Which state has the largest island. What is the largest island in the world

uninhabited islands almost gone. But the soul of a tourist still asks for extreme sports. Would go to the most big Island on the ground!

And better - the three largest. And it does not matter that they are located where it is either very cold or too hot. You can embrace everything with an inquisitive tourist soul.

Greenland (2,130,800 km²): land of glaciers and fjords

It is not known whether this island was the "Green Land" when discovered by the Vikings in the 10th century. But today it would be more correct to call this land "White Land".

It is over 80% covered eternal ice, and the 58,000th population lives only on the coast of the Atlantic and Arctic oceans.

Proximity to the North Pole is an extreme for the modern tourist. There is no ancient cities and amazing architectural monuments. The most icy and largest island on Earth is a paradise for connoisseurs of unusually bright and majestic northern landscapes, the beauty of icebergs and white nights, unique flora and fauna.

This is interesting:

1. Icebergs. On drifting in the sea ice mountains reflecting all the colors of the rainbow on their sides, you can watch for hours.
2. Thermal springs. Great pleasure - to swim in the Arctic Circle in crystal clean water, heated to 40 ° C, among icebergs.
3. Colorful cities of Greenland. Probably, only here people paint their houses so earnestly, which look like the scenery of a northern fairy tale. And it's great to see the polar lights here!
4. Festivals of Ilulissat. Having visited the main attractions of the city (Knut Rasmussen Museum and the Cold Museum), it is worth going to dance festival local aborigines. You will definitely enjoy racing dog sledding and polar bear hunting!

New Guinea (786,000 km²): Tropical Eden

This is the largest of the islands divided between different countries.

Known to us, first of all, from the travels of Miklouho-Maclay, the island still amazes the traveler with its fantastic nature how he struck the famous Russian pioneer of the 19th century. New Guinea still belongs to the poorly studied corners of the Earth.

In general, if you look for a real lost World, then it's here. Recently, a vast area was discovered on the island, where plants and animals unknown to science blithely live. Moreover, the inhabitants of New Eden (as they called this paradise) are not afraid of people at all.

This is interesting:

1. Surfing and diving. This is the only way to enjoy the views of the most picturesque coral reefs on the planet. Useful inspection of numerous ships and aircraft that sank during the Second World War. Best Places dives - Rabaul, Kimby Bay, Madang.
2. Varirata National Park. Numerous viewing platforms, suspension bridges- a great chance to fully appreciate the beauty of the surrounding hills and rainforest. It is recommended to visit the "Tree-house", the center of cult worship of the Papuan tribe Koyaris.
3. Bayer - river reserve. Being on the most beautiful mountain slopes, this nature reserve gives rise to several island rivers and wild trails where exotic birds of paradise, cassowaries, kangaroos and possums roam freely.
4. Art gallery and National Museum papua new guinea. The island is rich not only in nature, but also cultural monuments. Here are collected tens of thousands of unique anthropological and archaeological exhibits, relics of the military past and masterpieces of contemporary local art.
5. Turtle Beach. A whole kilometer is dazzling white sand and gentle sea. There are all amenities.

Kalimantan (743,330 km²): an ethnographer's paradise

Divided between three states (Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei), the island attracts lovers of tropical sun and warm azure sea. Travelers are offered exquisite service.

In the local impenetrable jungle, covering 80% of the area of ​​Kalimantan, wild tribes of aborigines live. The terrible traditions of cannibalism and hunting for human skulls, which rampaged in these places several decades ago, have been replaced by original songs and martial dances.

In any case, there is a lot of interesting things in Kalimantan both for lovers of folklore and for “hunters” of active volcanoes, and for those who prefer to spend time peacefully on ecologically clean sea beaches.

This is interesting:

1. City of Pontianak. focus the most interesting museums and architectural monuments, including the ancient mosque of Abdurrahman, the palace of the Sultan Kadriah, the Pontianak Museum, which contains ancient porcelain and ceramic products made by indigenous tribes.
2. Banjarmasin. A city of slender minarets, canals and floating markets.
3. diamond mines. Here and today in reality you can see how in the very recent past the islanders were hard to mine precious stones.
4. cannibalou - national park . Unforgettable sensations are promised by a leisurely walk through its territory. Here you can see many rare plants and animals, the most beautiful 10-meter waterfall Kippungit, plunge into the pool with healing springs.

