Bergen Norway

Each city in Norway is unique. Take the city of Bergen for example. Founded in 1070 AD, today the city has a population close to 250,000. Considered one of the most beautiful cities in the country, you need to plan several days to see all that Bergen has to offer.

In the Middle Ages, this city was the seat of kings and a point of departure for Vikings sailing the Mediterranean and North Atlantic seas. While the city of Oslo is growing and considered an important city in Norway, Bergen remains one of the most important. Famous for its spectacular weather, Bergen does get rain but the temperatures are comfortably warm because of its location to the Gulf Stream and Atlantic Ocean.

One of the favorite touring areas is called Bryggen, which is by the inner harbor, which is located in the medieval section. There, you will discover a number of fascinating shops along with a row of 18th century warehouses. Then, you can visit a 12th century church, the Bryggen Museum, where an array of archaeological artifacts of medieval life are on display, and Leprosy Museum where a 17th century leprosy hospital was founded.

Other interesting things to see in Bergen include the Hanseatic Museum, actually an old house that has been restored, and the location where league merchants lived and worked. Next, you want to take a tour of the 16th century Rosenkrantz Tower, which is a literal dungeon. For some great, fresh seafood, the fish market is the ideal place to shop. Of course, Bergen features a number of wonderful restaurants where you can enjoy a meal of traditional dishes.

Another great area of Bergen to visit is called Floyen. As one of seven mountains that surround Bergen, the view from the top is simply stunning. You can take a ride up where you will discover a national park that boasts wonderful trails for hiking. Next on the list of things to see while in Bergen is the Fantoft Stave Church, a modern day replica of the original church that was built during medieval times but burned in 1992 by a Satanist from Norway. Keep in mind that this church is just one of many scattered about the city.

Today, people come to Bergen from around the globe to learn more about this fascinating city. The exciting thing is that many of the things to see and do are free. For example, you can visit Skansen, which is not far from the fish market. The road leading up to Skansen zigzag due to the steep incline but at the top, you will find a quaint, wooden fire-watchers station. To celebrate Norway’s National Day, the cannon is fired from Skansen every May 17.

You might also enjoy a leisurely stroll in Fjellveien while at Skansen. This are also offers a spectacular view that you should not miss seeing. Perhaps you would prefer to walk around Nordnes, whereby afterwards, you could visit the Bergen Aquarium, a real treat for the entire family, or enjoy the beauty of Nordnes Park. Remember, these things are just a few of what you might consider but Bergen has so much more to offer.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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