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Photo: Rafał Konieczny, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Norway's first entry into the top league of modern architecture. Awarded the 2008 prize for best cultural building at the World Architecture Festival in Barcelona, and the prestigious Mies van der Rohe award for best European contemporary architecture in 2009, its appearance is stunning. Shaped as a glacier or a ship, the amazing building seems to float by the inlet Bjørvika, giving a stunning impression. Climb the building on the marble slopes (summer only) for a unique Oslo view. The main highway, which used to pass just between the Opera and Oslo Central Station, is now moved to a sub-sea tunnel under Bjørvika.
The Oslo Opera House is the home of the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, and the national opera house in Norway. The building is situated in the Bjørvika neighbourhood of central Oslo, at the head of the Oslofjord. It is operated by Norwegian Directorate of Public Construction and Property, the government agency which manages property for the Norwegian government. The structure contains 1,100 rooms in a total area of 49,000 m2 (530,000 sq ft). The main auditorium seats 1,364 and two other performance spaces can seat 200 and 400. The main stage is 16 m (52 ft) wide and 40 m (130 ft) deep. The angled exterior surfaces of the building are covered with marble from Carrara, Italy and white granite and make it appear to rise from the water. It is the largest cultural building constructed in Norway since Nidaros Cathedral was completed circa 1300.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
A unique collection of mini bottles. While the bottles are small, the museum exhibits 12,500 of them from a collection of 53,000, over an area of 1,500 m².
Basarene (the Bazaar)
The small, old bazaar surrounding the church is now used by artisans and craftsmen, and holds a couple of small cafes and restaurants. This building was constructed around 1850 in neo-romantic style on the site of an older butchers' bazaar.
Domkirke
Oslo's cathedral is none too impressive, but has been refurbished. It was erected in 1697, and expanded in the 19th century using different coloured brick (still visible). After the terrorist attacks on Oslo in July 2011, the square Stortorget, in front of Oslo Cathedral, became the centre for afterthought and compassion. The square was fully covered by roses, greetings and mourning messages for weeks. Affiliated with the Church of Norway, the national Lutheran church.
indoor multipurpose arena
The place for great concerts, rallies and indoor sports events.
Forsvarsmuseet, The Defence Museum
Describes Norwegian military history and provides an insight into the development from the Middle Ages to the first years after World War II.
Akershus Festning
A medieval castle and fortress built in 1299, located close to the city centre. There are several excellent viewpoints to the Oslofjord and surrounding areas. The stone walls create an exciting atmosphere, and you are free to roam around in tight passages and staircases. There are two museums here, both related to Norwegian military history (see museums below).