# Reykjavík

> capital and largest city in Iceland

**Wikidata**: [Q1764](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1764)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reykjavík)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/reykjavik

## Summary

Reykjavík is located in Reykjavíkurborg[1] and is the capital of Iceland[2]. It was established on January 1, 1786. The official language is Icelandic. The head of government is Heiða Björg Hilmisdóttir[3]. As of 2025, the population is 139k[4]. The city covers an area of 244 and has an elevation of 8.

## Summary
Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, serving as the primary governing city of the country. It is a significant cultural, economic, and political hub, known for its vibrant arts scene, technological advancements, and role as a center for international diplomacy.

## Key Facts
- **Capital city of Iceland**: Reykjavík is the national capital and the largest city in Iceland, serving as the primary governing city of the country.
- **Port city**: It is a port city with a significant maritime history and infrastructure.
- **Population**: As of 2025, the population of Reykjavík is estimated to be 138,772, with demographic balance as the determination method.
- **Area**: The city covers an area of 244 square kilometers.
- **Founded**: Reykjavík was officially founded in 1786.
- **Memberships**: Reykjavík is a member of the Creative Cities Network (City of Literature since 2011) and the International Cities of Refuge Network.
- **Postal codes**: The postal codes for Reykjavík range from 101 to 155.
- **Coordinates**: The city is located at latitude 64.1475 and longitude -21.935.
- **Official language**: The official language of Reykjavík is Icelandic.
- **Timezone**: Reykjavík operates on the UTC±00:00 timezone.
- **Awards**: Reykjavík has received the European Capital of Culture award in 2000.
- **Ownership**: Orkuveita Reykjavíkur, an energy and utility company, is owned by Reykjavík.
- **Key people**: Reykjavík is home to the Imagine Peace Tower, a memorial to John Lennon.

## FAQs
- **What makes Reykjavík unique as a capital city?** Reykjavík stands out as Iceland's capital due to its role in governance, cultural significance, and economic leadership, serving as a hub for both domestic and international activities.
- **How has Reykjavík's population changed over time?** The population of Reykjavík has grown significantly, with estimates ranging from 6,667 in 1901 to 138,772 in 2025, reflecting Iceland's overall population trends.
- **What are some notable cultural institutions in Reykjavík?** Reykjavík is home to several notable cultural institutions, including the Reykjavík Art Museum, Reykjavík Cathedral, and the Reykjavík City Theatre, which contribute to the city's vibrant arts scene.
- **What is the significance of Reykjavík's membership in the Creative Cities Network?** Reykjavík's membership in the Creative Cities Network, particularly as a City of Literature, highlights its commitment to fostering creativity and cultural exchange.
- **How does Reykjavík contribute to Iceland's technological advancements?** Reykjavík plays a crucial role in Iceland's technological advancements, hosting key institutions like deCODE genetics and CCP Games, which are at the forefront of biopharmaceutical and video game development.

## Why It Matters
Reykjavík is of significant importance as the capital of Iceland, serving as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. Its strategic location and robust infrastructure make it a key player in international diplomacy, particularly in the North Atlantic region. The city's commitment to innovation and sustainability, as evidenced by its membership in the Creative Cities Network and its role in technological advancements, underscores its importance in shaping Iceland's future. Additionally, Reykjavík's status as a port city and its contributions to maritime history and infrastructure further cement its relevance on the global stage.

## Notable For
- **European Capital of Culture**: Reykjavík was awarded the European Capital of Culture in 2000, recognizing its cultural significance and contributions to the arts.
- **Creative Cities Network Membership**: As a City of Literature, Reykjavík is a member of the Creative Cities Network, highlighting its commitment to fostering creativity and cultural exchange.
- **Technological Hub**: Reykjavík is home to key technological institutions like deCODE genetics and CCP Games, which are at the forefront of biopharmaceutical and video game development.
- **International Cities of Refuge Network Membership**: Reykjavík's membership in the International Cities of Refuge Network underscores its role in providing refuge and support to individuals in need.
- **Cultural Institutions**: The city hosts numerous cultural institutions, including the Reykjavík Art Museum, Reykjavík Cathedral, and the Reykjavík City Theatre, contributing to its vibrant arts scene.

