Nestled in the Arctic Ocean’s depths, on the Svalbard archipelago, is Longyearbyen, one of the world’s most unusual cities. This tiny town, home to roughly two thousand residents, is known not just for its severe climate but also for its extraordinary living regulations. Here, it is prohibited to die or even own cats.
Envision a town where residents dwell amidst deserted mines, encounter polar bears regularly, and, when facing death, depart to the mainland to die. Below are some fascinating details about life at the world’s northernmost frontier.
Death is forbidden
In Longyearbyen, there is a regulation that forbids dying. Indeed, if a local resident contracts a terminal illness or experiences a severe accident, they are swiftly evacuated to the mainland. Additionally, if a person passes away within the city, their remains are interred on the mainland.
This regulation was not established arbitrarily; in the perpetually cold conditions, bodies are preserved almost intact, essentially becoming “biological preserves” that could lure polar bears. Furthermore, hazardous microbes can stay active for extended periods, representing a risk to the living population.
Women in labor are not welcome here either
Local authorities find it impractical to maintain a maternity hospital for a population of two thousand. As a result, expectant mothers in the final stages of pregnancy travel to the mainland to deliver their babies. However, the demographic balance is preserved as these mothers return with their newborns to resume life in this remote and frigid part of the world.
Polar bears on the doorstep
It’s well-known that Longyearbyen has more bears than human residents. These dangerous predators freely wander the area, and it’s not rare for people to encounter them. Consequently, residents must carry a firearm whenever they step outside, whether for a trip to the pub or a simple stroll.
Newcomers receive “survival classes” upon arrival; university students learn to shoot and handle weapons safely from day one. Meanwhile, signs in shops and restaurants declare “Weapons are prohibited,” and secure boxes at entrances allow for the safekeeping of hunting rifles.
The newspaper that is known more than the city
Despite its modest population, Longyearbyen is home to the world’s northernmost regular newspaper, Svalbardposten. Published weekly, it boasts a subscription base larger than the town’s population. The newspaper is distributed to even the most remote villages within the archipelago, enjoying a readership that extends well beyond Longyearbyen’s borders.
Salvation from the apocalypse
Should the world ever teeter on the edge of a catastrophic event, Longyearbyen may serve as a key refuge. In 2006, a distinctive seed storage facility was constructed here, buried 120 meters deep, housing over 800,000 samples of agricultural seeds from every corner of the globe. Thus, in the event of an apocalyptic scenario, it is from this bunker that the revival of agriculture and the rescue of the remnants of human society could commence.
Cat’s disfavor
In Longyearbyen, cat enthusiasts must bid farewell to their feline friends. The breeding of cats is strictly forbidden due to concerns over the preservation of northern bird populations, which cats could potentially decimate. Consequently, furry pets are barred from the city, leaving residents to appreciate the indigenous wildlife, ranging from polar bears to northern gulls. Nevertheless, this prohibition does not extend to dogs, ensuring that locals still enjoy the companionship of four-legged pals.
A miniature metropolis
Despite its isolation and severe weather, Longyearbyen features a highly developed infrastructure. The town offers amenities ranging from a four-star hotel to a supermarket, as well as various bars and restaurants. Even amid the perpetual cold, it remains an attractive destination for tourists. Attractions include a cinema, an art gallery, museums, and even a nightclub. The local church, which is open around the clock, serves not only for religious services but also as a site for diverse cultural events.
Furthermore, the inhabitants experience total darkness for four months each year due to the polar night, which obscures all sunlight for 120 days. However, when the sun eventually rises above the horizon, the townspeople celebrate its return with a vibrant festival.
Life without pharmacies
In Longyearbyen, it is uncommon to fall ill, hence there are no pharmacies. A limited selection of medicines is available in the supermarket, but that is the extent of it. It’s possible that the severe local climate contributes to robust health, or perhaps the inhabitants are too occupied to take sick leave during the perpetual winter.
Thais at the end of the world
An interesting fact is that Longyearbyen’s second-largest demographic consists of Thai nationals. This small town boasts a Thai restaurant and supermarket, and annually celebrates a festival honoring Thai culture. Often referred to as the most tolerant place on Earth, Longyearbyen is home to individuals from 50 different countries, each contributing their traditions to the fabric of this Arctic community.
Take off your shoes and go!
In Longyearbyen, one of the most distinctive customs is removing your shoes before entering buildings, including hotels and restaurants. This practice originated from the mining era as a means to prevent coal dust from entering living spaces. Many establishments provide slippers in various sizes to ensure guests feel as comfortable as they would at home.