Við Áir Whaling Station.
Nature, culture and history unfolded Over the last few years, the number of tourists visiting the Faroe Islands has increased dramatically – and it is easy to see why. Located halfway between Iceland and Scotland, the archipelago of 18 volcanic islands, separated by narrow sounds and fjords, offers visitors unparalleled scenic landscapes, a flourishing food scene, and a rich natural and cultural history – a history that is vividly told by the National Museum of the Faroe Islands. By Camilla Pedersen | Photos: The National Museum of the Faroe Island
The Faroe Islanders can seem a bit reserved at first, but don’t be fooled. They are just as warm, genuine and welcoming as the breathtaking yet raw and unpolished nature that surrounds them and effortlessly makes everyone surrender to a slower pace of life. “The 78 | Issue 128 | September 2019
Faroese people have a strong local identity. Although subtle, there can even be cultural differences between the different islands. But they all have a deep respect for their traditions, heritage and history – perhaps because they have been relatively isolated from the outside world for
centuries,” says Herleif Hammer, museum director of the National Museum of the Faroe Islands.
Treasures from the past The National Museum is a good place to start for visitors who want to dive into the rich natural and cultural history of the Faroe Islands. Located in the vibrant capital of Tórshavn, the permanent exhibition galleries take visitors on a journey through the natural mammal and bird life of the Faroe Islands, and tell the story of the volcanic geological origin of the islands. On display are also historical artefacts dating back to the Viking