The Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands are 18 small islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. They sit between Iceland, Norway, and Scotland. The islands belong to Denmark but rule themselves. They are famous for their green cliffs, sheep, and tiny fishing villages. About 54,000 people live on the islands.

Land of Sheep

The name 'Faroe' comes from an old word that means 'sheep islands.' There are actually more sheep on the islands than people. The sheep wander freely on the green hills. The people have raised sheep here for over a thousand years. Sheep wool is used to make warm sweaters that help people stay cozy in the cold weather.

Life by the Sea

The Faroe Islands have steep cliffs that drop into the ocean. Waterfalls tumble down the rocks into the sea. Birds like puffins nest on the cliffs in the summer. Fishing is very important to the people because the sea is full of fish. The houses in the villages often have grass growing on their roofs.

Fun Facts

• There are about 70,000 sheep on the Faroe Islands, more than the number of people.
• The Faroe Islands have 18 islands, and people live on 17 of them.
• Soccer is the most popular sport in the Faroe Islands.

Did You Know?

The Faroe Islands have underwater tunnels that connect some of the islands so people can drive right under the sea.