Annual Report 2015

N O R D E A B A N K P R E S E N T S A G U I D E TO O S LO
A N N U A L R E P O RT O F J S C N O R D E A B A N K 2 0 1 5
GUIDE TO OSLO
JSC Nordea Bank
2015 Annual Report
Dear friends,
I am delighted to present Nordea Bank Russia’s Annual Report 2015 introducing Oslo, the capital of Norway. It is the fourth
one in the annual series of travel guides issued by the Bank. However, this report is the first one I open in the capacity of CEO.
Upon taking the office after 12 years with the Bank’s Executive Board, I was interviewed for the company website and
questioned on my biggest challenge as the new CEO. My answer was the need to change myself. Looking back later, I realized that any employee at the Bank could have given the same answer. Any manager, any employee of any company, and
many others besides would acknowledge that the last year made them change a lot.
Back in 2014, we faced a lot of unexpected challenges. Things appeared both complicated and uncertain. We realized that
the economic turbulence in the global and domestic markets would be long-term, and we began searching for new approaches that would help us adapt to that reality. By 2015, we had a clear vision: what to do, what to change, and how to do
it. We learned how to manage the changes we saw before us.
First, we decided to continuously improve our own efficiency by focusing on customers, business and internal processes and assess all our activities from this perspective. Second, we wanted to have a stronger and deeper focus on risk management to ensure robust and stable performance. Third, we agreed to further promote relationships with our key customers — domestic and international companies operating in the Russian market — and remain their trusted partner. And,
of course, we knew that we needed to take care of our employees, to motivate them, and to stay open and fair even in this
challenging environment.
These targets have helped us to deliver efficiently this year, accomplishing everything we had planned and achieving all
of our goals. I would like to thank all our customers for staying with us, and all my colleagues for working as one effective
team.
Today, we once again invite you to make a trip to the north and enjoy its incredible nature, rich history and culture, delicious cuisine and ancient traditions. I hope that this new travel guide by Nordea Bank Russia will contribute to your unforgettable journey to Norway.
Best regards,
Mikhail Polyakov,
CEO, Nordea Bank Russia
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OSLO
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contents
6
HISTORY AND CULTURE
22
2
MUSEUMS
42
WALKS AND ENTERTAINMENT
54
31
3
RESTAURANTS AND CAFÉS
24
49
70
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23
25
SHOPPING
78
NIGHTLIFE
94
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ABOUT THE BANK
A
B
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D
C
E
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32
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45 71
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9 39
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HISTORY AND CULTURE
WHAT IS OSLO?
Hva er Oslo?
[ VA AR OSLO? ]
There is a Norwegian saying that goes: “a favourite child has many names.” It is no surprise that the kingdom’s capital has changed
its name three times in its thousand year history: first known as Oslo, it then became
Christiania, then Kristiania, and finally Oslo
again. The Norwegian people planned the
city in a way that allows the majestic nature
of the north, valued over all else, to penetrate right into the very centre of the capital. It is only after you take a closer look
amongst the mountains and fjords that you
will discover a modern metropolis with
a well-developed infrastructure and ample
opportunities for work and leisure.
With a little time, Oslo truly is a city to fall
in love with.
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ИСТОРИЯ И КУЛЬТУРА
A CITY DIARY
CAPITAL OF CONTRAS
Travellers visiting Oslo for the first time usually can’t wait to experience this unique capital city, combining the laid-back lifestyle of
a small village with the fast pace of a modern metropolis. Oslo has
surprisingly many facets: from quiet island life in small houses next
to the water, hundreds of yachts gently swaying in the waves, to the
rumble of metro trains heading for the Olympic Hill (Holmenkollen),
past cows peacefully grazing at the royal farm, and the trumpets of
a military orchestra marching down the main street. The dark blue
fjord and the light blue sky, the green pines and the yellow sun, the
red cherries and the purple sunset: in a single city there is an unlimited range of color to experience.
www.visitoslo.com
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ИСТОРИЯ И КУЛЬТУРА
CHRONICLES
OSLO BECOMES THE CAPITAL OF NORWAY
Although Oslo celebrated its 1000th anniversary in 2000, hunters
and fishermen settled on the shores of the Oslofjord as early as five
thousand years ago as the petroglyphs found on Ekberg hill suggest. In 1299, the King of Norway Haakon V moved the country’s capital from Bergen to Oslo and founded the Akerhus Fortress here. One
hundred years later, Oslo lost its political status when Norway entered into a union with Denmark and Sweden, but the city still became an important trade port. The medieval wooden town burned
down in fires several times until the Danish King Christian IV ordered
for the city to be rebuilt in stone under the walls of the Akerhus Fortress in 1624.
