Kulusuk
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Quick facts about Kulusuk
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The Kulusuk settlement houses the only international airport in the Ammassalik region, serving as the gateway to East Greenland. Its rich historical background traces back to 1956 when it was built by the US Air Force as part of their early warning defense system. Today, the airport is a vibrant hub, providing connections to Keflavik, Iceland through Icelandair, and Nuuk, Greenland via Air Greenland.
Facilities in Kulusuk
- Small supermarket, with post office, local bank office and petrol station
- Service house with running water, shower and accommodation
- Communal spots for drinking water collection
- Nursing station
- Municipality office
- Community house
- Church
- Museum
- School
- Kindergarten
- Free-time facility for the youth
- Small multipurpose football field
The Stained Glass Church
Kulusuk’s intriguing history is manifested in its architecture. A standout is the church with stained glass windows – a sight to behold. The church was built by the crew of a Danish ship that had run aground on the nearby coast. Materials from the ship were repurposed to construct the church, and a replica of the ship hangs proudly from the church organ as a testament to this fascinating history.
Infrastructure and Facilities
Being a small settlement, facilities in Kulusuk cater to its residents’ needs. The Pilersuisoq, a multi-functional shop, doubles up as a post office, bank and petrol station. The longest road in Kulusuk leads from the settlement to the international airport. The other dirt road leads across the island of Kulusuk to the Dye4 station, remains of the American DEW radar system from the Cold War.
Educational and Recreational Offerings
Young minds find a nurturing environment in Kulusuk’s school, which additionally hosts a free-time club for the youth. This multi-purpose approach to facilities ensures that the settlement’s children are cared for and engaged in a variety of constructive activities, such as a local kayaking club.
A Peek into Greenlandic Culture
Kulusuk’s museum offers a glimpse into the rich culture and history of the region. A small but cozy family-style museum, where visitors can learn about the region’s traditions, arts, and history, making their experience in Kulusuk truly immersive.
The Service House
Kulusuk’s service house is a haven for residents and visitors. Offering showers, laundry services, and accommodations, it is the only place in the settlement with running water. However, it’s noteworthy for visitors to remember that water in Kulusuk needs to be collected from a communal spot, adding a unique aspect to daily life in this fascinating settlement.
Handy Tips for Travelers
Travelers should note that all the local bank offices cater only to their own Greenlandic bank accounts. Visitors are advised to carry cash as certain services, such as the service houses, require cash payment. There are three ATM machines in the big and small supermarket in Tasiilaq for cash withdrawal that accept all common international credit cards. All supermarkets of Pilersuisoq and most of the other facilities accept card payments, also with international cards.
Conclusion: A Unique Greenlandic Experience
Kulusuk offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and simple living, making it an intriguing destination in East Greenland. Whether you’re charmed by the historical church, intrigued by life without running water, or interested in learning about Greenlandic culture at the museum, Kulusuk offers an experience that promises to stay with you long after you’ve left its shores.
