original_query: What is the historical significance of Akureyri's ice-free harbour?
query: What is the historical significance of Akureyri's ice-free harbour?
answer: Akureyri's ice-free harbor was crucial for its establishment as a trading center in the 17th century, attracting Danish merchants due to its excellent natural harbor.  Its ice-free nature also contributed to Akureyri's continued growth as a port and fishing center, and later as a hub for two major Icelandic fishing companies.