Today, we visited the Thingvellir National Park, the site of the Alping, Iceland’s parliament, and the world’s oldest. The Alping was essentially Iceland’s first form of government. This historical event was significant to the development of Iceland in the 900s because chieftains of the different regions would come together to represent Iceland to create laws and settle disputes. The Alping is significant to the creation of Iceland because the Alping was created in 930 and continued to meet until 1798. The long-lasting Alping worked to make Iceland the country it is today, similar to how the founding fathers of America got together in the constitutional hall to create the blueprint of the American government. It was extraordinary to visit this site and experience this piece of Iceland’s history. We learned about where the Chieftains would be housed compared to the civilians visiting the convention. Moreover, we learned that the Chieftains would meet in a circle and make announcements into a rock wall. The wall reflects sounds so that civilians who were outside of the parliament could hear.
At the Frioheimar greenhouse, they receive tomato seeds and grow them until they sprout. The greenhouse is unique because it sources the heat from nearby geothermal springs. The water is piped into the center via LED lights and UV rays to provide heat and light. Therefore, the center creates an environment where the tomatoes can undergo photosynthesis. The company is unique because the center can produce 40% of all tomatoes on the island. It was interesting to learn that the greenhouse also imports bees to pollinate the plants. The center visit was informative to learn more about how Icelanders utilize natural resources to adapt to their unique environment.
Swanson School of Engineering 