49
The number of bells
in the Eastern bell
tower of Oslo’s
Town Hall
In 2016 the Norwegian
Parliament Building
turned 150. This
is where the 169 Nor­
wegian MPs hold
their meetings
8
FIELD OF GODS
ORIGINS OF OSLO’s NAME
Researchers have long debated the origins of the name Oslo. Some
believe the word means “settlement at the mouth of the river Lo.”
Others insist it means a “hilly field.” A few are adamant the word
Oslo means the field of ases — ases being ancient Scandinavian
gods. For 300 years, the city was named after the Danish King Christian IV, during whose reign it was rebuilt anew from stone and brick
after the devastating fire of 1624. In 1925, when Norway was once
again the capital of an independent country, the people decided
to restore the original name.
HISTORY AND CULTURE
OSLO’S PATRON SAINT
The LEGEND OF HALLVARD
Oslo Town Hall enjoyed its official opening ceremony on 15 May 1950.
For many years, Oslo residents have celebrated the date as Saint
Hallvard’s Day. You can see images of Saint Hallvard in the main room
of the Town Hall as well as on the city’s coat of arms. Legend says
that 1000 years ago Hallvard was trying to save a pregnant woman
when her pursuers shot him with an arrow and tried to drown his
body in the fjord, attaching a heavy mill stone to his neck. His body
refused to sink, but instead floated to the surface with the stone still
around his neck. The spot where he was buried was believed to have
healing powers, with a number of other miracles also allegedly taking place there. Saint Hallvard’s remains are now buried in the Hallvardskiren church in Oslo.
5
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21
February is when the
national flag of Nor­
way is raised to com­
memorate the birth­
day of the Norwegian
King Harald V
Rådhusplassen 1
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HISTORY AND CULTURE
KINGS AND SHIPS
KONGER OG SKIP
[ KONGER O SHIP ]
Oslo is a city of people who are strong both
in body and in spirit. The modern Norwegians’ ancestors, the Vikings, whose traditions are honoured in Scandinavia to this
day, were expert at building ships and making skis and skates. Today, even members
of the ruling royal family take part and
sometimes win in ski and sailing races. And
it cannot be any other way as the marina
is just a ten-minute walk from the Royal Palace and the Olympic ski track in Holmenkollen is half an hour by train.
10
ИСТОРИЯ И КУЛЬТУРА
The KING ON THE BALCONY
RESIDENCE OF THE ROYAL FAMILY IN OSLO
The royal residence in Oslo is located at 1, Palace Square. On the hill
at the end of Karl Johan’s gate there stands a grand classic building surrounded by a picturesque garden and ponds. It was built
in the first half of the 19th century and stand behind a statue of King
Karl XIV Johan. The palace garden features numerous sculptures
and flower beds, white swans swim in the ponds, and royal guards
decked out in parade uniforms march in front of the palace. On May
17, Constitution Day, people dress up in national costume and gather in front of the palace, where the king waves to them from the balcony. The royal family spend their summers in residence on Bygdøy
peninsula. During this time the palace is open to visitors.
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Slottsplassen 1
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HISTORY AND CULTURE
A CAPITAL OF GREAT NAVIGATORS
Norway’s Main Harbor
Norway has faced the ocean throughout its history, with the North
Sea waves feeding its people far better than its barren northern
soil. In fact, Oslo owes its origins to the convenient and safe harbour at the end of a long fjord, stretching on for kilometers. Today, the capital’s port handles dozens of cargo and passenger vessels on a daily basis. In central Oslo, right at the foot of the Akerhus
Fortress, there is a terminal that receives ferries from Denmark and
Germany all year round. Bygdøy peninsula has several museums
where you can see old Viking ships, Fridtjof Nansen’s schooner Fram
and Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon-Tiki raft, and as soon as spring rolls in and
the ice melts, the locals bring out hundreds of yachts into the fjord
while water buses head for the numerous islands in the Oslofjord
from the Pipervika pier.
Rådhusplassen
EMBANKMENT AT PORT
TRANSFORMATION OF AKER BRYGGE
Joachim Bernhardsen,
Analyst, Research Norway
GREFSENKOLLEN
My favourite place in Oslo
is Grefsenkollen. Grefsenkollen
is located high above the city
at the edge of the capital’s
forests. Cross country tracks
run right outside and for
hundreds of kilometers into
the woods. There’s a nice
restaurant up there and it’s
the perfect place for enjoying
a cup of hot cocoa after a long
cross country skiing trip while
looking down on the city.