## Body
### History
Reykjavík was officially founded in 1786 and has since evolved into the capital and largest city of Iceland. The city's strategic location and robust infrastructure have made it a key player in Iceland's governance and economic development. Over the years, Reykjavík has undergone significant population growth, with estimates ranging from 6,667 in 1901 to 138,772 in 2025, reflecting Iceland's overall population trends.

### Geography
Reykjavík covers an area of 244 square kilometers and is located at latitude 64.1475 and longitude -21.935. The city is situated in the Reykjavíkurborg municipality and is part of the Capital Region of Iceland. Its strategic location and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean have made it a significant port city with a rich maritime history.

### Demographics
As of 2025, the population of Reykjavík is estimated to be 138,772, with demographic balance as the determination method. The city's population has grown significantly over the years, with estimates ranging from 6,667 in 1901 to 138,772 in 2025, reflecting Iceland's overall population trends.

### Economy
Reykjavík serves as the economic hub of Iceland, hosting key institutions and companies that contribute to the city's technological advancements and economic growth. The city is home to deCODE genetics, a biopharmaceutical company, and CCP Games, a video game developer and publisher, which are at the forefront of their respective industries.

### Culture
Reykjavík is renowned for its vibrant arts scene and cultural institutions. The city hosts the Reykjavík Art Museum, the largest visual art institution in Iceland, and the Reykjavík Cathedral, a significant religious landmark. Additionally, the Reykjavík City Theatre contributes to the city's cultural richness, offering a diverse range of performances and events.

### Education
Reykjavík is home to several educational institutions, including the University of Iceland and Reykjavík University. These institutions play a crucial role in shaping the city's intellectual landscape and contributing to Iceland's educational advancements.

### Transportation
Reykjavík is well-connected to the rest of Iceland and the world through its robust transportation infrastructure. The city is served by Reykjavík Airport, the main domestic airport, and is connected to other cities and towns via a network of roads and public transportation.

### Sports
Reykjavík has a rich sports culture, with numerous clubs and teams representing the city in various sports. The KR Reykjavík sports club, for example, is a prominent institution in Icelandic sports, with departments in football, basketball, and handball.

### Government
Reykjavík serves as the political center of Iceland, hosting key government institutions and agencies. The city is home to the Althing, the unicameral parliament of Iceland, and the Supreme Court of Iceland, the final court of appeal in the judiciary of Iceland.

### International Relations
Reykjavík plays a significant role in international diplomacy, particularly in the North Atlantic region. The city is home to numerous embassies and diplomatic missions, reflecting its importance in global affairs. Additionally, Reykjavík has established twinning relationships with cities around the world, fostering cultural and economic exchanges.

### Environmental Initiatives
Reykjavík is committed to sustainability and environmental conservation, with numerous initiatives aimed at reducing the city's carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices. The city is home to the Reykjavík Botanic Garden, a significant botanical institution, and is involved in projects like CarbFix, which focuses on carbon capture and storage.

### Notable Events
Reykjavík hosts numerous cultural and sporting events throughout the year, attracting visitors from around the world. The Reykjavík Pride festival, for example, is a significant LGBTQ+ event that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. Additionally, the Reykjavík International Film Festival showcases the best in international cinema, further enhancing the city's cultural profile.

### Community and Social Services
Reykjavík is home to numerous community organizations and social services that support the city's residents. The Icelandic Society for the Protection of Birds, for example, is a non-governmental organization that works to protect and conserve Iceland's avian species. Additionally, the Reykjavík Mosque serves as a place of worship for the city's Muslim community.

### Technology and Innovation
Reykjavík is at the forefront of technological advancements, with numerous institutions and companies contributing to the city's innovation ecosystem. The city is home to deCODE genetics, a biopharmaceutical company, and CCP Games, a video game developer and publisher, which are at the forefront of their respective industries. Additionally, Reykjavík is involved in projects like CarbFix, which focuses on carbon capture and storage, reflecting the city's commitment to sustainability and innovation.

### Arts and Entertainment
Reykjavík is renowned for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene, with numerous cultural institutions and venues contributing to the city's cultural richness. The Reykjavík Art Museum, for example, is the largest visual art institution in Iceland, showcasing a diverse range of exhibitions and events. Additionally, the Reykjavík City Theatre offers a diverse range of performances and events, further enhancing the city's cultural profile.

### Education and Research
Reykjavík is home to several educational institutions and research centers that contribute to the city's intellectual landscape. The University of Iceland, for example, is a public university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Additionally, the Reykjavík University is a significant educational institution that contributes to the city's intellectual landscape.

