Oslo Sights and Landmarks Guide, Norway

The Green City of Oslo

Oslo, the capital of Norway, enjoys a very good location at the head of the Oslo Fjord. The place is surrounded by tree lined hills earning it a 2nd place spot on 2007’s Reader Digest’s list of world’s cleanest and greenest city. 

The climate in Oslo is milder contrary to what is perceived. Despite its scenic greenery, Oslo also boasts shopping and commercial centers, restaurants and a progressive cultural life.  A visit in Karl Johan would take you to Norway’s busiest streets with almost 100,000 inhabitants roaming it each day.

Many institutions are also located here, these are, the Slottet (Royal Palace, built for King Karl XIV and Oscar I), the Stortinget (the Parliament, built in 1866), the national theater, as well as the university.

 The Akershus Slott, which sits at the very end of Oslofjorden, was once a strategic location for Oslo’s defenses. It was built in the 1300’s by King Håkon the V. It witnessed many sieges and battles; in fact the scars of that turbulent era can still be seen today. Arkershus Slott is perhaps the best preserved among the fortresses and castles of Norway’s medieval history. Today this lasting monument houses some historical buildings and a museum as well.

One of Oslo’s most visited sites, drawing a million tourists a year, is the Vigelandsparken (Vigeland Sculpture Park). It is named after sculptor Gustav Vigeland (1869-1943). He is the one who conceptualized more than 200 sculptures that are artistically lined up within the park. Vigeland started his work in 1924 but it was only in 1950 that the park came into full bloom. His works depict that of humanity and oftentimes conveys inspiring messages.

A visit to Oslo would not be complete without taking a glimpse of Norway’s Viking lineage. A great place to experience this is at Vikingskipshuset (Viking ship museum). Here you can see a collection of Viking sleds, small boats, tools, clothing, and even a Viking tomb.  It also houses the best preserved wooden Viking ship that dates back to the 9th century.

And for family fun, go visit Tusenfryd Amusement Park. Among its attractions are the SpeedMonster, which takes its rider from 0 to 90 kph in just 2 seconds, and the Supersplash, which boast of the world’s steepest and tallest drop into the water.

Whether you are a nature tripper, a history buff, or travelling with your family, Oslo has something to offer that would surely satisfy and fit your lifestyle.

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• Oslo Attractions
  review by RennyBA posted more then 30 days ago
  There are some attractions you visit at Oslo Blog Gathering 2010: Oslo Opera House recreational culture for the people and The Norwegian Viking Ships. There are moany other things toread about or to see, these are only my personal favorites. Kids will surely love the Viking ships, but it's also...
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  review by RennyBA posted more then 30 days ago
  My Terella is a travel blog about Norway and the Nordic countries; the significant four seasons, our culture, traditions and habits and everything else. So if there is anything you didn't know about the wonderful Scandinavian countries just look me up. You can also ask questions, I will be glad...

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