Geography plays a crucial role in shaping a country’s identity, culture, economy, and even its strategic significance. Europe boasts a diverse range of landscapes and terrains, but have you ever wondered which pair of countries have the least similar geography in Europe?
One way to answer this subjective question is by analyzing the data from the Country Similarity Index. The index attempts to quantify how similar countries are to each other relative to other countries, using a variety of statistics. An analysis of the geographic data suggests that Iceland and Moldova have the least similar geography among European countries. However, Iceland’s geography is far different from Ukraine and Belarus as well.
Iceland – Moldova
The pairing of Iceland and Moldova presents a large difference in geographical attributes. Iceland is an island situated in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. On opposite end of the spectrum, Moldova is a landlocked country in southeastern Europe.
Iceland is a land of unparalleled natural beauty, characterized by its rugged terrain, active volcanoes, and breathtaking glaciers. The country has an array of geological wonders, such as geysers, hot springs, and towering waterfalls. In contrast, Moldova is defined by its relatively flat monotonous landscape with a lack of significant natural elevations.
Another difference is that Moldova has a significantly drier climate. It also has a milder and more temperate climate, thanks to its proximity to the Black Sea. The country’s fertile soil has contributed to its agriculture-based economy, with vineyards and wheat fields dominating its landscape.
Due to the cold temperatures, there is little farming done in Iceland. In contrast, the vast majority of Moldova’s land is used for farming. Furthermore, Moldova is also much more densely populated than Iceland. It has over 100 people per square kilometer. Iceland has less than 4 people per square kilometer.
This is just part of what makes Iceland and Moldova the least similar countries in Europe.
Iceland – Ukraine
Iceland and Ukraine are also far different in terms of geography. In fact, some parts of Ukraine have three hours of time difference with Iceland. Ukraine is also located much further to the south, so its climate is not nearly as cold in the summer, although both countries do get significant snowfall in the winter.
While both countries have a lot of coastline, Iceland borders the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, while Ukraine borders the Black Sea. Although a few parts of Ukraine are mountainous, the country does not have huge elevations changes. Iceland, being situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, is prone to frequent volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
Ukraine’s fertile soils have made it a major agricultural player, known as the “breadbasket of Europe.” Over 80% of the land is used for farming, especially wheat, corn, and sunflower. In contrast, Iceland’s limited farm land is predominantly dedicated to cultivating either barley or potatoes, two crops they grow well in colder conditions.
Another difference is that Ukraine is much more densely populated than Iceland. Over 10 of Ukraine’s cities have a higher population than the entire nation of Iceland, which has around 370,000 residents. As a result, a higher percentage of the land in Ukraine is built-up, including all the buildings and paved urban areas within a city.
