Qaasuitsup, Former municipality in northwestern Greenland
Qaasuitsup was a former municipality in northwestern Greenland that covered a vast territory dotted with numerous coastal settlements. Ilulissat served as the administrative center and main transportation hub, connecting remote communities through air and maritime routes.
The municipality was created in 2009 through a major administrative reform that merged eight separate regions into one governance structure. It existed until 2018, when it was dissolved and its responsibilities redistributed.
Traditional hunting and fishing practices shaped daily life in the settlements, and visitors can still see these customs reflected in how communities use the land and sea. Local crafts and food traditions continue to define the rhythm of work and celebration in these remote areas.
Access to settlements is primarily by plane or ship, as there are no road connections between communities. Visitors should prepare for long travel times and understand that transportation options are limited.
During its existence, this was the largest municipality by area anywhere in the world, even surpassing the size of France. Despite this enormous extent, the total population was remarkably small and scattered across dozens of isolated settlements.
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