Altistæns

Altistæns, also known as the Althing, is the national parliament of Iceland. It is the oldest parliament in the world, with its origins tracing back to the 930s, making it one of the oldest continuously operating legislative bodies. The Althing was established by the Norwegian chieftains who settled in Iceland, and it has played a crucial role in the political and cultural development of the country.

The Althing is a unicameral parliament, meaning it has only one chamber. It is composed of 63 members, known as Althingi members, who are elected by universal suffrage for a four-year term. The parliament meets in the Althingi building in Reykjavik, which was constructed in the 19th century to accommodate the growing needs of the Althing.

The primary functions of the Althing include making laws, approving the national budget, and overseeing the government. It also plays a significant role in shaping Iceland's political landscape, with its members often serving as leaders in various political parties. The Althing's decisions are made through a combination of deliberation and voting, with each member having an equal vote.

The Althing has a rich history and has witnessed numerous significant events, including the drafting of the Icelandic Constitution in 1944. It continues to be a vital institution in Iceland, representing the will of the people and ensuring the democratic governance of the country.