Greenland, the world’s largest island, is full of beautiful landscapes and interesting geography. 80% of its land is covered in ice and it’s location is so remote, most people can’t pick it off a map. So, where is Greenland? This island is located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, in the Northern Hemisphere. Not only does it have breathtaking natural beauty, but it also has a rich political history.
In this article, we’ll find out where Greenland is on the map. We’ll also consider why it plays such an important role in today’s world.
An Overview of Greenland
Greenland is the largest island in the world, but it’s often overlooked because of its icy landscape. Covering over 2.16 million square kilometers, Greenland is located in the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. It is northeast of Canada and northwest of Iceland. Although it is massive, it is not a continent. It is an autonomous territory of Denmark.

Climatic Significance
Greenland is one of the fastest-warming places on Earth, and this is causing big changes for the whole planet. Most of Greenland is covered by the Greenland Ice Sheet, which is the second largest ice sheet in the world, just behind Antarctica. This ice sheet holds about 1/8th of the world’s freshwater, making it very important for global climate.
However, scientists have found that Greenland’s ice is melting very quickly, adding about 0.7 millimeters to sea levels every year. This melting ice doesn’t just affect Greenland -it impacts weather, ocean currents, and ecosystems all around the world.
Geographic Significance
Greenland’s location is very important for many reasons. It lies between North America and Europe in the Arctic, stretching between latitudes 59° and 83°N and longitudes 11° and 74°W. Not only is the island about 2,670 kilometers long, it is also rich in natural resources like oil, gas, and rare minerals.
As Arctic ice melts, new opportunities for global shipping routes and military strategy are opening up. Greenland has also been important for countries like the United States, which set up military bases there during World War II, and these bases continue to be used today.
Cultural Significance
Greenland is not just about its ice and location -it’s also a place full of culture and tradition. Most of Greenland’s 56,000 people are Inuit, who have a special connection to the Arctic environment. Their culture, language, and traditions show how people can adapt and thrive in tough climates. This makes Greenland not only a land of natural beauty but also a place with an inspiring history.
Where Is Greenland? An In-Depth Look
When someone asks, “Where is Greenland?” the first thought might be to check a map. But to really understand its location, we need to explore more than just its coordinates. Greenland is a huge island in the northern part of the world, and its position affects everything—from its cold climate and unique ecosystems to the way its people live their daily lives.

Exact Positioning
Greenland is located in the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. It sits northeast of Canada, across the Labrador Sea, and west of Iceland. Its approximate coordinates stretch between 59°N and 83°N latitude, and 11°W to 74°W longitude. Greenland is home to the northernmost town in the world, located at 77.79°N.
Size and Scope
Greenland is massive, and its size can seem even larger due to the way some maps, like the Mercator projection, display it. It’s the largest island in the world that isn’t a continent. The island stretches about 2,670 kilometers from north to south and 1,050 kilometers from east to west at its widest point. Its total area is about 2,166,086 square kilometers, and most of this -around 1,755,637 square kilometers- is covered by the Greenland Ice Sheet.
Countries & Areas in Proximity
Greenland is positioned between two continents, placing it near several key locations:
- Arctic Ocean and the North Pole: Directly to the north.
- Canada: To the west, across the Davis Strait and Baffin Bay.
- Iceland: To the southeast, across the Denmark Strait.
- Norway’s Svalbard Archipelago: To the east and slightly north.
Natural Resources
As the ice melts, scientists and companies are discovering valuable resources beneath the surface. Greenland is believed to have 38.5 million tons of rare earth elements, which are vital for making electronics and green energy technologies. It also has reserves of uranium, oil, and other minerals that are attracting attention from around the world.

Here’s a list of some of Greenland’s most important resources:
- Oil and Gas Reserves: Although still being explored, these could be major sources of energy.
- Rare Earth Elements (REEs): Needed for electronics and renewable energy equipment like wind turbines and electric cars.
- Iron Ore: Used to make steel for buildings, tools, and vehicles.
- Copper and Zinc: Important for making pipes, wiring, and other construction materials.
Conclusion – Where Is Greenland?
The question “Where is Greenland?” opens up a world of interesting facts about geography, climate, resources, and culture. Greenland is not just a place on a map -it’s a huge island covered in ice, and its melting glaciers affect global sea levels. It also holds an important position in the Arctic, making it a key area for international interest. With its Inuit heritage and increasing self-rule, Greenland is a place with a rich history and growing importance in the world.
Greenland, the world’s largest island, holds a unique position on our planet. Nestled between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, it serves as a gateway to the Arctic and a bridge between North America and Europe. Its vast icy landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and growing global significance make it more than just a spot on the map—it’s a place of wonder, history, and potential. Whether you’re curious about its exact location or its impact on the world, Greenland’s story is one of resilience, natural beauty, and importance in today’s changing world.
Where Is Greenland – Summary
- Greenland is the world’s largest island, located in the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, with a latitude range that makes it one of the northernmost habitable places on Earth.
- The ice sheet holds immense quantities of freshwater and is a critical indicator of climate change impacts.
- Home to vast quantities of rare minerals and untapped energy resources that invite international interest.
- Greenland’s location in the Arctic gives it a central role in global military and navigation strategies
- A predominantly Inuit population with rich traditions and a unique linguistic heritage.
- While part of the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland enjoys significant self-governance and control over its resources with potential aspirations for full independence.
Where Is Greenland? Related Questions
1. Is Greenland part of a continent?
No, Greenland is not part of a continent; it is the world’s largest island and is part of the Kingdom of Denmark.
2. How is Greenland’s climate affected by its location?
Greenland’s Arctic location results in a harsh polar climate, affecting its ecosystems and contributing to global climate change discourse through ice sheet dynamics.
3. Why is Greenland important to global politics?
Due to its strategic position in the Arctic, Greenland is pivotal for military operations and holds vast natural resources, making it a focal point in international geopolitics.
4. How many people live in Greenland?
Approximately 56,000 people live in Greenland, with around 88% being Inuit.
5. What is the primary language spoken in Greenland?
The primary language spoken is Kalaallisut, which is part of the Inuit group of languages within the Eskimo-Aleut family.
6. Does Greenland have its own government?
Yes, Greenland has self-government, enacted in 2009, allowing it to control its domestic affairs while remaining part of Denmark.
7. Are there any significant military bases in Greenland?
Yes, the Thule Air Base, operated by the United States, is a significant military installation located in Greenland.
8. Why do so many countries show interest in Greenland’s resources?
Greenland possesses a wealth of rare earth elements, minerals, and potential oil reserves that are vital for modern technology and energy, attracting global interest.
9. Can Greenland become independent?
Greenland has the right to seek independence, although economic, strategic, and political considerations play significant roles in such a decision.
