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28-07-03
Festivities for Olav's day in Tórshavn (Faroe Islands)
 Before sunrise we arrive in the harbour of Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands and the 2 days stop over on the way to Iceland. Although it's one of the smallest of it's guild, it has a long history that is celebrated these days. But later more about that. The land of maybe, as the Faroe Island are called sometimes. The moody weather defines your day where rain, storm and fog alternate. But when the clouds open, the sunlight lies like a golden veil over the dramatic landscape. It's a long time ago the vikings met here once a year to debate about rights and law, called the "Thing", the origin of the parliament.  Today and tomorrow they celebrate the Olav's day, the national holiday, where the "Thing" is opened again. These meetings took place on the 29 July, the day of the sacred Olav. After the announcement in the town center, thousands of Faroe people celebrate in the streets and along the harbour, most of them wearing their traditional uniforms and costumes. As well, they organise their rowing boat competition where the teams, uproariously helped by their supporters, fight to win like their ancestors did. After all, a cheerful happening in the harbour. Tonight seams to be an open night... [JK] 
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