Oslo Skisenter,
Rømckes vei 6,
Kongsberg,
www.oslo-skisenter.no
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A large number of ship repair shops opened up in Oslo in the mid19th century, eventually transforming into a large scale manufacturing business. Along the banks of the river Aker (Akerselva) and
in Pipervika bay you can find the country’s largest shipyards. They include the Akers Mekaniske Verksted shipyard, which was in operation
for 140 years until 1982. As time passed, the former shipyards turned
into recreational areas with a large number of shops, cafes and the
city’s best sea food restaurants. Today the Aker Brygge embankment
and the recently created Tjuvholmen neighbourhood are popular
destinations for both tourists and locals to enjoy good food, stock
up on the latest fashions, see great art exhibitions, listen to some
good music, or just to take a stroll down the embankment and swim
in the Oslofjord.
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Aker Brygge
ИСТОРИЯ И КУЛЬТУРА
A sporting LIFESTYLE
GUNNING FOR RECORDS
People living in Oslo spend a good part of their free time ­enjoying
different sports. Many start and end the day with a jog along the
coast or along forest tracks. The number of cyclists is growing every
year. Skis and skates in winter are replaced with football, basketball
and golf in the summer. It’s no surprise that Oslo plays host to the
world’s largest youth football event, as well as the famous sailing
race in the Oslofjord. But before anything else, Oslo is the world’s
capital of skiing, hosting the Winter Olympics in 1952. Today, it regularly hosts skiing and biathlon championships.
Life ­expectancy
in Norway is 84
for women and
80 for men
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HISTORY AND CULTURE
GOT INSPIRATION?
HAR DU INSPIRASJON?
[ HAR
SPIRASHUN?
]
composers, while the complex human resmall city have prompted many writers
world many brave explorers. The dark wa-
inspiration here…
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ИСТОРИЯ И КУЛЬТУРА
PORT OF INSPIRATION
OSLO CELEBRITIES
The walls of Henrik Ibsen’s apartment museum can still remember
the look of their former owner sat at his desk, writing yet another
masterpiece. An international festival dedicated to the works of the
famous dramatist, who spent the last years of his life in Oslo, is held
every two years in his memory. His plays remain relevant to this
day and the festival enjoys great popularity. Another local celebrity
is writer Knut Hamsun, who gained fame from the publication of his
novel Hunger. The book described living on the brink of life and
death in this very city.
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HISTORY AND CULTURE
141
metres is the record
ski jump performed
in Holmenkollen
in 2011 by Austrian
Andreas Kofler
EDVARD GRIEG
MUSIC OF SUCCESS
In its thousand-year history, Oslo has seen many talented greats.
Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg lived here in the 19th century
with his wife for 10 years. It was in Oslo that his career as a composer
reached its peak: he wrote music, worked as a conductor and founded the Musical Association of Christiania. The Grieg Society in Oslo
holds festivals and contests for young performers and ­composers,
in his memory. At the entrance to the Gamle Logen concert hall,
whose walls still remember Grieg’s magical music, there is a bust
of the great composer himself — his music still loved for creating
unforgettable Scandinavian imagery.
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Grev Wedels plass 2
CAPITAL OF SPORTS
A CITY FOR THE STRONG IN SPIRIT
The proximity of nature, majestic green hills, breathtaking fjords,
calm lakes, and thunderous waterfalls inspire many Norwegians
to spend every free minute in the great outdoors. Norwegians’ easy
access to outdoor sports is most likely the reason why so many
have won Olympic gold medals for skiing. Oslo also is home to the
three-time Olympic skiing champion Vegard Ulvang, while eight-time
Olympic champion and nine-time world champion Bjørne Dæhlie
has been living in the small town of Nannestad outside of Oslo for
over 40 years. Legendary biathlete and the most celebrated sportsperson in the history of skiing, Ole Einar Bjørndalen, was born not
far from the capital on 27 January 1974.
