home Analyzes The largest country in Scandinavia. Scandinavian countries – what to see for tourists

The largest country in Scandinavia. Scandinavian countries – what to see for tourists

Never judge a summer resort
by postcards.
Folk wisdom

Chapter 2. Geography of the world's tourism resources

2.1. Tourist resources of foreign Europe

International tourism (definition and research methods). Connection of the course “International Tourism” with other scientific disciplines.

Classification of types of tourism activities. Prospects for the development of international tourism. Modern factors in the development of international tourism.

2.1.1. Scandinavian countries

The Scandinavian region traditionally includes three countries:.

Finland, Sweden and Norway. In addition to them, Denmark and Iceland are also included here. These countries, in addition to their geographical proximity and northern location, have a number of other common features: common historical development, a high level of economic development and prosperity, and a relatively small population.

FINLAND- “the country of a thousand lakes” (a consequence of the glacial past), does not have rich natural resources, with the exception of forest and water. A significant part of the country - Lapland - is located beyond the Arctic Circle. The shores of the Gulf of Finland and the Gulf of Bothnia are indented by shallow bays with islands located there - skerries. Despite its northern location, the climate here is temperate continental due to the warm Gulf Stream and many inland reservoirs. A special feature of Finland's nature is kamos - the polar night.

The population of Finland is about 5 million people, mostly Finns and Swedes live here, and their religion is Lutheran.

During the period of the existence of the Swedish state, which included Finland, Finns were viewed mainly as “cannon fodder”. In the 19th century Finland became part of the Russian Empire, which led to the flourishing of Finnish national culture and the transfer of the capital from the west, from the city of Turku, to the east of the country, to Helsinki. Helsinki was founded during the period of Swedish rule in order to displace the then prosperous Hanseatic city of Tallinn. At 155 0 King Gustave Vasa of Sweden, who wanted to oust Tallinn, decides to establish a port face to face with the rival city. This is how Helsinki came into being.

Finland became an independent state after the Great October Socialist Revolution of 1917. in Russia.

Taking advantage of the proclaimed V.I. With Lenin's right of nations to self-determination, she was able to defend her national sovereignty. Administratively, the country is divided into 11 provinces (lani) and one autonomy - the Åland Islands. Finland is an economically highly developed country. High-quality paper, Nokia cell phones, diesel engines, elevator equipment, cruise ships, sports equipment - this is the “calling card” of Finnish industry.

Natural resources are no less important for the country's economy. And this is not only forest, covering a significant part of Finland. According to UNESCO, Finland ranks first in the world in terms of groundwater quality. The natural springs here are so pure that tap water can be drunk without filtering or boiling. In recent years, there has been an increase in the export of Finnish drinking water. In this, Finland has every chance to repeat the success of Nokia mobile phones and pulp and paper products.

Finland has an excellent and interesting education system. The Finns have achieved great success in the development of telecommunications and wood processing technologies. In addition, they are actively doing business in the northwestern region of Russia. Accordingly, studying in Finland can become a prologue for a diploma student to a successful career in a branch of one of the foreign companies in Russia.

Based on natural, historical and economic characteristics, the following regions can be distinguished in Finland: Southern Finland with its center in the city of Helsinki, Western Finland with its center in the ancient capital of the country - Turku, Central Finland with the major centers of Tampere and the winter sports capital of Lahti. The country's largest port, Kotka, is located in Eastern Finland. The north of Finland is occupied by Lapland with its center in the city of Rovaniemi.

Åland Islands- a state within a state, the inhabitants of the islands have always been known as good sailors and fishermen.

In Helsinki, tourists are usually offered a number of excursions: bridges and canals of Helsinki, a boat trip with dinner, an excursion to Kotka.

A salmon fair and salmon fishing competitions are held. The Kotka-Verdi sailing regatta (Estonia) and other sailing competitions are organized in Kotka. Tourists are also offered boat trips. One of the most famous sights of Turku, the ancient capital of Finland, is the Cathedral - the main temple of the Lutheran faith and the national shrine of Finland. It is considered the most valuable architectural monument of the country. The cathedral is not only a museum, it is a place of worship for parishioners, in particular for the Swedish-speaking population of the city. The cathedral is already more than 700 years old. It began to be built in the 13th century, when Turku became the most important trading center in the country.

The construction of the cathedral was completed by 1300.

Central Finland is considered one of the most beautiful places in the country. This is a lake district. Thus, in the city of Kuopio, located on the shores of Lake Kallavesi, tourists are offered a huge selection of boat trips. Small boats and water buses depart from the port daily. “Build a sauna first, and then a house” is a famous Finnish proverb. The sauna is an integral part of the Finnish way of life. Restraint, slowness, seriousness, silence, precision are the characteristics of Finnish behavior. Skiing, fishing, hockey - the secrets of Finnish longevity.

A visa is permission to enter the country. Visa-free entry to Finland is allowed only for citizens of the Nordic countries (Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Norway), as well as for citizens of the European Union.

SWEDEN- a country occupying most of the Scandinavian Peninsula. The Scandinavian mountains are mountains of old folding, rich in ore minerals. Swedish steel, made from local iron ores, is considered one of the best in the world. There are many lakes in Southern Sweden. Here is the largest lake in Europe - Lake Venerna, in the extreme south there is a fertile hill, the breadbasket - the Småland region.

Sweden is a predominantly single-ethnic country with a population of about 9 million people, more than 90% of the inhabitants are Swedes. Sweden's temperate continental climate is a consequence of 54 two factors: the influx of warm, humid air masses from the Atlantic and the penetration of cold air from the Arctic.

Sweden is a constitutional monarchy. Traditionally, every year the King of Sweden awards honorary Nobel Prizes to the five most outstanding scientists and public figures in the world. The country consists of 24 lenas (provinces). The capital of the country is Stockholm, a port on the Baltic Sea. It is very beautiful, it has many attractions and museums - the national one, the open-air ethnographic museum, the northern Milles garden, the Vasa Museum and the Treasury.

Once dominant in Northern Europe, Sweden has not been involved in wars for almost 190 years, maintaining political neutrality.

Sweden has a highly developed economy and a high standard of living for its population. The basis of the economy is wood processing, pulp and paper industry, metallurgy, hydropower, and mechanical engineering.

Sweden is a music exporter. The ABBA ensemble brought fame to musical Sweden. Children's writer A. Lindgren, or rather, her characters (Malysh and Carlson) are familiar to millions of children.

Sweden is called the “land of late professors.” The fact is that according to the old Swedish tradition, the teacher has the right to be late for class by exactly a quarter of an hour. And classes at Swedish universities begin at nine in the morning. If the professor is delayed longer, the class is cancelled. There was no case in which any of the teachers neglected their traditional historical right to be late.

In terms of regional differences in Sweden, three large cities can be noted - Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmo. Stockholm is called the “city on the water”, Malmo in the south of Sweden is the “city of parks”, Gothenburg on the west coast is the country’s largest port. In northern Sweden there are numerous oblong lakes rich in fish. Logs are floated along mountain rivers and numerous hydroelectric power stations are located here.

In the northern regions of Sweden in the summer the sun does not fall below the horizon. Here you can often find entire herds of elk and deer grazing near the homes of local residents.

The famous ski resort of Åre consists of four villages - Duved, Tegefjell, Åre By and Åre Bjornen. All villages are connected by bus routes. Åre meets all global requirements for a high-level ski resort. Due to its high technical characteristics, this resort is often called the “Scandinavian Alps”. Alpine skiing World Cup stages have been held here several times.

In the southern regions of the country, landscapes are varied. The coastal strip alternates sandy and pebble beaches with rocks. Lake Vänern, Europe's largest, is located here. Southern Sweden is occupied by the regions of Skåne, Halland and Småland. Skåne has famous beech forests and numerous golf courses.

Holland is famous for its endless sandy beaches. This is a great place to relax in a secluded house on the coast or a small hotel in small Swedish towns, which have a special atmosphere of provincial Sweden. It is the region of Småland that the Swedes themselves consider the real Sweden. The “Kingdom of Crystal” is located here - 15 villages where glassblowing is developed. In southern Sweden, the famous 16-kilometer bridge connects the city of Malmö with the Danish capital, Copenhagen.

The center of Western Sweden is the city of Gothenburg, located on the Göta River. The city's population is 500 thousand people.

Gothenburg is Sweden's second largest city and its most important port.

The bishop's residence and university are located in Gothenburg.

Central Sweden is a mecca for those interested in Swedish culture. Dalarna is an area of this part of the country that is known as the center of Swedish folklore. On holidays, you can meet local residents dressed in national costumes here, as well as take part in folk festivals. The capital of Sweden is located on the Baltic Sea coast. The metro in Stockholm resembles an art gallery. Dozens of artists and sculptors took part in the design of the stations. The city has an almost environmentally friendly environment. As already noted, Stockholm has a number of museums, among which the Vasa Museum is especially noteworthy. This is a museum of a royal ship built in the 17th century. The ship was very large for those times. The height of its masts was 50 m. It was equipped with 64 cannons and many excellently made sculptural details. The ship began its first voyage in August 1628, but was capsized by a sudden squall and sank. In 196 1 he was found and raised. The ship is perfectly preserved. Now it is the main exhibit of the museum.

The royal castle houses a small but very visited museum, the Treasury, which displays the treasures of the royal family, including the sword of King Gustav Vasa and the crown of the Swedish kings. Stockholm's attractions also include the luxurious royal palace, which is of great historical and artistic value, and the city hall, where the largest organ in Scandinavia is installed.

There are two large islands in the Baltic Sea - Öland and Gotland, which are part of Sweden. Eland Island is famous for its sandy beaches. Here, on the island, there is a reliably recreated village from Viking times with all the attributes of that era. Gotland is the largest island in the Baltic Sea. Visby, the main city of the island, is surrounded by a medieval fortress wall that has survived to this day and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Among the cruises that can be offered to tourists in Sweden, a cruise along the Göta Canal, connecting Stockholm and Gothenburg, should be noted. Tourists will see fortresses, castles, monasteries, dense forests and much more.

NORWAY. Vacations and excursion trips along the Norwegian fjords have recently become one of the most popular and fashionable types of recreation among tourists. Norwegian fjords are deep-water bays of the Atlantic Ocean, cutting into the land among steep cliffs and high mountains with glaciers frozen on the tops and rapid waterfalls. The fjords were formed by glaciers that, over many ice ages, cut deeper and deeper into solid rock.

Recently, leading tourism experts held a competition to determine the most popular destination in the world. This competition was held by the largest international tourism magazine, National Geographic Traveler. Among the competitors of the Norwegian fjords were 115 other places known for their unique beauty throughout the world. Nevertheless, the undisputed winner of the competition was the Norwegian fjords.

In order to explore the main attraction of Norway - the fjords, tourists go to the city of Bergen. Bergen is Norway in miniature, it is the history of the entire country, it is the capital of the kingdom of trolls and picturesque fjords. In Bergen, tourists can visit the Hanseatic Embankment, listed as a UNESCO world cultural property; the beautiful ancient fortress of Bergenhus - the first capital of the Kingdom of Norway;

The Troll Hill estate is the residence of the famous Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg. In 1909 The Bergen Railway came into operation, connecting Oslo and Bergen. To provide a transport route to Sognefjord, in 1923. began construction of a parallel route to Flåm. In 1944 the road was open. The train covers a 20 km section, passing through 20 tunnels with a total length of 6 km between Flåm and Myrdal, in approximately 1 hour. Tourists admire the amazing nature:.

