The last bit of Greenland

The wonderful visit to Greenland ended with a few days in the capital city of NUUK (18,000 people).

Here are some pictures (and a few comments) as I wandered around.

My first stop was at their very excellent Natural History Museum. I spent almost three hours there, soaking up the displays and very informative content.

I few pictures are included here. There was lot’s more that I saw, learned and snapped, but that would require  a small pamphlet (not a blog post).

One of several displays of traditional “costumes” (special occasion wear) that varied by region

This drawing is of a Viking “settlement” boat (note the livestock on board)

This is an Inuit whaling boat which was found abandoned on a beach by an abandoned settlement in the very far north

The picture below is the museum’s description of this unique relic – more than 500 years old.

Another umiaq and a collection of Kayaks (which varied from region to region, depending on the local custom, the  builders and, very importantly, the available materials

This is a statue of Hans Eged  (31 January 1686 – 5 November 1758) was a Dano-Norwegian Lutheran missionary who launched mission efforts to Greenland, which led him to be styled the Apostle of Greenland.[1][2] He established a successful mission among the Inuit and is credited with revitalizing Dano-Norwegian interest in the island after contact had been broken for hundreds of years. He founded Greenland’s capital Godthåb, now known as Nuuk.

More “native dress” in a sewing cooperative that continues and promotes the old traditions 

Too cute to NOT take a picture – “herding” Kindergarten Kids

 

Sedna – goddess and creator of all the sea creatures (some say of all animals)

The legend of the sea goddess, though known in various regions by different names, is one of the most widespread of Inuit myths.

Old Nuuk

Modern Nuuk – the capital (building) of the country, housing all government offices

“Post Modern” Nuuk – I didn’t try it

This was the “last adventure” – a four hour, open boat, water taxi ride into a few of the fiords of one of the largest archipelagos in Greenland.

A bit bulky, but appropriately warm

A beautiful last afternoon in Greenland

A local fisherman

An “end of the season” waterfall, reduced to a trickle by the approach of winter which reduces the out-flow from the glacial source

Good bye, Greenland. It’s been nice getting to know you

And now off to Iceland !

(on October 2nd – running a bit late – too much to see, absorb and experience)

Author: George Basch

George Basch (aka Curious George) has circled the globe as an Adventurer, Explorer, Photographer and a Creative Entrepreneurial Businessman. He’s been on all seven continents, and in more countries than he’s taken the time to count, and is still going strong as an explorer / adventurer after celebrating his 81st birthday in March 2018. Click here to read more about George

6 thoughts on “The last bit of Greenland

  1. George,

    Sandra and I enjoyed meeting you at the Skaftafell. We ended up going to the glacier (actually walked on it!) and then to the waterfall before heading to Eyjafjallajökull volcano and ending up in Reykjavik. Good times!

    1. It was, indeed, a pleasure to meet you and Sandra, Keith. Glad you got on the ice and had an enjoyable trip back to Reykjavik. Heading the other way I had a couple of good weather days and am enjoying my journey. Lets do stay in touch.

  2. George.
    I share many of your Greenlandic experiences but all your feelings for this fascinating country.
    I hope we can meet again and share adventures and participate in joint philanthropic efforts.

    1. Thanks, Ruben. I really appreciate your comments about my Greenland observations, and share your hope about shared adventures and collaboration on philanthropic ventures. Be well, and thanks again.

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