### Sports and Recreation
Reykjavík has a rich sports culture, with numerous clubs and teams representing the city in various sports. The KR Reykjavík sports club, for example, is a prominent institution in Icelandic sports, with departments in football, basketball, and handball. Additionally, the Reykjavík Marathon is a significant sporting event that attracts participants from around the world.

### Tourism
Reykjavík is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world with its unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant arts scene. The city is home to numerous attractions and landmarks, including the Reykjavík Art Museum, the Reykjavík Cathedral, and the Reykjavík City Theatre. Additionally, the Reykjavík International Film Festival showcases the best in international cinema, further enhancing the city's cultural profile.

### Business and Industry
Reykjavík is a significant economic hub, with numerous businesses and industries contributing to the city's economic growth. The city is home to deCODE genetics, a biopharmaceutical company, and CCP Games, a video game developer and publisher, which are at the forefront of their respective industries. Additionally, Reykjavík is involved in projects like CarbFix, which focuses on carbon capture and storage, reflecting the city's commitment to sustainability and innovation.

### Social Services and Welfare
Reykjavík is home to numerous social services and welfare organizations that support the city's residents. The Icelandic Society for the Protection of Birds, for example, is a non-governmental organization that works to protect and conserve Iceland's avian species. Additionally, the Reykjavík Mosque serves as a place of worship for the city's Muslim community.

### Environmental Conservation
Reykjavík is committed to environmental conservation, with numerous initiatives aimed at protecting and preserving the city's natural resources. The Reykjavík Botanic Garden, for example, is a significant botanical institution that contributes to the city's environmental conservation efforts. Additionally, the Reykjavík Maritime Museum showcases the city's rich maritime history and contributes to its environmental conservation initiatives.

### Cultural Heritage
Reykjavík has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical landmarks and cultural institutions contributing to the city's cultural richness. The Reykjavík Art Museum, for example, is the largest visual art institution in Iceland, showcasing a diverse range of exhibitions and events. Additionally, the Reykjavík Cathedral is a significant religious landmark that contributes to the city's cultural heritage.

### International Cooperation
Reykjavík plays a significant role in international cooperation, with numerous organizations and initiatives aimed at fostering global partnerships and exchanges. The International Cities of Refuge Network, for example, is an organization that works to provide refuge and support to individuals in need. Additionally, the Reykjavík University is involved in numerous international cooperation initiatives, reflecting the city's commitment to global partnerships and exchanges.

### Technology and Innovation
Reykjavík is at the forefront of technological advancements, with numerous institutions and companies contributing to the city's innovation ecosystem. The city is home to deCODE genetics, a biopharmaceutical company, and CCP Games, a video game developer and publisher, which are at the forefront of their respective industries. Additionally, Reykjavík is involved in projects like CarbFix, which focuses on carbon capture and storage, reflecting the city's commitment to sustainability and innovation.

### Arts and Entertainment
Reykjavík is renowned for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene, with numerous cultural institutions and venues contributing to the city's cultural richness. The Reykjavík Art Museum, for example, is the largest visual art institution in Iceland, showcasing a diverse range of exhibitions and events. Additionally, the Reykjavík City Theatre offers a diverse range of performances and events, further enhancing the city's cultural profile.

### Education and Research
Reykjavík is home to several educational institutions and research centers that contribute to the city's intellectual landscape. The University of Iceland, for example, is a public university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Additionally, the Reykjavík University is a significant educational institution that contributes to the city's intellectual landscape.

### Sports and Recreation
Reykjavík has a rich sports culture, with numerous clubs and teams representing the city in various sports. The KR Reykjavík sports club, for example, is a prominent institution in Icelandic sports, with departments in football, basketball, and handball. Additionally, the Reykjavík Marathon is a significant sporting event that attracts participants from around the world.

### Tourism
Reykjavík is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world with its unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant arts scene. The city is home to numerous attractions and landmarks, including the Reykjavík Art Museum, the Reykjavík Cathedral, and the Reykjavík City Theatre. Additionally, the Reykjavík International Film Festival showcases the best in international cinema, further enhancing the city's cultural profile.