There are rivers around, deep gorges, waterfalls washing steep mountain walls with snow-covered peaks, mountain farms.

Norway is a country of ancient Vikings, but since the 14th century. was a dependent state of Denmark and Sweden, and since 1905. - independent country. Most of it is occupied by the Scandinavian mountains. Norway's moderate oceanic climate, despite its northern location, is determined by the Gulf Stream, which passes off the coast of the country.

Oil and gas found on the North Sea shelf off the coast of Norway added to the national wealth of an already prosperous country. Norway is among the major maritime powers exporting fish and seafood.

Norway, like Sweden, is a constitutional monarchy with 19 provinces.

The capital of Norway, Oslo, is located in the south of the country. Its main attractions: Vigellan sculpture park, Holmenkoln ski jump, Viking ship museum, Kontiki museum. In addition to Oslo, there are two main tourist areas in Norway:.

“The country of fjords”, which occupies the southern and central part of the country, and Northern Norway.

The “Country of Fjords” includes several regions: Rogoland, Hordoland, Sognefjord, More og Romsdal. Rogoland is the southernmost region of the fjord country. The cities of Stavanger and Hauge Sund are located here. Stavanger is the largest city in this region, as well as the fourth largest in all of Norway. It has retained the unique flavor of antiquity: on the narrow streets you can find many cafes, restaurants, shops and museums. Stavanger initially developed through the fish trade, like many cities in Norway. After oil fields were discovered on the North Sea shelf, oil company headquarters appeared here. Haugesund is famous for its popular festivals and historical open-air museum. There is a waterfall not far from the city. The center of the Hordoland region is the city of Bergen.

The Sognefjord region is home to Norway's longest fjord, called Sognefjord. It is also the deepest fjord in the world, its depth is 1300 m - only a few meters less than the height of the surrounding mountains. The More og Romsdal region is the northernmost region of the fjord country. The center of this area is the city of Ålesund. Numerous medieval turrets, romantic facades and spiers of buildings have become the hallmark of Alesund. It is one of the most important centers of the fishing industry in Norway. The central city of Northern Norway is the city of Bode. Within this region are the Lofoten Islands, which are called the “Lofoten Wall”. These islands are famous for their high mountains, beautiful bays and wild coastal landscapes.

A popular tour among tourists is Northern Norway and the Murmansk region: Murmansk - Tromso - Bode - Lofoten Islands - Tromso - North Cape - Kirkenes - Murmansk. The highlight of this tour is a cruise along the coast of Northern Norway from Bode to Kirkenes.

Norway is the birthplace of skiing. Winter resorts began to develop here almost simultaneously with the main ski centers in Europe. This was largely due to the fact that the winter season in Norway is the longest on the entire continent. Yailo is the most famous and popular Norwegian ski resort. International slalom and cross-country skiing competitions are held here. The resort has a well-developed winter sports base with more than a century of tradition. Yailo is often called an “alpine town”, because the first alpine skiing competitions in Norway were held there in 1935. There is snow here almost all year round.

The small town of Lillehamer, located on the shores of Lake Mjøsa, is famous. In 1994 The Winter Olympic Games were held here. Hafjell is the site of the 1994 Olympic slalom competition. This resort is located 15 km from Lillehamer. The ski resort of Kvitfjell, which means “White Mountain”, is a favorite vacation spot of the Norwegian elite. The slalom World Cup and biathlon competitions are held here annually. The resorts of Gausdal, Gala, and Hemsedal are also popular.

In addition to sports competitions, winter resorts in Norway offer dog sled rides, reindeer rides, scooter rides, and ice skating.

DENMARK occupies most of the Jutland Peninsula and a group of nearby islands. Administratively, the country consists of 14 regions. The population is about 5 million people. Ethnic composition: Danes, Germans, Frisians, Faresians.

The government system is a constitutional monarchy. The official language is Danish. Religion - Lutheranism.

The most ancient monuments in Denmark date back to the 8th-7th millennia BC. In the 8th century The first kingdom was formed on Danish territory. Since the 18th century Denmark is a colonial power. It still owns the Faroe Islands and the island.

Denmark is a country covered with high hills.

The climate is temperate, moderated by the North Atlantic current.

The main tourist attractions are concentrated in the capital of Denmark - Copenhagen. In the historical center of the city, near the town hall, there is a monument to the famous children's writer, the most famous Dane, Hans Christian Andersen, the great storyteller of the 19th century, and at the entrance to Copenhagen harbor there is a world-famous sculpture of the Little Mermaid, the heroine of Andersen's fairy tale. Among the attractions of the capital of Denmark, the palace complex of Amalienborg (18th century) should be especially noted. Four identical buildings are located opposite each other on an octagonal square, in the center of which stands the equestrian monument to Frederick V. The Nyhaun Canal is a place where tourists can visit exotic old-style taverns and shops.

The Danish islands are also interesting in terms of tourism. The island of Zealand is the commercial center of the country. It also has beautiful beaches, lakes, forests and palaces. The island of Funen is called the “garden of Denmark”, where there are more than a hundred castles open to visitors, hundreds of picturesque old villages. However, the main attraction of Denmark is the Danes themselves - their friendliness, hospitality and humor.

Faroe islands is an autonomous region of Denmark, including 18 inhabited and a number of uninhabited islands in the northeast Atlantic Ocean in the Norwegian Sea, between Norway and Iceland. The capital of the islands is the city of Tórshavn. Local attractions include a historical museum, an art gallery, and an ancient monastery. Tourists also take excursions to a sheep farm and go fishing in the sea.

Greenland- the largest island in the world, its area is 2 million sq. km, which is equivalent to one quarter of the territory of the United States. Ice 3-4 km thick covers a significant part of the island. The capital of Greenland is the city of Nuuk, which is home to about 15 thousand inhabitants.

Greenland is known as a destination for sea cruises. Here 61 tourists are offered fishing, hunting, dog sledding, motor sleigh rides, and, of course, skiing is common.

ICELAND. This country is located in the North Atlantic Ocean. Despite the circumpolar location, the climate here is relatively mild: on the coast the average temperature in January is from 0 to 2°, in July - from 10 to 15°. This is a consequence of the influence of the Gulf Stream, which prevents the island from turning into an Arctic desert. Glaciers and volcanoes are the face of Iceland.

This appearance is complemented by beautiful waterfalls and geysers, the heat of which is used to heat buildings. Iceland is sparsely populated, the country's population is only 290 thousand people.

The discoverers of Iceland were Norwegian sailors.

The basis of the country's economy is fishing. Tourism in Iceland is primarily associated with visiting natural attractions: glaciers, fjords, canyons, volcanoes, geysers. The sulfurous water of geysers can be the basis of medical and health tourism.

Among the attractions of the country's capital, Reykjavik (translated as "bay of smoke") are the Natural History Museum, the National Museum, the National Gallery, the Hallgrim Church and the Leif Erikson Monument - a gift from the United States in honor of the millennium of the founding of the Althing, the oldest living parliament in the world.

There are four tourist regions in Iceland: Western Iceland; Northern Iceland; East Iceland; South Iceland. Western Iceland includes the area between Reykjavik and the Klopningnes Peninsula. Here is the Snæfellsjökull volcano, which is almost 1.5 km high.

The territory of Northern Iceland includes eight peninsulas, separated from each other by bays and fjords - the Jökulsárgljúfur National Park is located in this area.

The northern capital of Iceland is the city of Akureyri. Bird watching tours are popular here. You can also see whales here. The visiting card of East Iceland is the Vatnajokull glacier, and the fjords are also a local attraction.

There is a ferry terminal connecting Iceland with the Faroe Islands and Norway. Symbols of South Iceland: Skogafoss and Seljalandfoss waterfalls and black volcanic sand.

Scandinavia is a geographical region located in northern Europe, on the peninsula of the same name.

The term “Scandinavia” is a general concept and is used as a synonym for the Scandinavian countries and the countries of Northern Europe, which includes three countries: Norway, Finland, Sweden, and at the same time also Iceland and Denmark, which look great on the world map.

In contact with

Classmates

These countries, with the exception of their close proximity, have a number of holistic advantages:

cohesion;
high level of well-being;
growth of economic stability;
relatively small population;
peoples speak similar Scandinavian languages.

Small country

Norway is a small country, however, on the world stage, its navy ranks fourth. Norwegians are rightfully famous for their own shipbuilding. Most of the population is engaged in fishing, and also in logging. The country's capital, Oslo, is an industrial city and a major port. Norway is a monarchy (constitutional), including 19 provinces. Its main beauties are: the Viking Ship Museum, the Holmenkoln springboard, the Vigellan sculpture park, and the Kontiki Museum.

The wild nature and beautiful landscapes of Norway fascinate tourists with colorful fjords, glaciers, rushing waterfalls and valleys covered with luxurious flora.

Member of the European Union

Finland is a Scandinavian state in northern Europe, a member of the EU (European Union) and the Schengen Agreement, bordering the Russian Federation (RF), Norway and Sweden.

Finland, the “land of a thousand lakes,” does not have rich natural resources, but is famous for its forest and water resources. A significant part of the country - Lapland - is located beyond the Arctic Circle. The country is washed by the Gulf of Bothnia and the Gulf of Finland, the coast of which is indented by shallow bays. The climate is temperate continental due to the warm Gulf Stream and the abundance of inland water bodies. A characteristic indicator of the nature of Finland is the polar night. The indigenous inhabitants are Finns and Swedes, religion is Lutheran. The population is about 5 million people.

No less significant for the country’s economy are natural reserves. And it's not just the forest that covers a large part of Finland. According to UNESCO, this country ranks first in the world in terms of groundwater quality. Here the natural springs are so impeccable that the tap water can be drunk without filtering or boiling. Currently, there has been dramatic progress in the export of Finnish drinking water. In addition, Finland has every chance to resume and speed up processes in the pulp and paper industry.

State has an excellent education system. The Finns have achieved enormous results in the development of telecommunications and methods of wood processing. In addition, they dynamically promote business in the northwestern area of the Russian Federation (RF). In accordance with this, studying in Finland can be the beginning for a diploma student to a successful career in a branch of one of the foreign companies in the Russian Federation.

Kingdom of Sweden

Sweden is a country, occupying the maximum part of the Scandinavian Peninsula. The mountains of ancient folding (Scandinavian mountains) are rich in ore minerals. Steel produced from local iron ores is considered one of the best on the globe. There are a huge number of lakes in Southern Sweden, among them Venerna, and there is also a fertile hill, but the region of Småland is still the breadbasket.

Sweden - mostly one-national state With a population of approximately 9 million people, more than 90% of the inhabitants are Swedish. A temperate continental climate is the achievement of two circumstances: the entry of cold air from the Arctic and the entry of warm, humid air currents from the Atlantic.

Sweden is a monarchy (constitutional). Every year, the King of Sweden awards honorary Nobel Prizes to five of the world's most outstanding scientists and social activists. The country consists of 24 provinces. The capital of the country is the city of Stockholm, it has many attractions and museums, for example, the national one; ethnographic which is located in the open air; Vasa Museum; Milles Garden and Treasury.

It is also worth noting the fact that Sweden, which once dominated Northern Europe, has not taken part in wars for almost 190 years, maintaining political neutrality.