This is just a small part of the tourist treasures that the largest islands in the world have. Let the rest of the sights remain a secret for tourists, which is recommended to be explored on your own, having set off.

over half a million. Some of them have natural origin, others are the result of climate change, natural phenomena or human activities. Do you know the answer to the question: "What is the largest island on Earth?"

Gorgeous Greenland

Greenland is considered the largest piece of land in the middle of the oceans. Its territory is equal to 2.176 million square kilometers, which is approximately 1/8 of the whole of Russia. Almost all of the land is covered with glaciers, so Greenland is considered a sparsely populated country. It is permanently inhabited by all
15,000 people. Are considered heavy climatic conditions. thermometer chart in winter period drops to - 47 C. V summer time the maximum mark reaches + 10 C.

New Guinea

The island is smaller than Greenland. Its territory is 786 thousand sq. km. It lies on the route between Asia and Australia in pacific ocean. Despite the small territory, two states are located here: Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. The second independent entity is home to about
7.5 million people. That is, for each square kilometer there are about 10 people each - a fairly low figure compared to other countries with good weather conditions for life.

Borneo (Kalimantan)

Slightly inferior to New Guinea. The area of ​​the island, located next to the Philippines, is 743 sq. km. However, its territory is densely populated - about 16 million people live here. Borneo is surrounded by the islands of Java and Sumatra, next to the Malay Peninsula. Distinctive feature Kalimantan is that two rivers with the same names flow through it, one of which has received the status of the longest among the islands.

Madagascar

Close to the coast South Africa there is an amazing reserve with unusual fauna. Madagascar occupies 587 thousand square kilometers. The island stretches for 1500 km in length, its width is only 600 km. It leads in terms of population in the category "What is the largest island in the world." There are about 20 million permanent residents here, that is, 1300 more than in Greenland.

baffin land

The island belongs to Canada. Its location is determined at the same latitude as that of Greenland. The climate is harsh and difficult conditions for life. It is for this reason that on a land plot of 507 sq. km. only 11 thousand people live.

Sumatra

In sixth position in the list of "What is the largest island in the world" is Sumatra, which belongs to Indonesia. The area of ​​the island is
473 thousand sq. km. Geographically, the area is notable for the fact that after the eruption of the Toba volcano on its territory, glacial period. A huge funnel 100 m wide was formed here.

Honshu

The size of Honshu is much smaller than the other listed islands, and is only 228 thousand square kilometers. But it is considered densely populated - 103 million people live on it. Despite the high demographic level, the territories are technically developed. Honshu is a huge metropolis with over 35 million people.

There are about 500 thousand islands in our world. They are different in size. Today we take you to the largest islands of our world.

Greenland

New Guinea

kalimantan

Madagascar

baffin land

Sumatra

O. Great Britain

The largest island in the world is Greenland. This conclusion was unanimously reached by all researchers and scientists, as a result of numerous expeditions and analysis of available data. By a strange coincidence, the island itself large area, is less than half populated. The thing is that the territory of Greenland is 80 - 85% covered with eternal ice, the thickness of which reaches several kilometers. The spacious territory allows villages and cities to be located here at a significant distance. The most interesting thing is that, between the settlements, there is completely no transport system. There are no railroad tracks or highways.

Despite the rather cold climate and the monotony of the surrounding landscape, the largest island is very popular with tourists. They come here to get vivid impressions, to see the stunningly beautiful " northern lights and long white nights.

The most common occupation of local residents is fishing, its processing and sale. This remains the main activity of the entire (almost 60,000 population). In addition to fish, on the island a large number of polar predators. There are plants that are not afraid of the cold.

Temperature fluctuations on the island are quite significant. At the height of summer it is +10 degrees, and in winter it can be minus 45. Large reserves of oil and gas are hidden under the ice. IN Lately are actively involved in their development.

The largest island in the world belongs to Denmark and is washed by the oceans on both sides - the Atlantic and the Arctic. The capital of Greenland is the city of Nuuk, which is also the largest on the island, which is also autonomous region Denmark.

It is believed that Greenland is the final point of any round-the-world tour. Experienced travelers they say that those who have not been to Greenland have not seen anything interesting. After all, every self-respecting tourist is obliged to conquer the cold, but at the same time beautiful island. Another interesting fact it is believed that the literal translation of the word Greenland is “ green earth”, but in fact there is practically no greenery there.

