how they are pulled out, killed, and pools of blood. The more terrible the picture, the more honorable place it was on the wall. The exhibition of children's works hung for a long time and was frightening in its appearance.
My children suffered deep psychological stress. One day they grew up and realized that death exists and walks nearby in the form of a Faroese man with a harpoon and a spear.

No one asked permission if it was possible to take the children to look at this horror. They were simply taken away because it was cool. Because many Faroese sincerely believe that the slaughter of whales is one of the most beautiful spectacles. And in the future, children were taken to this slaughterhouse more than once, although they were warned that they could not be taken there. But the teachers forgot everything at the moment of excitement from the upcoming action.

Through the eyes of an eyewitness

I do not know of a more barbaric spectacle that occurs with the approval of the government and with the participation of almost all people, young and old. This is real horror.

As soon as a pod of whales approaches the island, the Faroese drop everything and run to fish. People learn from the radio, from mobile phones and just from each other - today they are beating whales.
They run as fast as they can, just to be on time, just not to be late. They run with crazy eyes. Everyone is running, even pregnant women and young mothers, who grab their children, put them in strollers and also rush to the shore. Other children are dangling underfoot, they are being knocked down, now there is no time for children - whales are being beaten. Kindergartens and schools are brought there so that everyone can participate in the process and look at the bloody mess. How innocent animals are killed.

Just a couple of hours ago, kind and sweet Faroese people become wild animals. They make sure that the whales cannot escape from the shallow waters. With wild faces they throw stones at them, hit them with spears and knock them into a chaotic mass. Wounded animals become frantic and rush around in search of freedom. People rush towards them from the shore and finish them off right in the water. The whales, which are still alive, are stuck with hooks and sticks and dragged to the shore, where their throats are cut.

Women and children support the men, running through pools of blood. There is blood all around. The Sea of ​​Blood is completely red. The entire coast is covered in the blood of innocent victims of Faroese cruelty. People's faces, hands, clothes - everything is covered in blood. Satisfaction on faces, smiles, joy, pleasure, buzz - this whole range of feelings can be read on all faces.

Thirst for blood plus thirst for freebies. After all the whales are dead, the cutting of prey begins right on the shore. Children are very often involved in the process. They are allowed to tinker with the intestines and entrails. Shops in the Faroe Islands are overwhelmed various types meat, but whale meat is not sold there. Because it is given out for free at this slaughterhouse. Lists of those interested are created in advance on a special website. Why go to the store and pay money when you can get meat and satisfy your barbaric instincts.

On this moment There is no need to slaughter whales. Faroese people do not die of hunger. The supply of food to the islands is well established, but, as the Faroese themselves explain, this is their sport. Yes, that’s exactly what they call this nightmare with pride and approval.

Photographs of the killing of whales are placed in newspapers, in advertising brochures for tourists, devoting entire spreads to this and publishing the most horrific scenes. They make videos about the killing of whales and then watch them with pleasure on long winter evenings, eating whale meat and lard at the same time. There is no regret, only delight that everything will happen again soon.

I would like to mention that this is not the only murder in which children are involved in the Faroes. Sheep farming is very common on the islands, and the slaughter of sheep is a family event in which all family members also participate. In front of the children, the sheep is cut and butchered, and the children then fiddle with the intestines with a smile on their faces. They take video and photographs of the process. For a long time, a book with a detailed photo report about this was very popular in the Faroe Islands. It happens that they do similar things in kindergartens. Probably so that those children whose parents do not have sheep do not feel deprived. They bring a sheep or some kind of sea animal to the kindergarten and butcher it together with the children. The children are given trophies - guts and so on. Once on the embankment, sailors set up a small open aquarium. Various sea animals swam in containers filled with water - crabs, starfish, fish, octopuses and others. They could be taken out and touched. Some children watched the animals with interest, while others simply picked them up and tore off their limbs, enjoying how they writhed and tried to escape. Parents looked at their children with approval and smiles, without making any comments to them and fully supporting these tortures. My children clung to me in horror and asked: “Mom, is this really possible?” Why don’t parents tell their children not to torture animals?” What could they answer to this?

Dolphins have long been considered the patrons of shipping and sailors. All sailors know the sign - before a storm, dolphins try to go to the depths and not appear on the surface, which sailors regard as a warning of an impending storm.

-

Where does such unimaginable inquisitorial cruelty towards these creatures come from among the inhabitants of the Faroe Islands?

In fairness, it must be said that in modern world not everyone shares the romantic view of dolphins, considering them dangerous wild animals.

However, the final point in dolphin research has not yet been reached, and no matter what conclusion scientists come to, people have no right to the bloody barbarity occurring in the Faroe Islands.

Many centuries ago, during the times of the Vikings, the ancestors of the islanders lived in completely different conditions and different customs - these were cruel times of wars, deprivation, lack of food, and the terrible custom that arose in those days may have been a forced way for their survival.

But now, in modern conditions, with supermarkets littered with food, this barbaric “diet” of the Faroese is blasphemous.

“True Faroese” should remember that “cruelty cannot be the companion of valor” (Cervantes).

As the descendants of the brave Normans, it does not suit the Faroese to assert themselves through the bloody massacre of defenseless animals; a much more courageous act would be to decide to stop this bloody massacre as historically outdated and immoral. What do you think?

The Faroe Islands are an autonomous region and are an island group in the North Atlantic Ocean, located between and Scotland. Legally they belong, but since the second half of the 20th century they have been independent, transferring powers only in terms of defense, foreign policy, police and justice. Area 1,395 sq. km, population about 51 thousand people, capital Tórshavn.

The Faroe Islands are an island group 400 km north of Scotland and 420 km southeast of Iceland. There are a total of 18 islands in the archipelago, 17 of which are inhabited. Most large island Streymoy (373.5 sq. km).

The economic zone from the coast is 200 nautical miles. The most high point island group of volcanic origin - the peak of Slattaratindur (Esturoy Island), whose height is 882 m. The coasts of the islands are indented and consist of numerous fjords. The islands have constant strong winds, so there are no forests here, although there are plantations of coniferous trees, ash and maple.

The climate on the islands is temperate maritime - winter and summer are cool and humid. In the coldest January the temperature is around zero, in warm July - up to +17 °C. Precipitation, mainly rain, falls up to 2,000 mm per year. Thanks to the warm current, the temperature of coastal waters stays at +10 ° C all year round, providing conditions for the life of numerous species of fish and plankton.