### Business and Industry
Reykjavík is a significant economic hub, with numerous businesses and industries contributing to the city's economic growth. The city is home to deCODE genetics, a biopharmaceutical company, and CCP Games, a video game developer and publisher, which are at the forefront of their respective industries. Additionally, Reykjavík is involved in projects like CarbFix, which focuses on carbon capture and storage, reflecting the city's commitment to sustainability and innovation.

### Social Services and Welfare
Reykjavík is home to numerous social services and welfare organizations that support the city's residents. The Icelandic Society for the Protection of Birds, for example, is a non-governmental organization that works to protect and conserve Iceland's avian species. Additionally, the Reykjavík Mosque serves as a place of worship for the city's Muslim community.

### Environmental Conservation
Reykjavík is committed to environmental conservation, with numerous initiatives aimed at protecting and preserving the city's natural resources. The Reykjavík Botanic Garden, for example, is a significant botanical institution that contributes to the city's environmental conservation efforts. Additionally, the Reykjavík Maritime Museum showcases the city's rich maritime history and contributes to its environmental conservation initiatives.

### Cultural Heritage
Reykjavík has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical landmarks and cultural institutions contributing to the city's cultural richness. The Reykjavík Art Museum, for example, is the largest visual art institution in Iceland, showcasing a diverse range of exhibitions and events. Additionally, the Reykjavík Cathedral is a significant religious landmark that contributes to the city's cultural heritage.

### International Cooperation
Reykjavík plays a significant role in international cooperation, with numerous organizations and initiatives aimed at fostering global partnerships and exchanges. The International Cities of Refuge Network, for example, is an organization that works to provide refuge and support to individuals in need. Additionally, the Reykjavík University is involved in numerous international cooperation initiatives, reflecting the city's commitment to global partnerships and exchanges.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.samband.is/sveitarfelogin/hofudborgarsvaedid/reykjavikurborg/)
2. [Source](https://www.icelandreview.com/news/meet-heida-bjorg-hilmisdottir-reykjaviks-new-mayor/?srsltid=AfmBOoqCQsalFfCqPRi5wD8to4cRrCG7glIt5kJu2dj0FZGfdC9Kz4TA)
3. archINFORM
4. [Source](https://reykjavik.is/sites/default/files/skjol_borgarstjornarfundur/180914_minnisblad_reykjavikurborg_endurskodun_stefnu_i_erlendum_samskiptum.pdf)
5. [Source](https://www.visir.is/g/20232419449d/reykvikingar-skipta-lviv-inn-fyrir-moskvu)
6. [Source](https://reykjavik.is/frettir/innilegar-mottokur-thegar-vinasamband-var-innsiglad-i-lviv)
7. [Source](https://city-adm.lviv.ua/news/city/lviv-international/296645-reikiavik-stolytsia-islandii-stav-mistom-partnerom-lvova-video)
8. [Source](http://www.ivilnius.lt/pazink/apie-vilniu/miestai-partneriai)
9. [Source](https://vilnius.lt/lt/tarptautinis-bendradarbiavimas/)
10. Open ISNI for Organizations
11. Virtual International Authority File
12. BnF authorities
13. MusicBrainz
14. OpenStreetMap
15. [Source](https://en.unesco.org/creative-cities/reykjavik)
16. [Source](https://icorn.org/city/reykjavik)
17. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
18. Czech National Authority Database
19. [Statistics Iceland](https://px.hagstofa.is/pxen/pxweb/en/Ibuar/Ibuar__mannfjoldi__2_byggdir__sveitarfelogeldra/MAN02120.px/)
20. [Statistics Iceland](https://px.hagstofa.is/pxen/pxweb/en/Ibuar/Ibuar__mannfjoldi__2_byggdir__sveitarfelogeldra/MAN02009.px/)
21. [Statistics Iceland](https://px.hagstofa.is/pxis/pxweb/is/Ibuar/Ibuar__mannfjoldi__2_byggdir__sveitarfelog/MAN02005.px/table/tableViewLayout2/)
22. [Source](http://cnig.gouv.fr/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CNT-PVM_r%C3%A9vis%C3%A9_2020-01-27-1.pdf)
23. [Source](https://vrttaal.net/taaladvies-taalkwestie/reykjavik)
24. GeoNames
25. [Source](https://service.unece.org/trade/locode/is.htm)
26. [Náttúrufræðistofnun](https://atlas.lmi.is/mapview/?application=markasja)
27. Aligned ISNI and Ringgold identifiers for institutions
28. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)
29. GF WordNet