Sweden has a developed economic structure and high standard of living of the population. The following industries directly serve as the base:

woodworking;
pulp and paper industry;
metallurgy;
mechanical engineering and hydropower.

Sweden is considered a music exporter. For example, the popularity of the ABBA ensemble exceeded all expectations and broke all records in the history of pop music. It is impossible not to mention the children's fairy tale “The Kid and Carlson,” familiar to millions of children, written by the wonderful writer A. Lindgren.

Pearl of Scandinavia

Denmark - the pearl of Scandinavia, which occupies the maximum share of the Jutland Peninsula and a number of nearby islands, which includes Greenland and the Faroe Islands.

The management program includes 14 areas. The capital of Denmark is the city of Copenhagen, where the central tourist attractions are concentrated: a monument to the children's writer Hans Christian Andersen, the famous storyteller of the 19th century, the famous sculpture of the Little Mermaid, the Amalienborg palace complex (18th century), etc. By the way, it is worth noting that historical cultural monuments in Denmark date back to the 8th - 7th millennia BC.

Political system- a constitutional monarchy. The official language is Danish. Religion - Lutheranism. Ethnic groups: Danes, Frisians, Germans, Faroese.

The climate is temperate, smoothed by the North Atlantic Current. Denmark is a country covered with elevated hills.

Iceland. This country is located in the northern part of the Atlantic Ocean, despite its circumpolar location, the climate is mild: on the coast the average temperature in January is from 0 to 2°C, in July - from 10 to 15°C. This is explained by the influence of the Gulf Stream, which prevents the island from transforming into an Arctic desert.

The basis of the economy is fishing and agriculture. The unique nature of Iceland is the most important asset of the Iceland, and state parks and the Haukadalur geyser valley, volcanoes and glaciers, waterfalls and fjords are its treasure. The city of Reykjavik is the capital, which is famous for: the Natural History Museum.

National Museum, monument to Leif Eriksson, etc. This look is complemented by gorgeous flora.

However, if you are planning to visit the Scandinavian countries on your own, then a car map (Garmin) will certainly help you.

Road map of Scandinavian countries for compatible Garmin navigators, contains detailed road maps and memorable places for your device, where you can move without problems, note, the language is Russian: with the right tips, turn-by-turn for every address, intersection, restaurant complexes, gas stations and much more, much more. Thus, Scandinavia (the Scandinavian peninsula) is a storehouse of historical and cultural values.

In contact with

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS

Educational institution

"Gomel State University named after Francis Skaryna"

Correspondence faculty

Department of Geography

Scandinavian Peninsula

Course work

Executor:

Group student

GZ-41 Pashkovskaya E.A.

Scientific adviser:

Assistant Marchenko A.N.

Gomel 2012

Introduction

Geographical location, geological structure and relief

1.2Minerals

2Climate and hydrographic features

1Climate

2.2Features of hydrography

3Features of soil cover, flora and fauna

1Soil and vegetation cover

3.2 Fauna

3Protected areas

Conclusion

List of sources used

Introduction

The Scandinavian Peninsula, the largest peninsula in Europe, fascinates with its history and natural, unique beauty. Its territory includes Sweden, Norway and part of Finland. It is washed by the Norwegian, Baltic, Barents and North seas. The Scandinavian Mountains, part of the Baltic Shield, form the border between Sweden and Norway. In northern Norway, the mountain range reaches the coast of the sea, here it is heavily indented by fjords.

The peninsula has various climatic zones from subarctic to temperate.

The climate on the Scandinavian Peninsula is temperate throughout almost the entire territory and only in the far north is it subarctic. The peculiarities of the climate are that it differs in different parts due to the natural barrier to air masses - the Scandinavian mountains. In the west and south in summer +8 +14°С, in winter -4-2°С. In the north in summer +6 +8°С, in winter -16°С. In the east in summer +15°C, in winter -10°C. The peninsula has an abundant river network with wild and fast rivers. There are also a large number of lakes.

The fauna is represented by forest animals: hare, elk, fox. There are deer in the north. Bird colonies can be found in the coastal rocks. The coastal waters of the Scandinavian Peninsula are rich in fish.

The Swedish part of the peninsula is replete with lakes and forests, which occupy more than half of the country, according to this indicator it is in first place in Europe. The countries of the Scandinavian Peninsula are famous for their high standard of living, environmental friendliness and rich cuisine. In the north of the country there is a historical region - Scania, from which the name of the island comes. It used to belong to Denmark. Despite the fact that now the territory of this country does not affect the peninsula, it is often classified as Scandinavia.

The subject of the course work is the Scandinavian Peninsula.

Purpose of the course work: to study the Scandinavian Peninsula

1)describe the geographical location, geological structure and relief of the Scandinavian Peninsula;

2)study the climate and hydrographic features of the Scandinavian Peninsula;

)reveal the features of the soil cover, flora and fauna of the Scandinavian Peninsula.

1. Geographical location, geological structure and relief

The Scandinavian Peninsula is the largest in Europe (800 thousand sq. km.). It extends from northeast to southwest between 71 and 56° north latitude. and is surrounded by islands. The largest are Gotland, Öland, Bornholm. There are thousands of small islands off the western coast of the peninsula. In the north, the Scandinavian Peninsula has a wide connection with the mainland; in the south, it is separated from the plains of Central Europe by a system of straits between the North and Baltic seas. The western coast of the peninsula is washed by the waters of the Norwegian and North Seas, the northern coast faces the Arctic Ocean. There are two states on the peninsula - Sweden and Norway and the northwestern part of Finland, the main territory of which is separated from the Scandinavian Peninsula by the Gulf of Bothnia in the Baltic Sea.

The Scandinavian Peninsula is a peninsula located in the northwestern part of Europe and spanning the Gulf of Bothnia and the Baltic Sea. It extends from the north of Russia and Finland 1900 km south almost to the borders of Denmark. The width of the peninsula reaches 800 km, the area is approx. 800 thousand sq. km. (the largest peninsula in Europe). The peninsula contains Norway, Sweden and the northwestern part of Finland (Figure 1).

Figure 1 - Countries of the Scandinavian Peninsula

About a quarter of the peninsula is located beyond the Arctic Circle, where the northernmost point of the continent is located - Cape Nordkin. Galhöppigen, the highest mountain of the Scandinavian Peninsula, has a height of 2469 meters. Here in the mountains is also the Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in Europe.

The peninsula is washed by the Baltic, North, Norwegian and Barents seas. In the southern part it forms two protrusions - southern Norwegian and southern Swedish, separated by the Skagerrak Strait, Bohus Bay and Oslofjord. The Kattegat and Øresund straits separate the peninsula from Denmark. The southernmost tip is called the Skåne Peninsula.

The northern and western coastlines are heavily indented by fjords. Along the coast there are a large number of islands and archipelagos, separated from the peninsula by a complex system of straits.

The eastern and southern shores are low and flat, often dissected by small bays. Near the coast there are many small islands and underwater rocks - skerries, which greatly complicate navigation.

The western and northern regions are occupied by the Scandinavian mountains with the highest point of the peninsula - Mount Galhöpiggen, height 2469 m. From the east, the mountains are adjacent to the vast low (up to 800 m) Norrland plateau, which descends stepwise towards the Gulf of Bothnia.

The main deposits of minerals are associated with ancient tectonic structures and the magmatic intrusions that penetrate them: iron ores (Kiruna, Gällivare, Kirkenes, Grängesberg), copper, as well as titanium and lead. In the shelf part of the North Sea adjacent to the peninsula there are oil fields (Ekofisk, etc.).

1.1 Geological structure and relief

In terms of its structure, the Scandinavian Peninsula is a huge block of stone consisting of granite and gneiss. Along the western coast of the peninsula stretch in a wide strip the massive Scandinavian mountains up to 2469 km high (Mount Galchepiggen) above sea level, consisting of a series of plateaus. In the west, the Scandinavian mountains descend directly to the Atlantic Ocean and appear in the form of rocks, cut by narrow but very long bays - fjords. In total, there are several hundred fjords, 30 of them are more than 40 km long, and one - Sognefjord - is about 200 km. In ancient times, fjords served as beds for huge glaciers sliding into the ocean, and traces of the work of these glaciers are still noticeable in the fjords: their shores in many places are smoothed and, as it were, polished. The fjords also owe their extraordinary depth to glaciers, reaching up to 1 km in the Sognefjord.

The main features of the relief are associated with the position of the Scandinavian Peninsula within the Baltic Shield and the Calydonian folded structures, which experienced significant vertical movements and leveling in Neogene-Anthropogen times due to glacial gouging and accumulation. They destroyed and leveled ancient mountains. The thickness of the glaciers on the peninsula, which was the center of continental glaciation in Europe, in some places exceeded 1500 m. The last ice cover existed in the Stockholm area about 10 thousand years ago, and near the northern coast of the Gulf of Bothnia 7-8 thousand years ago, they left behind ridges of hills from glacial pumps and piles of stones and boulders. Freed from the enormous weight of the ice shell, the Scandinavian Peninsula has experienced a slow uplift in recent millennia that continues to this day (Figure 2).

The relief of the eastern part of the Scandinavian Peninsula is a low undulating plain. It alternates with outcrops of granites and gneisses in the form of so-called ram's foreheads and curly rocks processed by the glacier, long and narrow ridges of glacial deposits - eskers and numerous depressions and depressions occupied by lakes.

In the north and west of the Scandinavian Peninsula stretch the Scandinavian Mountains, corresponding to the Calydonian folded structures. For a long time, the mountains were destroyed and leveled under the influence of water and wind, and then during recent movements their leveled surface was broken by faults and faults. Some parts of it rose, others fell. This is how fjelds were formed - separate flat-topped massifs, above the leveled monotonous surface of which rocky pointed peaks rise here and there. The largest and highest fjelds are located in southern Norway. These are the plateaus of Jotunheimen, Hardangervidda, Dovrefjell, Telemark.

Figure - 2 Relief map of the Scandinavian Peninsula

1.2 Minerals

Among the mineral resources of the Scandinavian Peninsula, the most important are iron ores - magnetites, which occur in Archean rocks and contain 60-70% iron. The areas where magnetites are distributed and mined are Central and Northern Sweden (Kiruna and Elivare), as well as Northern and Southern Norway. In the zone of ancient folding there are also ores of some non-ferrous metals. The northern part of Norway is rich in copper ore reserves, the southern part is rich in molybdenum, titanium and uranium. Copper ores, lead and zinc ores are associated with ancient intrusive rocks in Finland. Many rocks of the Baltic crystalline shield are used as building material. Finnish granites and quartzites are especially valued for cladding buildings.

Peat is widespread. Its reserves are especially large in the northern part of Sweden and the central regions of Finland, where flat terrain, water-resistant crystalline rocks and weak evaporation contribute to the development of waterlogging processes.

