Norway

Oslo

Oslo - the Capital of Norway - is situated in the heart of Scandinavia, surrounded by magnificent scenery from the fjord to the forested hills. Already at the turn of the 10th century a settlement was built at the end of the Oslo fjord. During the 11th century this settlement grew into the medieval city of Oslo, an important royal stronghold, ecclesiastical centre and commercial centre. This makes Oslo one of the oldest cities in Scandinavia, and the only Scandinavian capital with an urban settlement dating back to the Viking Ages. Many historical remnants and ruins from ancient Oslo can be found in the Memorial Park.


17th May parade, Oslo
The 17th of May is Norway's "Constitution Day". It is celebrated with great enthusiasm by young and old. The celebrations mark the day in 1814 when Norway got its independence from Denmark. It is a day of flags, parades. speeches and bands playing the national anthem, "Ja, vi elsker dette landet"- which you can hear in the background. Families gather. Norwegians everywhere wear their highly embroidered national costumes, called "bunader".