The next largest island in size rightfully occupies the Pacific New Guinea. Its popularity among tourists has won a warm climate, rich colors and rich flora and fauna. Dendrologists, ornithologists and entomologists have been studying the animals and plants of the island for years. However, every year more and more new representatives of flora and fauna appear on the largest island.

New Guinea was discovered in the 16th century, but until 1871 it was practically not visited. The inhabitants of the island had a reputation as cannibals, and there were no people who wanted to visit this green kingdom. Only in 1871, thanks to the efforts of the Russian scientist Miklouho-Maclay, did the attitude towards the islanders change.

It is worth bearing in mind that the inhabitants of this island are of various nationalities. Even the fact that at present the large island constantly meets tourists, tribes live in its depths that have never encountered fair-skinned people. By the way, the Papuans consider white people dangerous. That is why, tourist trip can be filled with real adrenaline.

Green Kalimantan

The third largest island in the world is Kalimantan. It is also known as Borneo. Its territory also has a uniform coverage, but, unlike Greenland, these are green forests and tropics. Centennial, majestic trees adorn the entire island. This makes it possible to develop the forestry and woodworking industries. In addition, the island has serious deposits of oil and gas. All this makes a significant financial contribution to the three states between which its territory is divided. Another profitable industry here is the long-term mining of diamonds, which are quite numerous on the island. This direction made it possible to call Borneo the "diamond river".
Animal and vegetable world very varied here. It is on Kalimantan that one of the most beautiful plants grows - the black orchid.

The predominant part of the inhabitants of the island are Chinese, Malaysians and Aborigines (who live according to the customs of their ancestors). In general, residents are quite positive about tourists and show themselves to be hospitable hosts.

Madagascar is a holiday paradise

Biggest tourist island- Madagascar. Its population is over 20 million people. Geographically, it is located in eastern Africa, located in the tropical zone, has a warm climate. The island is famous for its breathtaking sunsets. There are also several dozen small but very beautiful waterfalls.

The locals call their native home"boar island" or "red". last name associated with the color of the soil. Its fauna is very diverse. Many rare exotic animals and insects live there. It is a paradise for scientists and explorers. In the tropics of Madagascar, a rare species of spiders lives, from the webs of which various items of clothing are woven.

The inhabitants of Madagascar are engaged in hunting and fishing. Animal meat is eaten, but turtles are especially preferred. From her turtle meat, extraordinary dishes have become the pride of the local cuisine.

Baffin Island - rugged beauty

Baffin Island is the largest Canadian island in the world. Huge area, more than 500,000 square km and very few people living here (about 12 thousand people). This situation is connected with the fact that the island is located in the Arctic Ocean and has a rather cold climate. You can get here only by air, and you can only engage in hunting or fishing there. There are many on the island fresh lakes, some of which are quite large.

Harsh climatic conditions do not affect the fact that the island is visited by tourists. The locals managed to create everything the necessary conditions For extreme tourism. In addition, there are a certain number of people who want to celebrate a wedding or other celebration in such unusual conditions.
This largest and cold island peace on its territory historical park. It contains various household items of all tribes and peoples living in a harsh area.

Each island has a number of advantages and features. Some have a hot climate beautiful beaches and the purest ocean water, and on others amazing animal world and rare natural phenomena. It is impossible to say which of the islands is better. All of them are big, mysterious and bewitching. The same applies to the population. On all the islands, the indigenous people have their own cultural characteristics, interesting traditions and customs.

What is an island? For many it is resort areas like the Maldives, Sicily or Crete. For others, pictures from action-packed adventure films pop up before their eyes. Indeed, the islands of the world are full of secrets and mysteries, and scientists do not get tired of publishing unusual facts about these small pieces of land surrounded by water on all sides.

So the youngest island not so long ago came of age. He is 21 years old. He was born in July 92 after a volcanic eruption near the island of Bogoslov of the archipelago of the Aleutian Islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is 400 meters long and 90 meters high.

TOP 10: the largest islands in the world

However, it is not always possible to measure an island in hundreds of meters. There are quite a few on the world map that represent entire maritime states.

Let's talk about the latter. . By tradition, let's start with the last line of the hit parade.

