Most pleasant introduction to discover Norway’s past and present with our guest Kristin Skjefstad Edibe : In 1814, the Treaty of Kiel transferred Norway from Danish to Swedish rule. Norway accepted a union with Sweden under a common monarch, while retaining its own constitution and national assembly. Cultural nationalism led to economic nationalism in the 19th century. Norway demanded its own national flag and consular service in order to promote its maritime commerce. After Sweden was unwilling to concede these points, Norway’s national assembly (Storting) declared an end to the union with Sweden on June 7, 1905. Sweden accepted, and a treaty of separation was signed on October 26, 1905. Norway chose Prince Charles of Denmark as its king, who assumed the name of Haakon VII and ruled until 1957. Read even more information about the subject here : Kristin Skjefstad Edibe.
Bergen and the western fjords : this is the place where historical World Heritage sites meet innovative fashion, trendy restaurants, and a progressive music scene in Norway’s second-largest city. You can visit some of the country’s top museums like KODE art museums and composer homes, get lost in squiggly cobblestone streets, and experience the city from above at one of the seven surrounding mountain tops. Bergen is the gateway to some of Norway’s most famous fjords, including the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, in the north, and the Hardangerfjord – where you’ll find the famous mountain plateau Trolltunga – in the south. Many of the fjords have sidearms that are at least as beautiful, but far less busy.
Norway is becoming a hotspot for fabulous restaurants and food producers, all giving you world-class gastronomic experiences: If you are looking for a top-class international restaurant, then Maaemo in Oslo is the place for you! In 2018, the restaurant was ranked the world’s 35th best restaurant. Maaemo is the first restaurant in Norway to earn three stars in the Michelin guide. As the only restaurant with two stars in the Michelin guide for 2022, the gourmet establishment RE-NAA is another jewel. It is located in Stavanger, along the west coast of Norway. Choose from a menu inspired by the local landscape that will give you a unique culinary experience. Under, with its one star, put Southern Norway on the Michelin map in 2020. Located in Lindesnes, the spectacular underwater restaurant is the world’s largest of its kind. Experience the ocean as you dine, sitting five and a half meters below sea level. It’s a once in a lifetime view!
Edvard Munch (1863–1944) is Norway’s most famous artist, a symbolist/expressionist painter who created The Scream, a world-famous piece and one of the most recognizable paintings in all art. Other notable painters and sculptors have brought Norwegian art to the public from the 19th and 20th centuries. Norway today is a destination for art and culture as expressed with the new MUNCH and the National Museum. Other highlights include the Tjuvholmen area with a unique architecture, home to the Astrup Fearnley contemporary art museum, which features key works by artists including Damien Hirst, Jeff Koons, and Norwegian artist Bjarne Melgaard, as well as major temporary exhibitions. You will also find a number of Norway’s most cutting-edge contemporary art galleries in the area. Oslo also has incredible outdoor sculpture parks, including Ekebergparken and the must-visit Vigelandsparken. There’s also lots of impressive street art along the way.
Norwegian design is part of the minimal, functional, and aesthetic Scandinavian design which is a major force in furniture and interiors. Scandinavian design first emerged as a common term in the 1950s, when designers from Norway and the neighbouring countries toured the world with their products, characterised by minimalism and functionality. Norwegians haven’t perhaps been as skilled or eager as our Swedish and Danish neighbours in promoting our post World War II-era design icons. But this could be seen as an advantage: the new generation of designers are now able to express themselves more freely, without having to constantly live up to a legacy. Already, many are gaining international recognition. They work with multiple formats, but the common thread is the willingness to experiment and take risks. The design scene in Norway has really been blooming in the 21st century with brands like brands like Fjordfiesta, Eikund and Hjelle.
Norwegian architecture is experiencing very exciting times. Urban developments and bold designs are taking shape all over the country. Those projects often reflect a powerful, raw contrasts in nature. One of the fundamental principles of Norwegian architecture is that architecture should always be in constant dialogue with its surroundings, including the abundant nature in the country. Natural, sustainable materials like wood are often present. Norwegian architects are taking wooden constructions to new levels in all types of building in cutting edge contemporary architecture.
Norway is an alpine skiing paradise. The season is long, the resorts are nice, and the views are impeccable. And there is something for everyone! Many of the largest resorts are easily accessible, in close proximity of airports and ferry ports. In winter, we swap our hiking boots for skis to enjoy the snow-covered mountains. Some kids even hit the slopes as soon as they’re able to walk. You see, the majority of Norway’s best ski resorts are super family-friendly, with children’s slopes and ski schools. But family-friendly does not mean boring. These ski destinations also offer challenges for the more advanced skiers. You can cruise down a diamond piste, challenge yourself on jumps and rails, or chase the perfect powder further up the mountains. It’s this combination of beginner’s fun and action-packed slopes that make the Norwegian ski destinations so popular. Friends and families can go on ski holidays together, even if they’re not at the same skill level.