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HISTORY AND CULTURE
NANSEN, AMUNDSEN, HEYERDAHL
GREAT EXPLORERS AND TRAVELLERS
Fridtjof Nansen, famed polar explorer, founder of oceanography,
and laureate of the Nobel peace prize, was born in a suburb of Oslo
on 10 October 1861. He went on to recieve his degree at the University
of Oslo, which was also boasts pioneer polar explorer Roald Amundsen, the first person to reach the South Pole in 1911, amongst its
alummni. In April 1926, Amundsen tested his Norway airship on Ekeberg hill and flew it over the North Pole two months later. Thor Heyerdahl also graduated from the geography department at the University of Oslo. The archaeologist and ethnographer put his academic
theories to the test by crossing the oceans on the Kon-Tiki raft and
in his bamboo boat Ra. The vessels of the Norwegian explorers and
the documents detailing their expeditions are now on display in the
maritime museums on the Bygdøy peninsula.
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Bygdøynesveien 36
26 000 people took
part in the tradi­
tional Oslo marathon
in 2014
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HISTORY AND CULTURE
HAVE YOU SEEN
A DEER IN A CHERRY
GARDEN?
Har dere sett et rådyr i morellhagen?
[ HAR DERE SETT ET RODUR I MORELLHAGEN? ]
The residents of the Norwegian capital
take good care of their local environment:
the forested hills with their timid inhabitants — foxes, roe deer and squirrels — the
dark lakes with their fish, the fjords and
harbours with their squalling sea gulls...
In summer, central Oslo can boast numerous beautiful flower beds, and when
the temperature falls below zero, the city
is adorned with billions of pre-Christmas
lights. The ocean climate makes for pleasant
laid-back walks, and the snow crunches under your feet even as you take a stroll in the
very centre of Oslo.
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URBAN
CURRANTS
GIFT OF THE GULFSTREAM
The wooded hills surrounding the harbour on three sides
create a special Oslo microclimate: in winter, the temperature seldom drops below –10C
while in summer, the air heats
up to 23–25C, with the water
in the fjord warming to 20–22
degrees. Thanks to the Gulfstream and the range of hills
surrounding it, Oslo has a mild
climate with no strong winds
or bad weather. In summer,
currants and cherry trees
bloom in the urban gardens,
and the parks drown in the
scent of roses. In autumn,
when the shores of the fjord
turn bright red and yellow, top
class cider is made from the
local pears and apples. In winter, the Oslofjord partially freezes over, and the tops
of the hills remain covered
with snow for long enough
to delight skiing enthusiasts.
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HISTORY AND CULTURE
SWANS, BEAVERS AND MOOSE
LIFE IN A BIG CITY
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Parks offer open
air performances
as well as shade and
Sunday fairs
Oslo has a relatively small population of less than a million — but
that’s not counting the city’s furry inhabitants. During the day, squirrels jump from tree to tree in the Palace Park, while at night you can
hear the rustling of bat wings as they fly overhead with the hooting of the owls. There are rabbits who run around the Oslofjord islands and white swans swimming in the ponds of Frognerparken
park- not too far from beavers stubbornly building their dams right
on the Aker river. In the meantime, in the Nordmarka forests there
are roe deer grazing, badgers digging their holes, and moose, the hidden master of the forest depths. And as for the trolls, whose existence the Norwegians strongly believe in, they are in no hurry to expose themselves to the deadly rays of the sun.
THOUSANDS OF PINK ROSES
OSLO’S RICH SCENT
Norway’s national symbol may be the birch tree, but the trifolium, the symbol of Oslo, has been known in this region since the
Bronze age. The mild climate of the Norwegian capital means that
from spring to late autumn the city is filled with the scent of various bushes, trees and flowers. Among the multitude of rainbow-­
coloured flower beds and planters on the main street there are
lindens smelling of honey, the Royal Palace is drowning in rich lilac aroma, and the square on the fjord embankment is smothered
in ­vibrant tulips. As you enter Frognerparken you can see Norway’s
largest collection of roses, made up of more than 14 000 bushes. Just follow the scent of jasmine to get to the famous Wheel
of Life sculpture.
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ИСТОРИЯ И КУЛЬТУРА
NORTHEN LIGHTS IN OSLO
59°54′45″ DEGREES OF NORTHERN LATITUDE
Oslo is located on the same latitude as Saint Petersburg. Even
though the climate in the Norwegian capital is markedly different
from that in the Russian city, Oslo is also able to enjoy the famous
“white nights.” In early summer, as the white nights take hold, life
in Oslo never stops: there are singsongs in the parks, folk dance festivals on the embankment, and salsa parties. In winter, the generous
Norway capital may give you a mysterious gift of untold value — the
pearly Northern Lights flaming against the velvet dark sky of Oslo.
The dancing aurora creates a fairy tale sensation that you will never want to end.