Norway has significant reserves of oil, natural gas, iron ores, titanium, vanadium, and zinc. There are deposits of lead, copper ores, non-metallic raw materials - apatite, graphite, syenite. Norway has significant reserves of hydrocarbons and, to a lesser extent, coal, but all these deposits are confined either to Paleogene and Jurassic deposits in the North Sea, or to coal accumulations of island territories. Continental Norway itself has a more meager range of mineral resources, however, there are also quite large reserves of various mineral resources. Thus, the continental part of the south of the country has significant reserves of iron, titanium, vanadium and zinc ores. There are deposits of lead and copper ores. Non-metallic raw materials are also presented: apatites, graphite and nepheline syenite. As can be seen, the fundamental difference between the mineral resource base of continental Norway and its other parts is the absence of any significant reserves of minerals of sedimentary origin. This, naturally, is due to the geological structure of the Scandinavian Peninsula, where there is practically no trail of sedimentary rocks. The largest deposit of ilmenite ores rich in titanium dioxide in Western Europe is located in the south of the country in the Egersund region. The main deposits of non-ferrous metals are confined to the zone of Caledonian folding, composed directly of the Caledonides, outside the zone of folding into folds of Precambrian rocks. Thus, all the Scandinavian mountains in the area from Bodø to the Telemark plateau, not inclusive, turn out to be ore-bearing. Also in the capital area there are several deposits of building materials, which are confined to the outcrops of sedimentary deposits of the Oslo graben.

The main mineral deposits of the Scandinavian Peninsula are associated with ancient tectonic structures and the magmatic intrusions that penetrate them: iron ores (Kiruna, Gällivare, Kirkenes, Grängesberg), copper, as well as titanium and lead. In the shelf part of the North Sea adjacent to the Scandinavian Peninsula there are oil fields (Ekofisk, etc.).

scandinavia peninsula geographical climate

2. Climate and hydrographic features

.1 Climate

Warm currents, the “source” of which is the mighty Gulf Stream, have a great influence on the formation of natural conditions. Washing the shores of Scandinavia, these currents noticeably increase the temperature of water and air and create favorable conditions for the development of traditional industries - fishing and shipping (Figure 3).

Figure 3 - Average surface temperature of the Scandinavian Peninsula in January

The moderating effect of the ocean on the climate of Scandinavia is especially evident in the west - in Norway and southwestern Sweden. These areas are characterized by mild winters, almost frost-free, with strong winds and drizzling rains, cool summers and abundant moisture. The climate of the eastern part of the Scandinavian Peninsula is more continental. This is explained by the barrier role of the Scandinavian mountains in relation to humid westerly winds from the Atlantic, as well as the more frequent penetration of air masses from the north and northeast. Therefore, in the east there is a relatively long frosty winter with stable snow cover.

Figure 4 - Annual variation of temperatures, precipitation and relative humidity on the western and eastern coasts of the Scandinavian Peninsula

In the west, thanks to intense cyclonic circulation and the warming influence of the North Atlantic Current, the climate is maritime with mild winters (average January temperatures from -4 °C in the north to +2 °C in the south), cool summers (in July, respectively, from + 8 °C to +14 °C), abundant and relatively evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year (1000-3000 mm per year). In the upper zone of the Scandinavian Mountains, the average temperature in January is up to -16 °C, in July from +6 °C to +8 °C; about 5000 km.sq. here it is covered with ice sheets, as well as mountain-valley glaciers. In the eastern part the climate is temperate, transitional to continental; the average January temperature is from -15 °C in the north to -3 °C in the south, July from +10 °C in the north to +17 °C in the south; precipitation is 300-800 mm per year, but, due to low evaporation, moisture here is sufficient or excessive almost everywhere, which has led to significant swampiness of the territory.

The climate of the Scandinavian Peninsula is predominantly temperate. It is significantly softened by the warm North Atlantic Current, which runs along the western coast of the peninsula and is a branch of the famous Gulf Stream. Winters on the Scandinavian Peninsula are quite warm (average temperature is about 0° C), but summers are cool and cloudy; the prevailing westerly winds bring a lot of precipitation. Only north of the Arctic Circle the climate is somewhat drier. In the summer, when there is a long polar day (lasting 6 weeks at Cape Nordkin), the sky is often cloudless, so you can see the sun without setting for several days.

2.2 Features of hydrography

The countries of the Scandinavian Peninsula are located differently in relation to the sea. So, for example, Finland is removed from the ocean routes and is surrounded by the Gulfs of Bothnia and the Gulf of Finland of the Baltic Sea, which freeze in winter, the water temperature of which in summer is +15 +16 °C, and in winter +2 °C. The depths of the Baltic Sea are small, on average 50 m, in the bays much less. If we talk about the territory of Sweden, then it is washed by the waters of the North Sea. A regime that is greatly influenced by the land that surrounds it on three sides. Therefore, in the sea, especially in the south and east, there are significant fluctuations in air and water temperatures (from 0 to +8 °C in winter and from +12 to +18 °C in summer). The fauna of the North Sea is close to the fauna of the Atlantic Ocean.

As for Norway, in addition to the North Sea, it is also washed by the Norwegian Sea, which is the largest in this region. Thanks to the warm Norwegian Current, the sea does not freeze completely, and the surface water temperature does not drop below +3 °C.

In the Scandinavian mountains there is a center of modern glaciation, the total area of which is more than 3000 km. The snow line on the southern fields is at an altitude of about 1200 m, and in the north it drops to 400-500 m. Huge firn fields cover the fields and give rise to valley glaciers, descending mainly to the west well below the snow line. The highest mountain peaks rise above the surface of the firn fields in the form of nunataks and have significant cirque glaciers. Large ice masses are located in the western zone of the mountains, where more precipitation falls. The largest ice field (486 . sq.) is located in the southwest of the peninsula north of the Sognefjord in the Jostedalsbreen massif at an altitude of 1500-2000 m. This ice massif feeds more than 15 valley glaciers, which diverge from it in all directions and descend to 300 m above sea level.

The history of development and modern climatic conditions of the region are clearly reflected in the characteristics of rivers and lakes, which form a single, complexly branched network. Lakes are often extensions of river valleys, and many rivers serve as channels between large lakes. The morphological features of the water network are due to the fact that it was formed geologically quite recently - after the departure of the Quaternary glaciers. This explains the undeveloped profiles of river valleys and the abundance of rapids and waterfalls.

The bizarre and varied alternation of land and water is the most remarkable feature of Scandinavian landscapes. It’s not for nothing that Finland received the name “the land of a thousand lakes.” Even according to rough estimates, their total number reaches 60 thousand, and they occupy about 10% of the total area. Typically, lakes abound with numerous bays, peninsulas and islands, interconnected by channels and form branched lake systems. In the central interior region, lakes account for 1/4 to 1/2 of the total area, and this region is called the Lake Plateau.

The river network of the Scandinavian Peninsula is dense; The rivers are predominantly short, high-water, turbulent, and have the largest hydropower reserves in Western Europe. The largest rivers are: Glomma, Klar-Elven, Turne-Elv, Dal-Elven. In basins of tectonic origin, reworked by ancient glaciers, there are many lakes (the largest are Vänern, Vättern, Mälaren).

Most of the rivers and lakes were formed in tectonic cracks that formed in the Neogene and were later processed by a glacier. The direction of tectonic lines determines the dominant direction of river valleys and lake basins - from northwest to southeast. Short, fast-flowing mountain streams flow from the Scandinavian mountains to the west and do not freeze in winter. Many of them fall from the high ledges of the highlands into the fjords and form waterfalls several hundred meters high (Utigard - 610 m, Kiel - 561 m). The rivers flowing down the eastern slope of the Scandinavian Mountains into the Baltic Sea and the rivers of Finland flow in wider valleys and have a less steep fall, but also form rapids and waterfalls when crossing ledges of hard rock. The most famous waterfalls are Jaurekaska on the Luleälven River in Sweden and Einunnfoss on a tributary of the Glomma River in Norway, and the Imatra waterfall on the Vuoksa River in Finland. The length of the rivers is short. The largest river - Glomma - reaches only 611 km, Kemijoki - 552 km, Turnelven - 565 km (Figure 4).

Figure 5 - River network of the Scandinavian Peninsula

The rivers are fed mainly by snow, in the west by snow and rain and partly by glaciers. Lakes, through which most rivers flow, play an important role in maintaining water flow. Maximum consumption occurs in late spring and early summer. All rivers, with the exception of the mountain rivers of Western Norway, freeze for more or less long periods of time. In the north, the freeze-up period lasts up to 5-6 months.

A characteristic feature of the landscapes of the Scandinavian Peninsula is the abundance of lakes. They are especially common within the Baltic Shield in Finland, where there are up to 60 thousand of them. Many lakes in Finland are exceptionally picturesque, with a quaint coastline and many wooded islands. Often entire chains of large and small lakes are connected by short rivers or wide channels, so that it is difficult to determine where one lake ends and another begins. A particularly large accumulation of lakes is characteristic of the central regions of Southern Finland - the so-called Lake District: flow from this territory is impeded by the crystalline and terminal moraine ridges surrounding it from the south and west. The area of most lakes in Finland is relatively small, but there are also large ones, such as Saimaa (1800 sq. km), Paijanne (1065 sq. km) and Inarijärvi (1050 sq. km). The largest lakes are located in the Central Swedish Lowlands and in the northern part of the Småland Highlands. This is Vänern - the largest lake in foreign Europe (5546 sq. km.), as well as lakes Vättern (about 1900 sq. km.), Mälaren and Elmaren, which are significantly inferior in area. Lakes occupy approximately 10% of the area of both Sweden and Finland.

The navigable importance of the rivers is small. Only the largest of them are suitable for navigation in certain areas, usually in the lower reaches. But all the rivers of Scandinavia are widely used for timber rafting. The hydropower significance of the rivers is especially great because the region is practically devoid of mineral fuel reserves. Hydroelectric power plants provide 99% of Norway's electricity needs, more than 60% of Sweden's, and 40% of Finland's. Cascades of hydroelectric power stations have been created on the rivers Luleälven (Sweden), Kemijoki (Finland), and on small rivers in Southern and Western Norway.

The most significant inland shipping route of the Scandinavian Peninsula is the so-called Getic system, connecting the Kattegat Strait and the Baltic Sea. This system consists of natural waterways and their complementary canals. Its total length is 420 km.

In terms of water availability per capita, the countries of the Scandinavian Peninsula stand out among the countries of foreign Europe, and in terms of hydropower reserves, Norway and Sweden are in first place.

3. Features of soil cover, flora and fauna

3.1 Soil and vegetation cover

The flora of the Scandinavian Peninsula is very diverse. Almost half of the territory (43%) is occupied by forests. Pine and spruce trees predominate on podzolic peat-bog soils. In the south there are mixed forests and broad-leaved forests.

Since most of the country is covered by mountains, plateaus and glaciers, opportunities for plant growth and development are limited. There are five geobotanical regions: a treeless coastal region with meadows and shrubs, to the east of it deciduous forests, further inland and to the north - coniferous forests, above and even further to the north a belt of dwarf birches, willows and perennial grasses; finally, at the highest altitudes there is a belt of grasses, mosses and lichens. Coniferous forests are one of Norway's most important natural resources and provide a variety of export products.

The vegetation cover of the Scandinavian Peninsula is dominated by coniferous forests. In the far north there are areas of typical lowland tundra and forest-tundra with mosses, lichens, berry bushes, dwarf birch, and juniper. But already a little south of the 70th parallel, the forest-tundra gives way to the northern taiga on gley-podzolic soils, and the tundra turns into mountains, forming a belt of mountain tundra, which occupies the upper parts of the slopes of the fields of the Scandinavian highlands and the uplands of Northern Finland. Among the mountain tundra there are areas of typical alpine meadows with cereal and forb vegetation. In this belt there are rich pastures where cattle are driven in the summer. In some areas of Norway in the highlands, artificial meadows have been created in drained areas.

