This week we are traveling all the way up to almost the Arctic Circle, to an island that is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland. This island is full of magic and wonder that will show another side of the world and history you could never expect.
There is a city in Greenland in the southern portion of the island of Qassiarsuk. It is an amazing mix of all of the Nordic cultures from Denmark to Iceland. This tiny settlement holds a great looking glass into the life that many natives of Greenland would have lived.
Where To Stay
When you visit Qassiarsuk, there are only a few places to stay in the village. That is a small hostel within walking distance of all the sites. There is also the option of staying at the farms of local sheep farmers. There is no public transportation within the town, but you can catch a ride with a local farmer.
Norse Ruins Of Brattahlíð
As the first Viking settlement of Greenland, Brattahlíð was the home of the exiled leader, Erik the Red. It is amazing to see and experience the land the fabled Vikings would have set foot on when they arrived. The longhouse was recently reconstructed to resemble the sod walls and sealskin jackets that would have kept the Vikings warm.
Tjodhilde's Church
This Church was built by the first original settlers because of the wife of Erik the Red. She was newly converted to Christianity. This Church is the oldest Christian Church in North America. Today you can visit a church that could hold 30 Vikings for worship. This sod Church can still be visited to learn more about how the Church impacted the life of the original Vikings.
Leif Erikson Statue
The famous Viking Leif Erikson was the son of Erik the Red and grew up in the original Norse settlement of Greenland. He is said to have left Greenland for what is now Newfoundland, Canada, which was nearly half a millennia before Christopher Columbus. This statue overlooks the fjord that he would have left out on his trip to find Newfoundland.
Are you ready to visit this ancient island? Schedule a consultation to learn more about how to get to Greenland, the requirements to get on the island, and the best way to get around the island.