10th place - Ellesmere Island

10th place is occupied by the Canadian island Ellesmere. This piece of land with an area of ​​203 thousand square meters is located in the Arctic Ocean.

9th place - Victoria Island

On the 9th place is another Canadian island with beautiful name Victoria. Its area is slightly larger than the previous one - 213 thousand square meters. It is located in the neighborhood, in the ice of the same Arctic.

8th place - the island of Great Britain

8th place rightfully given to the island Great Britain. It is located on the territory of 230 thousand square kilometers. washed by Atlantic Ocean. From unusual facts It is worth noting that a huge number of people live on this island. More than 60 million islanders are listed on the territory of the island of Great Britain.

7th place - Honshu Island

7th place on the list japanese island Honshu. It has an area of ​​just under 230,000 square kilometers in the Pacific Ocean. The island of Honshu is home to the largest Japanese cities: Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, etc. According to the latest data, the population on it exceeds the British. About 100 million people.

6th place - Sumatra island

By the way, Indonesia is called the “land of a thousand islands”. Scientists have counted more than 13,500 islands on the territory of the state. 12,000 of them are uninhabited. In addition, most of these small pieces of land do not even have place names.

5th place - Baffin Island

5th place was taken by another Canadian island - baffin land. It is located on an area of ​​507 thousand square kilometers in the Arctic Ocean.

4th place - the island of Madagascar

In 4th place, the island, which became especially famous after the animated film of the same name Madagascar. It occupies a little less than 600 thousand square kilometers in Indian Ocean.

Ahead - the most interesting. Let's move on to the top three. Who is on the list of the top three major islands peace?

3rd place - Kalimantan Island

3rd place goes to the island of Kalimantan or otherwise Borneo. It is also located in the Indian Ocean and belongs to three states at once: Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. Its area is 743 thousand square kilometers.

2nd place - the island of New Guinea

New Guinea is the silver medalist. It occupies 786 thousand square kilometers in the Pacific Ocean. By the way, from the point of view of residential area geographical feature, this island could claim the first place. Two countries spread their possessions on this piece of land: Papua New Guinea and Indonesia.

1st place - Greenland

The title of "The world's largest island" goes to amazing country— Greenland . Its area is 2 million 131 thousand square kilometers. The island is located off the northeastern coast of America. It is separated from Canada by the Smith and Robson Straits in the northwest, the Baffin Sea and Davis Strait in the west, and the Labrador Sea in the southwest. WITH north side Greenland is washed by the North Arctic Ocean, or more precisely, the Lincoln Sea. In the northeast of the island is the Greenland Sea, in the southeast the Danish Strait. WITH south side the Atlantic is located.

Climate

The climate in Greenland is different: maritime, subarctic, arctic and even continental arctic. The cyclone is the most frequent guest on the island. That means it's always here. strong winds, a sharp change in weather and precipitation.

The average temperature on the coast in winter is from -7 to -37 degrees Celsius. In the depths of the island, conditions are completely harsh: up to -47. In summer, the temperature does not rise above +10 on the entire coast, and in the depths it remains below zero.

Flora and fauna

Plants here can only be found in places free from glaciers. Birch, willow, mountain ash, alder and even juniper are found on these meager pieces of the island. As for the animals, they are exclusively northern on the island. No surprises: polar bears, bowhead whales and seals, walruses, polar wolves and reindeer.

How could this place get a name that literally translates as "green land"?

History legends

Vikings discovered the island of Greenland. They came here in the 10th century. There are even several legends about how the name came about. Some believe that in medieval times the island had a completely different climate, warm. Blooming greens gave this name to their land. Others express an opinion about the cunning of the first settlers. Allegedly they gave the island such fabulous name to get people here.

Since 1536, Greenland has been considered Danish territory. This was due to the fact that Norway was under the yoke of the Danes, and the countries were united into a single state. However, in 1905 Norway gained independence and claimed the island for itself. But Denmark was not going to give up Greenland without a fight. The issue was resolved through the Permanent Court of International Justice. She made a decision: to leave Greenland as a Danish colony.

The largest island in the world, Greenland, belongs to Denmark to this day. 84% of the territory is solid ice. But despite this, the island has settlements. The largest is Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. The city is located on west coast. A little over 15 thousand people live in it.