Below the belt of high-altitude tundra vegetation, groves of twisted birches and alders are characteristic, which appear against the background of tundra vegetation, extending along river valleys far to the north. Lowland forest-tundras in Western Europe are common in Scandinavia and especially Finland. The length of this subalpine belt is about 100m in height, and in the south 200-300m. In addition to birch, the forests contain juniper, honeysuckle, dwarf willow and heather. In humid places, the forest has a lush grass cover of various beautifully flowering plants - geranium, lily of the valley, violets, sedges. Birch forests form not only the upper boundary of the forest in the mountains, but also the northern one: on the plains they also grow in the transition zone between the forest-tundra and coniferous forests.

The lower slopes of the Scandinavian Mountains and the vast plateaus and plains of eastern Scandinavia and Finland are covered with coniferous forests, which are the main vegetation type of Scandinavia and constitute the greatest natural wealth of Sweden and Finland. In the forests of Norway spruce predominates, in Sweden spruce and pine are represented approximately equally, although they rarely form mixed stands, and in Finland the dominant coniferous species is pine.

Between 61 and 60° N latitude. coniferous forests become mixed. In addition to spruce and pine, elm, maple, linden and various types of oaks grow in them. In the extreme south - on the Skåne Peninsula - beech appears. In the Central Swedish Lowlands and the coastal plain of Southern Finland, forests have been almost completely cut down and replaced by arable land, gardens and artificial forests. The western coast of the Scandinavian Peninsula and the coastal islands, exposed to humid and harsh winds from the ocean, are poorly surrounded. Heathlands with thick moss cover dominate here. They consist mainly of common or pink heather, with some Western European heather occurring in places. The heather is mixed with ferns, blueberries, lingonberries and sea buckthorn. Areas of heather thickets alternate with lawns and marshes, which are found mainly on the islands.

In foreign Europe, coniferous forests cover most of the Scandinavian Peninsula and Finland. They occupy plains and move to the slopes of the Scandinavian mountains, rising in the north to a height of 400-500 m, in the south - about 900 m. A continuous cover of coniferous forests exists in the north of Europe to approximately latitude 61°, and to the south broad-leaved species appear in the forests. The main coniferous trees of these forests are Norway spruce and Scots pine, and the closer to the ocean coast, the greater the role of spruce in the composition of the forests. In the west, in Norway, it predominates. In the more eastern regions of Sweden, spruce and pine are distributed approximately equally, although they do not form mixed stands, while in Finland pine dominates. This is due to a decrease in precipitation and an increase in continental climate from west to east.

The western coast of the Scandinavian Peninsula and the coastal islands, exposed to humid and harsh winds from the ocean, are much less forested. Heathlands with thick moss cover dominate here. Perhaps forests existed on the coast, but were destroyed and never recovered, since the conditions for their growth were unfavorable. However, heathers are largely the original type of vegetation of the Atlantic coasts. They consist mainly of common or pink heather, with some Western European heather occurring in places. The heather is mixed with ferns, blueberries, lingonberries and sea buckthorn. Areas of heather thickets alternate with lawns and marshes, which are found mainly on the islands. Coastal soils are usually poor and highly podzolized.

In the far south of Norway the picture changes. There, in places protected from the winds, especially at the mouths of large fjords, broad-leaved forests, bright green meadows and orchards appear, surrounding numerous villages.

Podzolic soils are common under coniferous forests. Depending on temperatures, moisture conditions, as well as on the predominance of certain forms of relief and the nature of surface deposits, these soils are represented by various variants, but all of them are characterized by low humus content, fragile fine-clump structure, high silica content and very low content of such elements, like phosphorus and calcium, an intensely acidic reaction of the soil solution. Most of Scandinavia and Finland are occupied by typically podzolic soils, among which there are areas of sphagnum or lowland bogs with peat-humus soils. Swampy forests and forest swamps, formed on waterproof crystalline rocks under conditions of excessive moisture, occupy more than 18 million hectares. In the north, gleyic-podzolic soils predominate. Due to the peculiarities of the chemical composition and structure, they are all infertile and, when developed, require significant reclamation work.

In the south of the Scandinavian Peninsula, spruce-broadleaf forests predominate

The areas adjacent to the North and Baltic Seas are characterized by the distribution of soddy-podzolic soils, and to the south and west - brown forest soils containing up to 6% humus, having a good structure, close to a neutral reaction and having significant fertility.

The forests of Fennoscandia have long been cut down, especially in places well-served by transport, or near the main rafting rivers. In recent decades, annual timber harvest has amounted to almost 110 million cubic meters, of which more than 10% is exported. At the same time, the Scandinavian countries themselves import significant volumes of industrial wood for industrial needs, primarily from Russia. In general, the region still has large forested areas. In Sweden, forests occupy more than 60% of the territory, in Norway - 25%, and in Finland - almost 70%. To a large extent, these are secondary forests, restored after logging, and artificial plantings. Despite the predominant natural regeneration in taiga forests, a whole complex of reclamation is used in forests (liming and fertilizing soils, draining wetlands, etc.), which significantly improve the conditions for the growth of valuable industrial species.

3.2 fauna

Forest animals predominate on the Scandinavian Peninsula. Most of the predators have been exterminated or are very rare. Bears, wolves, and foxes have almost completely disappeared. Many animals are protected. In the forests, sometimes even close to populated areas, squirrels live, red deer and roe deer are found, and various forest birds of commercial importance are common: hazel grouse, wood grouse and black grouse. Birds also abound on the sea coasts and offshore islands. Many waterfowl (ducks, geese, swans) are found in inland waters. Almost 60 wetlands with a total area of more than 500 thousand hectares are protected and included in the Ramsar Convention list as habitats of international importance.

The Norwegian lemming is the only animal endemic to Scandinavia. This rodent, which has yellow-brown fur (darker on the back, with black spots on the back of the head and shoulders), is distributed throughout the highlands and tundra, reaching in the north in treeless areas right up to the seashore. In some years, it appears in such huge numbers that its flocks completely cover large areas of the earth. In such years, lemmings migrate to other areas to get food, where they are not found at all under normal conditions. Old Norwegian lore says that people thought lemmings were falling from the sky when they suddenly appeared in places where people had never seen them before. In such years, lemmings can descend all the way to the shores of Vestlana, Oslofjord, and Telemark in large masses. Years of abundant lemming appearance are called "lemmenor" in Norway. Usually the centers of Lemmenor are limited to one mountain group - Hardanger, Dovre or Finnmark. Only rarely does lemmenor occur throughout the country at the same time (the last lemmenor was observed in 1944-1945).

Elk, whose main habitat is the coniferous forests of Ostlana and Vestlana, enters in the summer and above the forest line into areas where there is rich shrub vegetation, especially dwarf willow. Elk cause great damage to trees by eating their branches and bark. It is interesting that damage to forest trees is greater in winters with a lot of snow than in winters with little snow, since in the latter case not only trees, but also shrubs serve as food. A serious enemy of the elk is the wolf, which almost completely destroyed the elk at the beginning of the 18th century. But in the middle of the 19th century, when the wolf began to be intensively exterminated by humans, the number of moose began to increase rapidly. The squirrel, except in the coniferous forest area, is found, but much less frequently, in the deciduous forests of Vestland and Northern Norway.

The lynx is distributed only in northern and southern Trønnelag, rarely entering the adjacent mountain areas.

The hare, which lives throughout the country, from Sørland to the Finnmark coast and from the coast to the upper forest line, however, most often lives in forests with a bushy undergrowth. In summer it usually rises to the subalpine and alpine regions, and in winter it descends into the forests.

The fauna of the coastal waters of the Scandinavian Peninsula is very rich. In the coastal areas of the country there are a number of marine animals that spend some time on the shore. These include seals, walruses, bearded seals and otters. Of the seals, the common seal, sometimes called the fjord seal, is widespread along the entire coast of Norway, as it is a frequent visitor to the fjords. The seal's usual habitat is skerries, coastal and outer islands. In cases where there are no skerry archipelagos, the animal settles along the banks of fjords or rivers. For example, in Finnmark, seals were encountered on the Tana-elv river, where they go for fish (salmon) above Karas-Jokka at a distance of 290 kilometers from the river mouth. One species of seal is found in the Gulf of Bothnia. The fish wealth is great.

The fauna of the Baltic Sea, along with relict Arctic (for example, the Baltic seal) and North Atlantic elements, includes some freshwater species (bream, pike, now rare Baltic whitefish, etc.). The eel is one of the unique representatives of the ichthyofauna. The main commercial fish of the Baltic Sea is herring; cod, halibut, and sprat are also caught. A particularly valuable fish is Baltic salmon.

3.3 Protected areas

Protected natural areas, areas with a special regime of use for the purpose of preserving typical, characteristic, unique or particularly picturesque landscapes, as well as individual natural monuments of scientific, educational, cultural, historical or aesthetic interest. Abroad, including on the Scandinavian Peninsula, the main category of protected natural areas is national parks. Let's consider the national parks of states located on the Scandinavian Peninsula.

Sweden's national park system is managed by the Swedish Environmental Agency and includes 29 national parks. Another 6 parks are planned for creation by 2013. The goal of the National Park Service is to create a system of protected areas that would represent the diversity of the country's natural regions and would be used for research, recreation and tourism purposes without causing damage to nature. In 1909, the Swedish parliament passed the National Parks Act, making Sweden the first country in Europe to establish a national park system. Nine parks were opened in 1909, seven more between 1918 and 1962, then thirteen from 1982 to 2009.

Protected natural areas in Sweden:

.Sarek (national park)

.Abisko (national park)

.Tiveden (national park)

.Hamra (national park)

.Muddus (national park)

.Padyelantha (national park)

Sarek National Park is a national park in the municipality of Jokmokk, in the province of Lappland in northern Sweden. It borders the Stora Schöffallet and Padjelantha national parks. Sarek National Park is popular among hikers and climbers (but not suitable for beginners).

The shape of the national park resembles a circle with an average diameter of about 50 kilometers. Sarek only has two bridges; there are no established routes. In addition, the area in which it is located is one of the rainiest in Sweden, which makes walking in the park highly dependent on weather conditions.

The national park contains eight mountain peaks over 2000 meters high, among them the second highest mountain in Sweden - Sarekchokko. Climbing it takes a lot of time, which is why it remains practically impregnable.

At an altitude of 1800 meters above sea level, there is an observatory built in the early 1900s thanks to the efforts of Axel Gamberg.

There are about a hundred glaciers in Sarek National Park. Together with several other national parks in Sweden, Sarek is the oldest national park in Europe. The park has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1996, as part of Laponia.

Protected natural areas in Norway:

.Øvre Pasvik (national park)

.Ormtjernkampen (national park)

.Rago (national park)

.Evre Dividal (national park)

.Sør Spitsbergen (national park)

.Sassen-Bünsow Land (national park)

.Nordwest Spitsbergen (national park)

.Reisa (national park)

.Rondane (national park)

Rago National Park is located in the north of Norway between the E6 highway and the Swedish border in the municipality of Sørfall, Nordland county near the town of Fauske. It borders the Swedish national parks of Padjelanta, Sarek and Stora Sjöfollet, together forming one of the largest protected areas in Europe with an area of 5,700 square meters. km.

The park is known for its mountainous landscape with deep crevices, large boulders and sparse vegetation. It is a habitat for lynx and wolverine.

