Svalbard – this remarkable archipelago, located almost halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole – offers breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary wildlife. Adventurers, scientists, and curious travellers from all over the world are drawn here, and a small number of people live here year-round. We've gathered 10 fun facts you might not know about this unique place.
1. Over 50 nationalities are represented on Svalbard
Since no visa or work permit is required to live on Svalbard (as long as you can support yourself), the archipelago has become home to people from all over the world. However, there is no social safety net, and if you lack an income, you may be asked to leave the archipelago.
2. You can neither be born nor buried here
Due to the permafrost, which prevents bodies from decomposing, it is no longer permitted to be buried on Svalbard. There is also no maternity ward at the hospital in Longyearbyen, and pregnant women are usually flown to the mainland a couple of weeks before their due date.
3. There are no roads between the settlements
Forget road signs and car trips. The communities on Svalbard have no road connections – here, people get around by boat, plane/helicopter, or snowmobile.
4. Anyone leaving the settlement must carry a rifle
It is required by law to carry a firearm outside inhabited areas – in case of a possible encounter with a polar bear.
5. The world’s seed treasure hidden in the mountain
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault serves as a global backup for the world's cultivated plants – a so-called "Doomsday Vault" where seeds from all over the world are stored deep inside the mountain.
6. Cats are banned
There are no cats on Svalbard. They are prohibited because they pose a threat to the fragile birdlife. Even indoor cats are not allowed.
7. The world’s northernmost brewery
Svalbard Bryggeri in Longyearbyen is known for brewing beer using water partly sourced from the Bogerbreen glacier, which is over 2,000 years old.
8. Unexpected plant life
The Arctic climate, permafrost, and rugged terrain mean that less than 10% of the landmass has vegetation. Despite this, everything from hardy mosses and lichens to small flowering plants grows here during the short but intense summer. Svalbard is home to no fewer than 164 native plant species – along with a few introduced by humans.
9. All houses are built on stilts
On Svalbard, houses are built on stilts to prevent heat from the buildings from melting the permafrost. If the ground thaws, the houses risk sinking or becoming damaged.
10. No sunset for months
From mid-April to late August, the sun never sets over Svalbard. Day and night blend together under the midnight sun, offering unique opportunities for round-the-clock activities.
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