103 000
km is the length
of Norway’s coast­
line, second in size
only to Canada
www.visitnorway.ru/things-to-do/nature-attractions/northern-lights
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MUSEUMS
HOW DO I GET
TO THE MUSEUM?
HVORDAN KOMMER JEG MEG TIL MUSEET?
[ VURDAN KOMMER YAI MAI TIL MUSEE? ]
Norway’s capital is full of surprises. On the
top of Holmenkollen hill stands Europe’s
oldest museum of skis, where the world’s
longest ski pole sits proudly on display.
In the cosy neighbourhood of Kvadraturen,
you will find both the Museum of Modern Art and the National Museum of Architecture. Next door, there’s the world’s
only Museum of Miniature Bottles, as well
as the Cinema House with a broad selection
of movies. The famous Bygdøy peninsula
is home to a whole cluster of sights: Viking
ships and papyrus boats, legendary schooners and balsa rafts — all inviting you to partake in the mysteries of their travels.
22
RAM SCHOONER MUSEUM
THREE VICTORIES OF AN ICEBREAKER
The three-mast schooner was built on the orders of Fridtjov Nansen in 1892 for his expedition to the North Pole. Even at the time,
it seemed as if the expedition was sure to succeed. The name Fram
means “Forward” in Norwegian and its pioneering spirit combined
with the knowledge and bravery of the Norwegian explorers onboard
to ensure the success of the Fram’s three famous expeditions. Visitors at the Fram Museum can watch an exciting film about the dangers of the sea voyages, and even get onboard the legendary schooner to stand at her helm. You can also examine equipment belonging
to the first man to reach the South Pole, Roald Amundsen, admire
the view of the Northern Lights, try your hand as a polar explorer,
and, finally, get your own small piece of the Fram: a copy of the last
century utensils which were used on the schooner.
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Bygdøynesveien 36, www.frammuseum.no
MUSEUM OF VIKING SHIPS
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF MEDIEVAL PIRATES
The era of the Vikings is full of mysteries. In the late 19th and early 20th century, the great longships that took these elite ­warriors
on their final journeys were excavated from burial grounds in Norway. Now these longships are on display, allowing you to get
a glimpse into the life of these medieval pirates and traders. There
are three well preserved longships loaded with valuables such
as weapons, decorations, utensils and fabrics — all buried in a thick
layer of clay that shielded them from oxygen and allowed them
to survive practically intact. After some restoration, the longships
were put on display in the Museum of Viking Ships. The museum
also has a carved sleigh and cart, images of animal heads and cats,
a loom and items that the Vikings traded with.
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Huk aveny 35, www.khm.uio.no/besok-oss/vikingskipshuset
KON-TIKI MUSEUM
ADVENTURES OF THOR HEYERDAHL
18
million crowns
(in the modern equivalent) was allocated
by the Norwegian
parliament for the
construction of the
Fram schooner,
which went on unprecedented expeditions to Greenland,
the Arctic and
the Antarctic from
1893 to 1912
24
Thor Heyerdahl is famous far beyond Norway. It’s no wonder: in
1947 he crossed the Pacific Ocean from Peru to Polynesia on a tiny
balsa raft in 101 days, disproving all conventional theories at the time
by showing that the first settlers of Polynesia could have come from
South America. In 1970 he gathered an international team and crossed
the Atlantic on his Ra-2 sailing boat, showing that the ancient Egyptians could have reached America long before Columbus. At this private museum you can see the legendary Ra-2 boat ­alongside plenty of artefacts found in archaeological digs. You can also watch
some episodes from an Oscar-awarded documentary about
the ­Kon-Tiki voyage.
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Bygdøynesveien 36, www.kon-tiki.no
MUSEUMS
MARITIME MUSEUM
SPIRIT OF VOYAGE
The relatively small country of Norway emerges on the edge of the
huge Atlantic Ocean. Located next to the Oslofjord, The Maritime
Museum lets you sense the spirit of maritime travel, discovering the
ways of this northern, seafaring land. Surrounded by schooners and
boats, ship helms and sails, logs and compasses, you’ll soon feel like
an old skipper. Watch a movie about a breathtaking journey along the
Norway’s coast on a panoramic screen, and learn about the history
of the local ship building industry.
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23,22
metres is the length
of Gokstad Viking
longship found
in a suburb of Oslo
in 1879
Bygdøynesveien 37, www.marmuseum.no
25
MUSEUMS
DO YOU
LOVE ART?
LIKER DERE KUNST?