Nation ?linen pas ?rk Ro ?ndane (Norwegian: Rondane nasjonalpark) is a national park in central Norway, in the Rondane mountain range. Norway's very first national park, founded in 1962. In 2003, the territory of the park was significantly expanded; currently it is 963 km ². There are 10 peaks over 2000 m high in the park, the highest of which is Rondeslotte (2178 m). The park is home to reindeer herds, one of the largest in Norway.

Almost 90% of the parks' total area is mountainous, partly because the largest national parks in the north of the peninsula are the entirely mountainous Sarek and Padjelanta, each covering almost 200,000 hectares. The four northern parks - Sarek, Padjelanta, Stora Schöffallet and Muddus - make up Laponia, one of Sweden's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Skuleskogen National Park on the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia is included in the High Coast World Heritage Site. The southernmost parks - Söderåsen, Dalby Söderskog and Stenshuvud - are located in a natural deciduous forest area, covering almost 2,000 hectares together. Fulufjellet National Park is one of the parks of PAN, an organization founded by the World Wildlife Fund to ensure long-term conservation and tourism in national parks in Europe.

Conclusion

The rocks that make up the Scandinavian Peninsula are very ancient. Most of this territory, mainly within Finland and Sweden, belongs to the Baltic crystalline shield - the ancient "dark" of Europe, where Precambrian basement protrudes to the surface, and younger sedimentary rocks are almost completely absent. In the west, mainly in Norway, the Calydonian fold structures extend.

The western slopes of the Scandinavian Mountains fall towards the Norwegian and North Seas. The gentle eastern slopes descend in ledges to the Norrland Plateau located in northern Sweden. It slopes towards the Baltic Sea, is cut through by numerous river valleys and is covered with extensive coniferous forests.

Most of the Scandinavian Peninsula is in the temperate zone, while the far north is in the subarctic zone. The peculiarities of the location of the Scandinavian mountains, which play a barrier role in relation to moist air masses coming from the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the significant meridional extent, make the climate of the peninsula very diverse. Moreover, it is under the direct influence of the southwestern part of the Arctic oceans and their seas, which significantly soften the severity of its climate.

Warm currents, the “source” of which is the mighty Gulf Stream, have a great influence on the formation of natural conditions.

The most characteristic common feature of the geographical position of the countries of the Scandinavian Peninsula is their coastal, or, more precisely, maritime position. The sea has always played and continues to play a very important role in shaping the economy of the peninsula. It has a strong influence on the structure of the economy, the appearance of cities and economic regions.

Most of the rivers and lakes were formed in tectonic cracks that formed in the Neogene and were later processed by a glacier.

At present, forests on the western coast of the Scandinavian Peninsula have been almost completely destroyed. They were replaced by meadows and heathlands. The coasts of the Gulf of Bothnia and the Gulf of Finland are also deforested and occupied by cultivated lands, which account for less than 10% of the territory in Sweden and Finland. In the interior, despite long-standing deforestation, forests still cover most of the area (62% in Sweden and almost 70% in Finland), interspersed with lakes and swamps. Artificial plantings are carried out in places where clearings and drained swamps have been cleared, and currently forest areas and wood reserves in the area of coniferous forests are not decreasing, but are even increasing.

List of sources used

1Agapov, B.N. Six foreign countries: / B.N. Agapov. - M.: Nauka, 1977.

2Antoshko, Ya.F. History of the geographical study of the Earth: textbook. manual for universities / Ya.F. Antoshko. - M.: Higher School, 1968. - 315 p.

Atlas. Beginning geography course. - Mn.: RUE "Belkartografiya", 2004. - 139 p.

Ananyev, G.S. Geomorphology of continents and oceans / G.S. Ananyev, O.K. Leontyev. - M.: Nauka, 1987. -245 p.

5Vlasova, T.V. Physical geography of continents: textbook for universities / T.V. Vlasova. - M.: Mysl, 2006. - 345 p.

6Vlasov, T.V. Physical geography of continents and oceans: textbook. manual for universities / T.V. Vlasov. - M.: Education, 1998. - 267 p.

7Gvozdetsky, I.A. On foreign Europe: textbook. manual for universities // I.A. Gvozdetsky. - M.: Higher School, 1989.

8Gladky, Yu.N. Regional studies: textbook. manual for universities / Yu.N. Smooth. - M.: Nauka, 2003. - 176 p.

9Galai, I.P. Physical geography of continents and oceans: textbook. Part 2 / I.P. Galai, V.A. Zhuchkevich. G.Ya. Rylyuk. - M.: Nauka, 1988. - 167 p.

10Eramov, R.A. Workshop on the physical geography of continents: textbook. manual for universities / R.A. Eramov. - M.: Acropolis, 1987. - 312 p.

11Eramov, R.A. Physical geography of foreign Europe: textbook. manual for universities / R.A. Eramov. - M.: Mysl, 1983. - 242 p.

Zhuchkevich, V.A. Galliy I.P. Physical geography of continents and oceans: textbook for universities / V.A. Zhuchkevich [and others]. - Mn. : Nauka, 1988. - 196 p.

Isachenko, A.G. Basic issues of physical geography: textbook. manual for universities / A.G. Isachenko. - M.: Mysl, 1966. - 271 p.

Kalesnik, S.V. Fundamentals of general geoscience: textbook. manual for universities / S.V. Kalesnik. - M.: Mysl, 1953. -213 p.

Karopa, G.N. General geography: Course curriculum / G.N. Karopa. - Gomel: GSU im. F. Skorina, 2005. - 130 p.

Kirinskaya, V.A. Geography of continents and oceans: textbook. manual for universities / V.A. Kirinskaya. - M.: Mysl, 1993. - 185 p.

Okladnikova E.A. International tourism: textbook / E.A. Okladnikova. - M.: Omega-L, 2002. - 470 p.

18Pritula, T.Yu. Physical geography of continents and oceans: textbook. aid for students higher textbook establishments / T.Yu. Pritula, V.A. Eremina, A.N. Spryalin. - M.: Mysl, 2003. - 175 p.

19Puzanov, I.I. In the Swiss Alps / I.I. Puzanov. - M.: Education, 1986. - 212 p.

20Romanova, E.P. Natural resources of the world / E.P. Romanova, L.I. Kurakova, Yu.G.Ermakov. - M.: Education, 1993. -243 p.

21Romanova, E.P. Modern landscapes of Europe / E.P. Romanova. - M., 1997. Sukhovey, V.F. Seas of the World Ocean / V.F. Sukhovei. - M.: Nauka, 1986. - 276 p.

22Report by A.D. Scandinavia: guide / A.D. Rapost. - M.: Around the World, 2007.- 312 p.

Skibitsky A.V. Fundamentals of balneology: textbook / A.V. Skibnitsky, Rost. : Phoenix, 2008. - 450 p.

Khvostova D.O. Countries of the world: encyclopedic reference book / D.O. Khvostova. - M.: Olma-Media Group, 2007.-650 p.

Khropov A.G. Finland: travel guide / A.G. Khropov. - M.: Around the World, 2009.- 350 p.

26Yurtsevich, N.S. Geography of continents and countries / N.S. Yurtsevich. - Mn. : Higher School, 1996. - 342 p.

Essay

The course work contains 26 pages, 5 drawings, 26 sources.

Keywords : Scandinavian Peninsula, Scandinavian Mountains, climate, plains, animals, soil and vegetation cover.

Object of study : Scandinavian Peninsula.

Subject of study : interconnection of natural components of the Scandinavian Peninsula

Research methods: dialectical, historical, cartographic, comparative, geographical, spatial analysis.

Purpose of the course work : Purpose of the course work: to study the Scandinavian Peninsula

The objectives of the course work are:

Describe the geographical location, geological structure and relief of the Scandinavian Peninsula;

study the climate and hydrographic features of the Scandinavian Peninsula

Reveal the features of the soil cover, flora and fauna of the Scandinavian Peninsula.

Conclusions: The course work examined and described the general patterns of geological structure and relief, geographical location, climate and inland waters, features and diversity of natural zones and soil and vegetation cover of the Scandinavian Peninsula.

Tutoring

Need help studying a topic?

Our specialists will advise or provide tutoring services on topics that interest you.
Submit your application indicating the topic right now to find out about the possibility of obtaining a consultation.

The Scandinavian countries offer a harsh northern climate, the highest quality of life and a rather interesting culture.

Scandinavia is traditionally called the North of Europe, or rather three countries that are located on the Scandinavian Peninsula and adjacent islands: Norway, Sweden and Denmark. In a broad philistine sense, Iceland and Finland are also often classified as Scandinavian countries.

Historically, Scandinavia is a land of harsh Vikings - sailors, traders and robbers rolled into one. For a long time, the Scandinavians were a big headache for the surrounding tribes, as they regularly carried out brutal raids on their neighbors.

Scandinavia map

Scandinavian sagas about brave heroes are, in fact, stories about how one of the kings (local tribal rulers) went to foreign lands, gloriously plundered them, brought mountains of goods, and the whole tribe feasted for many days, glorifying their breadwinner. The richer the booty, the greater the feat in the eyes of his fellow tribesmen.

Some of the Vikings became famous not only for robberies, but also for great geographical discoveries (Eric the Red, for example). But this is rather a pleasant bonus - the Scandinavians went across the three seas in search of rich booty, and not out of love for the unknown.

Scandinavia - the birthplace of the Vikings

Visa to Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland: documents

All Scandinavian countries are part of the Schengen zone and have uniform rules for visa documents. The list includes:

A form that can be filled out for an electronic visa on the websites of Visa Application Centers of specific countries (see websites below)
A foreign passport valid for at least three months as of the date of return from the trip (for Iceland, you must also attach copies of each page of the passport with marks)
Photocopies of old Schengen visas (if they are pasted into the previous passport, attach a photocopy of its first page and the visas that are pasted into it)
2 color photos 3.5x4.5 cm on a white background (for Finland, the background needs a light gray)

Schengen visa to Sweden

Receipt of payment of application fees (can be paid at the visa application center)
A copy of the Russian Federation passport (all completed pages), children under 14 must attach a photocopy of the birth certificate, from 14 to 18 years old - both a photocopy of the saint and a photocopy of the Russian Federation passport (for Iceland a copy of all pages is required, even blank ones)
Certificate: for workers - from their place of work, for students and schoolchildren - from their place of study, and a bank certificate confirming the availability of an account
Hotel reservations can be made on Booking.com
Booking train, air or ferry tickets
Medical policy covering travel dates, coverage amount not less than 30,000 euros, In the “coverage area” column you must indicate “all Schengen countries”
Consent to the processing of personal data (the form can be found on the visa websites below)
Notarized consent to take a child to the Schengen area if one of the parents (or both) does not accompany the minor citizen of the Russian Federation on the trip

Consulate of Finland in St. Petersburg

Attention! Despite the general nature of the requirements, when applying for a visa to a specific Scandinavian country, additional nuances and document requirements may arise; please check with the Visa Centers for details.

More detailed information about the rules, terms and cost of a visa can be found on the following sites:

What language is spoken in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland?

In addition to common geography, the Scandinavian countries have a common culture and history. In each of the Scandinavian countries you will meet Finns, Swedes, Norwegians and representatives of small Scandinavian tribes and nationalities living there.

Sports fans from Sweden

The most common language in Scandinavia is Swedish: it is spoken by residents of Sweden and some citizens of Finland. In Finnish schools, basic learning of the Swedish language is included in the compulsory curriculum.

