We are now in Norway. We’ve always wanted to visit here but never was it in our path. We expected very cold temperatures but have been blessed so far with beautiful and mild 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. It can’t be any more perfect than that. It rained in Germany a couple of days ago, which is why there is no post for that day.
Oslo is Norway’s capital. Our day in this Nordic city was a journey through time, from the city’s Viking origins to its modern royal family.
With a population of over 690,000, Oslo has evolved from a small Viking settlement into a thriving city. Its history is marked by both triumphs and tragedies.
A catastrophic event shaped the city’s destiny. In 1624, a devastating fire engulfed almost the entire wooden city. The blaze, likely ignited by a spark from a chimney or a cooking fire, spread rapidly through the densely packed houses. Thousands were left homeless, and the economic loss was immense. In response to this disaster, King Christian IV of Denmark-Norway made the bold decision to rebuild the city on a new site, closer to the protection of Akershus Fortress. The newly established city was named Christiania in his honor.
This strategic relocation allowed for a more organized city layout with wider streets, reducing the risk of future fires. The rebuilding process was a massive undertaking, but it laid the foundation for the modern city we know today and has be renamed to Oslo.
Our exploration began at the Nobel Peace Center, a powerful symbol of global peace efforts. Dedicated to spreading the idea of peace, the center often features the works of peace activists like Yoko Ono. They even say John Lennon spent a lot of time here.
For a truly unique artistic experience, we ventured to Vigeland Park. This extraordinary park is home to over 200 sculptures created by the artist Gustav Vigeland. His life’s work, spanning decades, is a monumental exploration of the human condition, capturing everything from birth to death, love to anger, with raw and powerful expression.
The park’s centerpiece is the granite fountain, surrounded by a myriad of figures in bronze and granite, each telling a story of human existence. Vigeland’s obsession with detail is evident in every sculpture. He created a truly immersive and thought-provoking experience with all nude statues and anatomically correct! The only word I can come up with is “interesting”!
A visit to the iconic Opera House, with its inviting sloped roof, offered a view of Oslo’s modern architectural landscape. The National Gallery, next to it, houses a treasure trove of Norwegian art, providing insights into the country’s artistic heritage.
Karl Johans Gate, the city’s main thoroughfare, is named after King Karl Johan, who reigned from 1818 to 1844.
City Hall, a magnificent building, is the prestigious venue for the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. It is a magnificent building.
The Norwegian monarchy has undergone significant transformation. While the Royal Palace stands as a symbol of tradition, the royal family has embraced modernity.
Crown Prince Haakon’s marriage to Mette-Marit Tjessem Høiby in 2001 defied traditional norms and sparked public debate. Mette-Marit, a single mother with a ugly past outside the royal circle, has become a beloved figure, representing a more inclusive and relatable monarchy.
Our day concluded with a magical evening as we witnessed the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. It was a truly remarkable experience of Gods amazing artistic talents!
Next up Olden, Norway
May He bless you always!
Chuck and Lea Ann
WorldTravelReynolds 