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Qaqortoq

Description: Qaqortoq (Danish: Julianehåb) is a town in southwestern Greenland located at approximately 60°43′N, ... more

Qaqortoq ... 46°02′W. With a population of 3,100, it is South Greenland's most populous town. The name is western Greenlandic and means "[the] white [one]". Qaqortoq is the seat of the Municipality of Qaqortoq which, apart from the town itself, includes three small settlements. Qaqortoq was founded by Norwegian trader Anders Olsen in 1775. Near Qaqortoq are the Hvalsey ruins, the most prominent Norse ruins in Greenland.

Newest Review: ... The blacksmith’s shop, which was built in yellow stone in 1871, now houses the Qaqortoq museum. This is one of the best museums I have seen. It shows Greenland culture right through the Ages. Displaying drawings and photographs, of later times. There is a large collection of tools and artefacts from the Dorset, Thule, Norse and Greenlandic cultures. Behind the harbour is the Kalaallit ... more

... Nunaata Ammerivia tannery, which makes sealskins into fur coats. Even if you do not agree with this activity it is one of the mainstays of their economy, (after Danish subsidies!!). Overlooking the harbour is Vatican Hill. The red house at the top was o...more

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Qaqortoq (408 words)
by 1maryanne - written on 05/10/00 (Very useful, 50 readings)
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Qaqortoq when translated means “The White Place” and although there are only just over 3,000 inhabitants it is still regarded as “The Big City”. It is also the hub of life in South Greenland. It is naturally centred around the harbour where you can find trawlers, cargo ships and some yachts belonging to the more adventurous traveller. The fact that icebergs are often found in the harbour is just a reminder of how far North we are and of the hazards of these Arctic waters. The black-tarred log building on the waterfront was shipped to Greenland log by log in 1797. It was designed by the Danish royal architect, Kirkerup and ...

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