[ LIKER DERE KUNST? ]
Sitting between the coastal hills of the
­Oslofjord, the Norwegian capital has many
treasures: art galleries and fashion houses, unique open air exhibitions and amazing museum collections. Oslo’s compact
city centre is home to Norway’s best art
museums: the National Gallery, the Museum of Modern Art, the Astrup Fearnley collection, the Museum of Decorative Arts and
Design and many others.
26
NATIONAL GALLERY
NORWAY’S SOUL IN PICTURES
The Norwegian soul can truly be found at the National Gallery
in Oslo. Here the beauty and grandeur of these harsh lands manifest in beautiful landscapes by the Norwegian romantic painters.
The more realistic paintings of rural and urban life come alive in the
visual stories and legends of Theodor Kittelsen. In addition to Norwegian pieces of art, the gallery also boasts a unique collection of French
impressionists, post-impressionists and cubists. ­Rodin, ­Matisse, Degas,
Picasso, Van Gogh, El Greco are just a few of the artists whose works
are available in the collection of Oslo’s National Gallery.
5
C2
Universitetsgata 13, www.nasjonalmuseet.no
MUSEUMS
EDVARD MUNCH MUSEUM
THOUGHTS IN COLOUR
The unusual and innovative paintings of Norway’s most famous artist, Edvard Munch, have captured generations of artists and art aficionados around the world with their dark pallet and strong mental
anguish. Shortly before his death in 1940, the great artist bequeathed
his works to the municipal authorities of Oslo. Eighteen ­thousand
graphic sketches and over a thousand paintings are carefully kept
at the Edvard Munch Museum. The real jewel of the collection is
the Scream — one of the most mysterious and expensive paintings
of the 20th century. After the museum, have a cup of tea and a cake
in the nearby botanical garden, and reflect on what you have just
seen in the tiny café under the old ash tree.
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Tøyengata 53, www.munchmuseet.no
Astrup Fearnley Museum
MODERN ART IN a MODERN FRAME
The Modern Arts Museum newest building was designed by the renowned Niels Torp Architects with famous Italian architect Renzo Piano, and is rightfully regarded as a 21st century masterpiece. The museum invites you to experience and form your own views on the
works of famous 20th and 21st century artists such as Francis Bacon,
Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman and Odd Nerdrum. The true ­treasure
of the collection is the world’s largest and heaviest (32 tonnes) bookshelf crafted by Anselm Kifer, and Jeff Koons’ famous sculpture
of a gold-plated monkey being embraced by Michael Jackson.
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Strandpromenaden 2, www.afmuseet.no
HENIE-UNSTAD ARTS CENTRE
ART AS VIEWED BY FIGURE SKATER
In 1968, Norwegian figure skater and Olympic star Sonja Henie founded one of Norway’s most famous modern art centres some 10 km
west of Oslo’s center. The museum’s collection boasts works by famous artists and sculptors from the mid-20th century, including
­Matisse, Miro, Picasso, De Staël, and Moore. There is also a special
hall where you can see the famous figure skater’s trophies, including
three Olympic gold medals. The Henie-Ustad center actively hosts
exhibitions, concerts, seminars, and workshops for children.
11
Edvard Munch paintings adorn the convention hall at the
University of Oslo
Sonja Henies vei 31, Høvikodden, www.hok.no
29
MUSEUMS
ONCE UPON A TIME
MANY YEARS AGO…
DET VAR EN GANG…
[ DET VAR EN GANG… ]
Norwegians treat their history and traditions with great care. Look at the huge number of museums devoted to life in Norway
across the ages, and you’ll find exhibitions about the great polar explorers, museums focusing on the minutiae of medieval farms, information on the history of the
national costume and the secrets of local jewellers, museums about the evolution
of folk music and even exhibitions on local
glass technology. Both simple and complex,
well-known and surprising: together they
weave a story about how the country lived
many years ago…
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FOLK / ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM
LINK OF TIMES
A shady forest is home to one of Europe’s oldest and largest open
air museums. Some 200 structures ranging from peasant ­houses
to barns, stables, bathhouses, mansions from all over Norway are
gathered here in an eclectic collection of national colours. Hospitable guides wearing national costume and bunads will tell you about
the ancient traditions of Norway while a local folk band play foot
tapping dance music on Norwegian national instruments. Those
who are fond of antiquities will appreciate the beauty of the 12 century wooden church with dragons sculpted on the roof. Guests are
also treated to sugar candies in the bakery of the carefully recreated old town.
