26 Interesting Facts about Igloos

Dan October 17, 2023

Igloos, also known as snow houses or snow huts, are traditional Inuit dwellings primarily found in the Arctic regions. These unique structures are ingeniously designed to provide shelter and warmth in one of the harshest climates on Earth. Constructed using blocks of snow, usually compacted by hand, these dome-shaped shelters effectively trap warm air inside, offering a surprisingly cozy and insulated living space.

The design of an igloo is both practical and functional. The rounded shape minimizes surface area exposed to the cold, reducing heat loss and making it easier to maintain a warmer temperature inside. The thick walls of compacted snow provide excellent insulation, preventing the interior from freezing in extremely low temperatures. Additionally, the entrance is typically designed lower than the living area, creating a cold trap that prevents frigid air from entering the main space.

Igloos are not just temporary shelters; they showcase the Inuit people’s profound understanding of their environment and mastery of survival skills. The word “igloo” comes from the Inuit language, meaning “house” or “home.” Traditionally, igloos were built for short stays during hunting expeditions, and their construction could take a few hours to a few days, depending on the size and skill of the builders. Today, while modern housing is prevalent, igloos continue to be used for cultural events, education, and even tourism, providing a glimpse into the ingenuity of Arctic cultures and their deep connection with the environment.

Do you want to know more about igloos? Let’s take a look at these 26 interesting facts about igloos.

1. Inuit Origins: Igloos are traditional dwellings primarily constructed by the Inuit and other indigenous Arctic peoples, such as the Yupik and Chukchi.
2. Quick Assembly: Skilled individuals can construct a basic igloo in about one to two hours, showcasing the efficiency and knowledge of its builders.
3. Eskimo vs. Inuit: The term “Eskimo” was historically used to refer to indigenous Arctic peoples, but it’s considered outdated and is replaced by more specific terms like “Inuit.”
4. Snow Blocks: Igloos are built using blocks of snow, typically cut with a specialized knife called an “isuuraq” or “snow knife.”
5. Thermal Insulation: The compacted snow blocks provide excellent thermal insulation, keeping the interior surprisingly warm despite freezing temperatures outside.
6. Snow Types for Igloo Building: Certain types of snow, like wind-packed or hard-packed snow, are ideal for constructing sturdy igloos.
7. Dome Shape: The distinctive dome shape of igloos minimizes surface area exposed to the cold, enhancing thermal efficiency.
8. Natural Light: The entrance of an igloo is often lower than the living area, allowing natural light to filter inside while keeping the cold air out.
9. Innovative Ventilation: A hole is typically made in the roof to allow ventilation, preventing the buildup of carbon dioxide and humidity inside.
10. Snow Bricks vs. Ice Blocks: In some regions, igloos are built using either interlocking snow bricks or ice blocks, depending on the availability of snow or ice.
11. Symbol of Survival: Igloos symbolize resilience and survival, showcasing the ingenuity of Arctic peoples in adapting to their harsh environment.
12. Temporary Dwellings: Igloos were traditionally used as temporary shelters during hunting trips or migrations, and some larger ones could accommodate up to 20 people.
13. Inuit Igloo Building Contests: In some communities, igloo building contests are held to celebrate and preserve the traditional skill, where participants compete to construct the best and fastest igloo.
14. Snow Art: In some cases, igloos are constructed with intricate designs or sculptures within the walls, showcasing artistic creativity.
15. Snow Houses Worldwide: Similar snow houses, like quinzhees (built by piling snow and hollowing it out) and yarangas (similar to an igloo, used by indigenous Siberian peoples), are found in other cold regions worldwide.
16. Igloo Churches: In some regions, igloos have been used to construct churches, incorporating both traditional design and religious elements.
17. Igloos for Survival: In emergencies, modern versions of igloos made from lightweight materials can be assembled to provide temporary shelter for survival.
18. Igloo Hotels: Some regions, particularly in northern tourism hubs, have ice hotels constructed in the style of igloos, providing a unique accommodation experience.
19. Temperature Regulation: Igloos maintain a temperature just above freezing inside, even when outside temperatures plummet to -45 degrees Celsius (-49 degrees Fahrenheit) or lower.
20. Snow Bricks Strength: The snow bricks used in igloo construction can be stronger than concrete if the right type of snow is used and it’s properly compacted.
21. Igloo Preservation: Properly maintained and periodically repaired igloos can last for several months, serving as semi-permanent dwellings.
22. Educational Importance: Igloo construction is often taught in Arctic communities as part of cultural preservation and education about traditional ways of life.
23. Historical Significance: Igloos played a crucial role in the survival and migration of indigenous Arctic peoples for thousands of years.
24. Protected Interior: The interior of an igloo often has raised sleeping platforms made of snow or ice to keep inhabitants off the cold ground.
25. Inuit Mythology and Igloos: In Inuit mythology, it’s believed that the first igloo was built by Aukaneck, a giant, demonstrating the cultural significance of this dwelling.
26. Igloos in Modern Architecture: The design principles of igloos have influenced modern architectural designs, especially in the realm of energy-efficient and sustainable structures.

The igloo, a marvel of indigenous Arctic architecture, stands as a testament to human adaptability and resilience in the face of extreme conditions. Crafted from compacted snow, these dome-shaped shelters demonstrate the ingenious use of the natural environment for survival and comfort. Beyond their thermal efficiency and functionality, igloos embody the traditions, skills, and resourcefulness of the Inuit and other Arctic peoples. Throughout history, these snow abodes have been symbols of not only shelter but also cultural heritage, embodying the essence of a way of life intricately tied to the polar landscapes. In contemporary times, while modern housing prevails, the legacy of the igloo endures, serving as a tangible link to the past and an emblem of human innovation and adaptation to the harshest corners of our planet.