Finnish is the official language of Finland, which can also be found in Sweden and Norway in the form of different dialects of local Finnish communities

Iceland was a Danish protectorate for a long time, so Icelandic and Danish languages are found in both Denmark and Iceland. German is also spoken in Denmark.

In Norway, things are interesting with languages. Due to the huge variety of dialects in the country, there are two official Norwegian languages and two national scripts. In general, the Norwegian language is very close in origin to the Icelandic and Danish languages

The Sami are the most widespread ethnic group in Finland.

Most urban residents of Scandinavia can speak English (basic level).

What is the currency in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland?

All five countries have a single currency in official circulation: the euro. One euro is equal to 100 euro cents. Banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 euros, as well as coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 euro cents, 1 and 2 euros are in circulation.

Currency can be exchanged at bank branches and at hotel receptions. Bank cards are accepted for payment everywhere, and there are terminals in every locality.

Euro is the official currency of the Scandinavian countries

Time difference with Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland

The time difference between Moscow and the Scandinavian countries is:

Iceland, Reykjavik: -3 hours
Denmark, Copenhagen: -1 hour
Norway, Oslo: -1 hour
Finland, Helsinki: time coincides with Moscow
Sweden, Stockholm: -1 hour

The time difference with Moscow in Scandinavia is from 3 to 1 hour

New Year in Scandinavia: celebration, relaxation

Scandinavian countries are the most suitable place to celebrate the New Year. Somewhere, in the kingdom of eternal snow, there live real experts in winter entertainment and magical Christmas stories.

Winter holidays in the Scandinavian countries are, first of all, excellent excursions (read about the attractions of the Scandinavian countries below), and secondly, there are wonderful ski resorts (for more information about alpine skiing in Scandinavia, see).

But the main goal in Scandinavia, if you are traveling with children, is, of course, a trip to Santa Claus (or rather, to his Scandinavian brothers).

New Year in Scandinavia

Santa Claus Village in Finland

The largest residence of Santa Claus in Scandinavia is located near the Finnish city of Rovaniemi. Santa Park (that’s the name of the residence) is a whole fairy-tale city, which can be reached from Rovaniemi by regular bus in just 15 minutes.

In Santa Park you will find a lot of entertainment for children and adults: Mrs. Claus's gingerbread kitchen, the Post Office and Elf Toy Factory, reindeer sledding, ice rides and, of course, the main event for every visitor to Santa Park - a personal date with Santa Claus .

Santa Park is located on the edge of the Arctic Circle, where you can see the stunning aurora and be immersed in the polar night for days. The park has an official website in Russian, where you will find any additional information.

Santa Park in Rovaniemi, Finland

Residence of Santa Claus in Norway

In Norway, the residence of Santa Claus is located 300 km from Oslo in the town of Savalen. The local Santa Claus is called Julenissen, and his possessions are much more modest than the Finnish ones. But there is something to have fun here too.

You can visit Julenissen's office, where he reads letters from children, go to the local petting zoo with northern animals, treat yourself to ginger waffles and visit a gift factory.

In winter, not far from Julenissen's residence, a small ski resort with children's slopes opens. Dog sledding, reindeer sledding and snowmobiling are available. A good SPA center and Finnish sauna are open here all year round.

Tomteland - Santa Claus Village in Sweden

Where to find Santa Claus in Denmark?

Unfortunately, there is no Santa Claus village in the Kingdom of Denmark. But here every year you can see not just one, but hundreds of Santa Clauses from all over the world.

The World Santa Claus Congress traditionally takes place in July, lasts a whole week and includes in its program such important issues as the size of gingerbread cookies, the technique of moving in a chimney, the most fashionable gifts and much more.

During the congress in Copehagen, you can see the Santa Claus parade, take part in various shows and chat with real elves. See the official World Santa Claus Congres website.

World Santa Claus Congress in Denmark

Santa Claus in Iceland

Iceland is the most pagan of the Scandinavian countries, where Christian traditions have still not taken root very well, so Santa is a rather rare guest in Iceland. Instead of one kind grandfather, 15 harmful old men come to Icelandic children at once and instead of gifts they bring complete troubles.

In general, the presence of Santa Claus in Iceland is limited to branded mailboxes in which children drop their letters. But you won’t be able to meet directly with the local Santa Claus.

Yule - harmful Christmas old people in Iceland

Scandinavia Ferry Tours: Sweden, Finland

A very popular type of travel in the Scandinavian countries is ferry cruises from St. Petersburg. Tours are available all year round; you can purchase such a trip at any travel agency in Russia.

The routes and duration are different - from 3 days to two weeks. The price includes travel by bus from St. Petersburg to Helsinki, then the journey continues in a cabin (the level of comfort depends on your choice) of a modern ferry vessel.

Ferry boat on a cruise in Scandinavia

The ferry provides food, entertainment, souvenir kiosks and shops. The ferry stops daily in one of the Scandinavian capitals. Group excursions around the city are offered on board. If you wish, you can take a walk on your own.

Some programs require overnight stays in a hotel for 1-2 nights (the choice of hotel category can also be made when ordering a tour).

The big advantage of such trips is the presence of a Russian-speaking escort, an expedited procedure for obtaining a visa and a certain comfort: you don’t feel the sway on the ferry, you live an ordinary hotel life here, but every day your “hotel” ends up in a new place - compared to bus excursions, this is huge plus.

You can roughly estimate the cost of traveling by ferry.

Cabin on a ferry boat in Scandinavia

Bus tours in Scandinavia

Bus tours to Scandinavia are another opportunity to see as many sights as possible in Northern Europe in one trip. Groups depart from St. Petersburg. The first leg of the journey usually involves a ferry to one of the Scandinavian countries, then you transfer to a bus and continue your journey.

Tours can be combined in different ways: duration, route and options for ferry and bus transportation depend on your wishes and specific tour operator programs. Within one tour, you can choose hotel categories and cabin comfort levels.

You can view options for ready-made bus tours around Scandinavia.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Scandinavian countries

Sweden

Sweden is the most Scandinavian of all the Nordic countries. This country gave the world Carlson, the ABBA group, IKEA furniture and the Nobel Prize. The main values of the Swedes are practicality, simplicity and restraint.

Sweden is a monarchy, but the king shares power with parliament and is more of an honorary figurehead. The Swedes adore their king, love everything with the prefix “eco”, and adhere to the ironclad rule “do not harm nature.” Interesting fact: in Sweden it is allowed to enter private property and walk on other people's lands, provided they treat nature with care.

Stockholm, Sweden

Summer holidays, attractions of Sweden

The most notable museums in Sweden: Vasa Ship Museum, Nobel Museum (interactive gallery of award winners), National Museum of Sweden (painting exhibition), Stockholm Architecture Museum (very strange building models), Stockholm Historical Museum (Viking treasures), Stockholm Natural History Museum (very interesting for children because many interactive exhibits) and the Museum of the Middle Ages (all about knights).

Vasa Ship Museum, Sweden

The most interesting castles and fortresses: Vadstena Abbey (14th century monastery), Gripsholm Castle (royal residence), Drottingholm Castle (local Versailles), Örebro, Malmö and Kalmar castles (dark Middle Ages)

Orebro Castle, Sweden

Globe Arena and Skyview– a venue for world-class sports competitions and concerts – a modern building with a huge spherical dome, to the top of which there is a special capsule funicular. The highest point of the funicular is at a bird's eye view and offers panoramic views of Stockholm in full view.

Globe Arena and Skyview lift in Sweden

Skansen– open-air folklore museum. This is an entire village that represents the traditional way of life in Sweden in the 19th-20th centuries. The village is “populated” by actors-animators in national costumes, who play the role of artisans, traders and ordinary people.

Skansen Museum in Sweden

Gamla Stan– the old center of Stockholm, a colorful medieval area with urban development traditional for Scandinavia at that time

Gamla Stan district in Sweden

Longholmen Prison– a former medieval dungeon, which currently houses a museum, restaurant and hotel at the same time. Hotel guests are provided with a prison uniform (optional), and on the walls of the rooms, which were once prison cells, information about their most famous prisoners is posted.

Hotel-prison in Longholm. Sweden

Royal Palace in Stockholm– the current residence of the Swedish monarchs, which is available for visits by tourists.

Unibakken- the town-museum of the Swedish storyteller Astrid Lindgren, inhabited by the heroes of her works: “Baby and Carlosn”, “Pippi Longstocking”, “Madiken and Pims from Junibakken”.

Junibakken Park, Sweden

Emporia– a mega-shopping center in Malmö, a mecca for local and visiting shopaholics, 200 stores of shoes, clothing and household items, as well as very unusual interiors.

What to bring from Sweden?

A figurine of a moose is a national symbol, the most popular souvenir
Swedish crystal - high quality products and extremely unusual designs
Swedish chocolate is not inferior in quality to Swiss and Belgian
Clothing - Swedish brands are almost unknown in Russia, but are highly valued in Europe for their quality and practicality

Moose figurine - a traditional souvenir from Sweden

Norway

Norway is a land of brave discoverers (the most famous are Thor Heyerdahl and Fridtjof Nansen), Norwegian fjords and, oddly enough, very friendly people. The harsh Nordic character here is manifested in everything: in the local landscapes of the harsh North, in folk legends, heroic figures of the Norwegians and their traditional entertainment.

Oslo is the capital of Norway

Recreation in summer and winter, attractions of the kingdom

Royal Palace in Oslo- the residence of the Norwegian kings, who are alive and rule the country to this day. The palace is open to tourists, but group tours are only in Swedish; to tour with an English- or Russian-speaking guide, you must make a reservation in advance.

Royal Palace in Oslo, Norway

Vigeland Park– a huge exhibition of sculptures (more than 200) by the Swedish sculptor Gustav Vigeland (in some places his work is strongly reminiscent of Tsereteli).

Bryggen- a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a medieval embankment quarter in the center of Bergen, which is familiar to almost everyone from tourist postcards and booklets of Norway.

Bryggen - promenade in Bergen, Norway

Oslo History Museum– an archaeological, ethnographic and art museum in one bottle, a huge exhibition.

Heni Unst Center d – museum of modern art and cultural center. Installations by local artists and concerts of ethnic music will drive the most sophisticated connoisseurs of modern artistic expressions crazy.

Norwegian Armed Forces Museum– an exhibition of weapons, camping equipment and the soldier’s life of Norwegian warriors from the early Viking era to the Second World War.

Sculpture in the center of Heni Unstad, Norway

Museums in honor of famous Norwegians:“Kon-Tiki” (about Thor Heyerdahl), Ibsen’s house-museum, Trollhaugen (Edvard Grieg’s estate), Exhibition-museum of paintings by Munch (the author of the famous painting “The Scream”).

Rosencrantz Tower and Hawkons Hall– an early medieval fortification and residence of King Haakon Haakonsson of Norway (XIII century).

Norwegian Museum of Ethnography– a folklore city with active infrastructure (craft shops, church, farm), interactive exhibitions (village and city life) and natural houses, carefully moved from different parts of Norway.

Haakon's Palace and Rosencrantz Tower, Norway

Cruises in the Norwegian Fjords. Fishing in Norway

Fjords of Norway

Norwegian fjords (bays) are a unique terrain that was formed during the Ice Age. A prehistoric glacier left deep cracks and fissures in the rocks of Norway, which eventually filled with water.

The fjords are the real pride of Norwegians and one of the main attractions for which tourists from all over the world come to this harsh northern region.