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Museumsveien 10, www.norskfolkemuseum.no
MUSEUMS
HISTORY MUSEUM
COLLECTION OF NATIONAL ARTEFACTS
40 000 science and
technology exhibits
are found in the Science and Technology
Museum
32
Belonging to the University of Oslo, the history museum’s collections are housed in a four-storey art nouveau building. There are
huge numbers of gold artefacts dating back to the Viking era as well
as other precious exhibits that are sure to be appreciated by anyone interested in jewellery or coins. The ethnographical collections
give you a glimpse at ancient Egyptian mummies and sarcophaguses, introduce you to the rich traditions of the Arctic and Sub-­Arctic
regions, and display the culture and art of East Asia. A collection
of medieval Norwegian artefacts will be of special interest, as will
the collection of unique artefacts from the Roald Amundsen’s expedition along the Northern sea route in 1903–1906.
5
С2
Frederiks gate 2, www.khm.uio.no/besok-oss/historisk-museum
MUSEUMS
MUSEUM OF DECORATIVE ARTS
AND DESIGN
SNAPSHOTS OF BEAUTY
The Museum of Decorative Arts and Design was founded 130 years
ago. It is housed in an elegant brick townhouse in central Oslo and
showcases a large collection of fashion, design and decorative arts
items. In the halls of the museum you can find luxurious royal attire, old chests with traditional Norwegian decorative painting, massive cups and delicate Norwegian pottery, church utensils and ornate
jewellery as well as an impressive collection of glass and ceramics.
5
D2
Olavs gate 1,
St.
ww.nasjonalmuseet.no/no/besok_oss/visningssteder/
w
kunstindustrimuseet
POP MUSIC CENTRE
LIFE’S BUT A SONG
The interactive museum of Norwegian pop music in Oslo, the Popsenteret, was opened in 2011 on the territory of an old Christian
Shuh beer brewery, being named Norweigian Museum of the Year
just two years later. A vast collection of audio, video, artefacts and
musical equipment allows visitors to trace the country’s pop history, while a recording studio on site allows people to try their hand
at being a singer. Music lovers will be delighted to hear rare records
and buy antique books in the Posenteret’s curiosity shop, while
novices can go on many an excursion or attend a workshop organised by the museum.
5
E2
The English word
Thursday comes
from the name of the
Norwegian god Thor
and was originally
pronounced
Thor’s Day
Тrondheimsveien. 2, www.popsenteret.no
33
MUSEUMS
ARE YOU AFRAID
OF SPIDERS?
ER DERE REDDE FOR EDDERKOPPER?
[ ER DERE REDDE FOR EDERKOPPER? ]
Many Norwegian families spend their Sundays on sports grounds and in museums.
Children of any age can find something to do
in Oslo. When the sun is out, mothers and
their babies head to the amusement park for
a broad variety of rides, while in cold weather children can enjoy the various excursions
and workshops offered by the city’s sundry
museums. Want to know what the first Norwegian plane looked like? Interested in what
spiders and crocodiles eat? Fancy learning about how oil is extracted, or whether
squeezing your eyes shut really can help you
combat your fear? Kids can find answers and
so much more in Oslo’s museums.
34
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
MUSEUM
A TREAT FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS
The century-old Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology is an
interactive knowledge centre for kids and adults alike. Over 25 permanent and rotating exhibitions will introduce you to science and
technology. Have fun learning about various industries, telecommunications, information technologies, medicine, engineering, oil production and oil refining — just to name but a few. In this museum
you will find the first car, the first plane and the first steam engine
manufactured in Norway, plus a unique collection of time-pieces
and musical instruments alongside hundreds of other interesting exhibits. On weekends and during school holidays, the museum offers
fun workshops for all young lovers of science and technology.
Kjelsåsveien 143, www.tekniskmuseum.no
MUSEUMS
600
kg is the weight
of the 7 meter monument to the paperclip erected in Oslo
in 1991 by Norwegian
stationery company
O. Mustad & Son.
An invention resembling the modern paperclip was patented
by Norwegian Johan
Voler back in 1901
INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM
OF CHILDREN’S ART
COLOURS OF CHILDHOOD
Every once in a while, we all want to escape from the world of adult
problems and go back to our childhood: seeing the world around
us in bright colours just the way that kids do. If you’re after an escape from grown-up life, then visit the International Museum
of Children’s Art in Oslo. The first of its kind, the museum’s goal
is to find and preserve the world’s best art created by children. Here
you can see the world through their eyes in a collection comprising
of thousands of exhibits, including paintings, sculptures and sketches by children from over 150 countries. There is also a collection
of unusual dolls from across the globe, and a library of children’s
books in different languages. The museum also hosts exhibitions
with specific themes, offers workshops, and generally celebrates
the colours of childhood.
