Tromsø (city)

For the municipality, see Tromsø.

69.6489°N 18.9551°E / 69.6489; 18.9551

Tromsø
City
View of Tromsø
Coat of arms
Area [1]
• Total	21.25 km2 (8.20 sq mi)
Population  (2007 estimate)[2]
• Total	64,492

Tromsø (Norwegian pronunciation: [ˈtrʊ̂msœ] (listen); Northern Sami: Romsa) is a city in Troms county, Norway. It is located on the island of Tromsøya, just off the mainland of Northern Norway. The city has an estimated population of 64,492 people^[2] and an area of 21.25 square kilometres (8.20 sq mi).^[1] It is the largest urban area in Northern Norway.^[2][3]

Economy

The University of Tromsø and University Hospital of North Norway are the largest workplaces in the city. The fishing industry is also important, and Tromsø is home to the headquarters of Norges Råfisklag and Norges sjømatråd (seafood council).

Geography

Tromsø is located in the Arctic region on the island Tromsøya.^[4] It is surrounded by mountains. The highest one, called Tromsdalstinden, has an elevation of 1,238 metres (4,062 ft) above sea level.^[5]

Tromsø is also surrounded by fjords. The Ullsfjorden is a notable one east from Tromsø.^[6] These fjords make it possible to engage in activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Wildlife

The waters around Tromsø are home to different types of sea animals, such as Atlantic cod, herring, seals, and whales. The yearly whale migration can be seen in Tromsø. Humpback whales, orcas, and fin whales can be seen in the fjords during the migration.^[7][8][9]

Tromsø is also home to many land animals. The mountains and forests are a place to live for reindeer, Arctic foxes, and many types of birds. Seabirds like puffins, kittiwakes, and guillemots can be seen.^[10][11]

Climate

Tromsø is warmer than other places at the same latitude, thanks to the warming effect of the Gulf Stream. However, the Gulf Stream is showing signs of uncertainty because of global warming.^[12][13][14] The city center of Tromsø has the highest number of old wooden houses in Northern Norway, with the oldest house dating back to 1789. The city is a cultural center for the region, with several festivals taking place in the summer.

History

Tromsø has a long history, with evidence of people living there from at least 10,000 years ago.^[15][16] The area was first settled by the indigenous Sámi, who still live there today. In the 13th century, Norwegians started to settle in the area and Tromsø grew into an important trading post. The city became a centre for fishing and whaling, which were important industries for many years.^[17]

Tromsø also has a big role in polar exploration. Many expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic regions started in Tromsø, including those of Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen. During World War II, Tromsø was occupied by the Germans, and there were many battles fought in the area.^[17]