Hardangerfjord, Norway

The most famous fjords in Norway: Hardangerfjord (blooming fruit trees, mild climate, waterfalls), Geirangerfjord (picturesque villages and the best fishing), Lysefjord (inaccessible mesmerizing cliffs), Sognefjord (glacier, national park and fairy-tale houses along the banks).

The best way to travel through the Norwegian fjords is a cruise, which will allow you to see the most inaccessible shores and stunning panoramic views of the coastline. Cruises come in different durations (usually a week) and a wide variety of routes (the entire coastline of Norway is indented with hundreds of bays of various sizes).

Fjord cruises run from April to October. You can see approximate programs and costs of fjord cruises.

Sognefjord, Norway

Fishing in Norway

Fishing in Norway is not just a hobby, but something akin to a national sport and a local attraction in one bottle. In any travel guide you will find “Fishing in Norway” among the first suggestions on the list.

The most popular among tourists are sea fishing and fishing in the fjords. Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream, the local waters are simply teeming with marine reptiles of various sizes, so even the most novice fishermen will be lucky. Typically, fishing is offered as a separate excursion on land-based tours and as entertainment on board cruise ships.

Sea fishing in Norway

What to bring from Norway?

A figurine of a troll, a favorite folklore character of the Norwegians, or a small copy of a Viking boat
Norwegian aquatite is an alcoholic drink made from potatoes and caraway seeds, which (attention!!!) is specially sent on ships to Australia and back so that a bottle of aquatite crosses the equator twice - only this way, according to the Norwegians, allows the drink to achieve the desired strength and consistency ( Equator crossing dates and ship name are indicated on each bottle)
Branded knitted items with ornaments
Brown Norwegian cheese "Brunost"
Smoked salmon and other seafood
Rosemaling - a cute trinket with a traditional Norwegian floral design

Troll figurine - the best souvenir from Norway

Finland

Finland stands somewhat apart from all the Scandinavian countries. The Scandinavians themselves tease the Finns for their slowness. This is a traditionally rural, sleepy country that cannot boast of big cities and luxury excursion options. But Finland has a unique charm of secluded, slow life that attracts tourists so much.

Jyvaskyla, Finland

Recreation in summer and winter, fishing, attractions

Sveaborg– a sea fort of the 18th century, on the territory of which there are currently historical, military and architectural museums.
Karelian house in Imatra– an open-air folklore museum about the life of the Sami in the 19th century.
Tsar's dacha in Kotka– house-museum of the family of Alexander III, summer residence of the king and his entourage. The original interior and personal belongings of the king have been preserved.
Sculpture Park in Imatra- a section of forest in which about 500 sculptures by Finnish artist Veje Renkkenen are exhibited. The sculptures are so bizarre and frightening that the park as a whole gives the impression of a rather mystical place.

Sculpture Park in Imatra, Finland

Aleksanterinkatu– the central shopping street of Helsniki, the most fashionable place in the capital of Finland.
Moomin Valley- theme park, one of the best children's parks in the world. The park is populated by life-size puppets of book characters, and its landscape recreates the scenes described in Tove Jansson’s fairy tales.
Fishing- a favorite entertainment for tourists on numerous lakes in Finland. A stunning catch is guaranteed. Particularly fanatical fishermen rent comfortable wooden cottages on the shores for two or three days to fully enjoy the experience. You can find suitable houses and cottages on the website Booking.ru

Moominvalley, Finland

What can you bring from Finland?

Finka (puukko in Finnish) is a traditional hunting knife.
A figurine or souvenir depicting a mummy troll
Kuksa – Finnish wooden mug
Liquorice - Finnish candy with a very strange taste
Lapponia or Minttu – signature berry and mint liqueur
Branded sauna accessories

Kuksa - a branded mug from Finland

Denmark

Denmark is a small fairy-tale country, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen. Of all the Scandinavian countries, Denmark is the most interesting in terms of attractions and historical monuments.

Denmark's small size means you don't have to spend a lot of time traveling between cities. Wherever you stay, you'll have easy access to most Danish attractions. You can choose a suitable hotel for accommodation on the website Booking.com.

The Little Mermaid is a symbol of Copenhagen, Denmark

Recreation, attractions of the Kingdom of Denmark

Amalienborg- the residence of the Danish kings, who live there to this day. Despite the presence of royalty, the palace is accessible to tourists, albeit at different times and with some restrictions. Every day at noon, a solemn changing of the guard ceremony takes place in front of the palace.

There are two scenarios for the ceremony: a solemn one, if the royal couple is in the palace (then the state flag is raised above it) and a shortened one, if the queen and her family are away.

Amalienborg Palace, Denmark

Copenhagen City Hall- the tallest building in the city. A colonnade is available for inspection, to the top of which you will have to walk up a steep spiral staircase, as well as some interior rooms, one of which houses Olsen’s astronomical clock, the most accurate clock mechanism in the world.

Copenhagen City Hall, Denmark

Christianshavn- a separate commune of Copenhagen, a “city within a city”, located in a historical fortress of the 17th century. The commune has its own rules and laws, for example, a ban on motor vehicles and the free sale of cannabis. In fact, this is a large hippie community, where it is interesting to look, but you hardly want to stay there: mild anarchy and unsanitary conditions reign throughout Christiania.

Building in Christianshavn, Denmark

Numerous palaces and fortresses of Denmark: Odense (15th-century monastery), Frederiksborg (royal palace and knight's museum), Vallo (medieval shelter for homeless women, which is still in operation), Kronborg (scene of Shakespeare's Hamlet), Sønderborg (fortress founded by the great-grandson of Vladimir Monomakh, Valdemar the Great) , Hammershus (the oldest fortress in Denmark) and others.

Kronborg Fortress, Denmark

Andersen's world- a museum dedicated to the work of the Great Danish Storyteller, as well as the Andersen Museum in Odense - an exhibition about the life and creative path of the writer. The museum has an interesting interactive exhibition that allows visitors to feel like the hero of one of Andersen’s fairy tales or plunge into the historical era of the times when fairy tales were written.

Monument to Andersen in Odense, Denmark

Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum is a rich private collection of awkward things, puzzles, funny incidents, stupid stories and interesting facts from all over the world. This is the strangest museum collection, where they will tell you how to kill a vampire, show you a cow with two heads, amuse you with obscene jokes, tell you about different types of farts and surprise you in many other very sophisticated ways.

Ripley Museum, Copenhagen, Denmark

Museums and parks in Denmark: National Art Gallery of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsen Museum (sculptures), Glypotek Carlsberg (art objects from different eras), Royal Library of Denmark, National Museum of Denmark and others.
Amusement parks: Legoland in Billund (the largest theme park in the world, in which everything except the rides is built from LEGO parts), and Tivoli Park (one of the oldest amusement parks in Europe, where you can ride rides from the late 19th to early 20th century).

Denmark in miniature, Legoland Museum, Copenhagen

What to bring from Denmark?

Gammel Dansk is a traditional local alcoholic drink that the Danes drink with or without reason: as an aperitif, for colds, for breakfast instead of coffee, in the heat for cooling, and so on.
Danish marzipans are signature sweets that are produced here in huge quantities and in different varieties.
Danish cheeses, especially Danablu - a crumbly blue cheese
The best New Year's decorations in the world
Branded LEGO sets and construction sets
Handmade jewelry of very high quality and original Scandinavian design

Jewelry from Denmark

In many ways, Iceland deserves the epithet “the best” - the highest prices in all of Europe, the most stunning landscapes, the most closed lifestyle, the strangest and most mysterious traditions, the most blond blondes, the northernmost country in Europe.

Holidays and attractions in Iceland

Reykjavik Town Hall- a strange futuristic building of the city administration, the premises of which often host exhibitions, cultural events and concerts. Here you can also see a unique 3D map of Iceland
Thingvellir– national park, UNESCO World Heritage Site

Hallgrimskirkja Church, Iceland

Hallgrimskirkja– a Lutheran church whose modern architecture is designed to amaze visitors to Reykjavik with a futuristic style, but in fact seems to cause an aesthetic shock
Imagine Peace- a unique monument designed by Yoko Ono, which she simultaneously dedicated to her husband, the song “Imagine” and all the people of the planet. The structure is a concrete well, on the walls of which the inscription “Imagine peace” is engraved in different languages of the world, and from the depths of the well, powerful spotlights direct vertical rays of light, which create an optical column stretching into the heavens

View of Reykjavik, the Imagine Peace Tower and the skylight, Iceland

Esya- an ancient extinct volcano on the outskirts of Reykjavik, which is considered the patron saint of the city (unlike other Europeans, whose patrons are entirely Saints, Icelanders remained faithful to their pagan roots)
Perlan– a cultural center and part-time boiler room (whatever Icelanders can come up with) – the most fashionable venue for cultural events in Reykjavik. There is also a restaurant, shops, a museum and a winter garden here.

Video. Iceland

Video. Denmark, Copenhagen

Video. Norway

Video. Finland, Lapland

Video. Sweden: 10 interesting facts

Noun, number of synonyms: 1 region (20) ASIS Dictionary of Synonyms. V.N. Trishin. 2013… Synonym dictionary

Scandinavia- (Scandinavia), north. part of Europe; traditionally it includes Denmark, Norway and Sweden; in a broader sense, this region also includes Finland, Iceland and the North Atlantic islands, which were part of the sphere of influence of the North over the last thousand years. In ... The World History

Scandinavia- (Scandinavia)Scandinavia, part of the north. zap. Europe, occupying the Scandinavian Peninsula, bounded by the Arctic Ocean in the north, the Atlantic in the west, the Baltic Sea in the south, and the Gulf of Bothnia in the east. Although only Norway and ... ... are located on the peninsula. Countries of the world. Dictionary

The Scandinavian peninsula in the north of Europe, with its northeastern side bordering Russia for 520 km, occupies the space from 4° to 31°5. duty. and from 55°29 to 71°10 north. lat. between the Arctic Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean,... ... Encyclopedic Dictionary F.A. Brockhaus and I.A. Ephron

Scandinavia- Scandinavian air, and... Russian spelling dictionary

Scandinavia- in antiquity times S. was considered about it. Thule, about whom Pytheas wrote, did not appear. all of Norway (as Procopius later claimed), but only part of it (Norway). In the 5th century BC. mor. The Roman expedition reached the Cimbri foothills (Cape Skagen on the North Peninsula... ... Ancient world. encyclopedic Dictionary

Scandinavia- (lat. Scadinavia, also Skatinavia, Scandinavia, then Skandia). Name it is associated with the area called Skane in Swedish. In ancient times, S. was considered an island. Thule, which Pytheas wrote about, is not the whole of S. (as he later claimed ... Dictionary of Antiquity

Scandinavia: Scandinavia is a historical and cultural region in northern Europe. Scandinavian peninsula in northern Europe. The Scandinavian Mountains are a mountain system on the Scandinavian Peninsula. Scandinavia (road) part... ... Wikipedia

- ... Wikipedia

Books

Scandinavia, Pavlyuk Semyon. You are holding a new generation guidebook in your hands! He will show you the best cities in Scandinavia. In the book you will find many unique routes that will help you make an unforgettable…
Scandinavia. Literary panorama. Issue 2, . The collection "Scandinavia. Literary Panorama" is intended to acquaint the Soviet reader with the best works of Scandinavian writers - both modern and classic. In the second issue...