Lille Frøens vei 4, www.barnekunst.no
REPTILES PARK
WHERE DID THE CROCODILE HAVE HIS LUNCH?
In the very heart of Oslo, not far from the Government q
­ uarter, there
is a heavy door with a plaque depicting a green snake. Go through
it and you enter a completely different world. It is dark in here and
in the glass boxes of various shapes you will find grass snakes, pythons, geckos and goannas, chameleons and brightly coloured poisonous frogs, macabre tarantulas and the world’s most poisonous
spider, the black widow. The most popular inhabitant is the dwarf
crocodile that looks glumly at the lively sea fish in the aquarium.
The most daring visitors can hold the exotic reptiles or at least watch
them being fed.
5
D2
36
St. Olavs gate 2, www.reptilpark.no
TUSENFRYD AMUSEMENT PARK
ONLY STARS ARE ABOVE US
Just a 20-minute ride south of Oslo you find the popular Tusenfryd
amusement park where the whole day can go unnoticed. The picturesque grounds on a hill in a pine grove feature lots of rides for
kids of all ages: there are bright merry-go-rounds for younger children, high wooden slides and a 5D horror room for adrenalin junkies,
and summer means the opening of the water park, paddling pools,
rock climbing wall and cycling tracks. Tusenfryd’s special pride
is the ­Viking Land theme park with a 4D cinema and medieval styled
rides. If you do get hungry, there are plenty of little cafes spread
across the park.
11
beaches can be found
in Oslo and its suburbs if swimming
is what you’re after
Høyungsletta 20, Vinterbro, www.tusenfryd.no
37
MUSEUMS
PEACE TO THE
WORLD
FRED I VERDEN
[ FRED I VERDEN ]
The constantly warring Vikings are a thing
of the past in Norway. These days the country is all about peace on Earth. The Nobel
Centre, the Resistance Museum, and the International Theatre Festival bring together people who want to unpick the history
of human conflict and endevour to prevent
all such conflict in the future. It is no wonder that the doors to Oslo’s main administrative building, the Town Hall, are always
open. The number of exhibitions and seminars on cooperation and avoiding conflict the city hosts is living proof of the value Norwegians place on good relations
and peace.
38
TOWN HALL
SEEING THE MAYOR
The central square next to the fjord is where you can find the grand
town hall building. Its towers have long been the landmark that people use to navigate through Oslo, while the sound of its bells creates
a festive atmosphere in the city. The town hall is a multifunctional structure: the high towers house the administrative offices, while
the big conference hall in the central building is for holding various
events, including the Nobel Peace Prize award ceremony. The town
hall was completed in 1950 and is regarded as a typical example
of Norwegian art and architecture of the early to mid-20th century. The stories you’ll find on the decorative paintings, tapestries and
frescos inside will introduce you to the history and culture of this
amazing country.
5
C2
Rådhusplassen 1
MUSEUMS
MUSEUM OF THE RESISTANCE
WORLD WAR II THROUGH THE EYES OF THE NORWEGIANS
A small building with a tiled roof houses the Museum of the Resistance, dedicated to the huge tragedy — German occupation of Norway in 1940–1945. The five long years between the German invasion
and the liberation of the country come to life in photographs, documents, posters, guerrilla leaflets, newspapers and audio recordings
from the time. Self-made weapons, skis used by the guerrillas, underground printing presses and radios, are amongst the unique exhibits found in the museum. A special stand is also devoted to the
Holocaust: of 760 Norwegian Jews, only 24 survived the Nazi occupation.To find out more about them, you can visit the Jewish Museum
in Oslo or the Holocaust Centre on Bygdøy peninsula.
5
C3
Bygning 21, Akershus festning, www.forsvaretsmuseer.no
IBSEN MUSEUM
THE ABODE OF A PLAYWRIGHT
The design of Oslo’s
flag, featuring the
city’s patron Saint
Hallvard against
a blue background,
was approved in 2000
40
The four storey townhouse across the street from Royal Park
is where famous Norwegian writer Henrik Ibsen spent the last
11 years of his life alongside his wife. Their large apartment on the
fourth floor features an antique piano and chandeliers, old furnaces covered in carvings, and elegant furniture from the late 19th century, including heavy curtains and a collection of paintings from its
famous owner. As you learn about the life and work of the famous
writer, you can almost hear the ponderous footsteps of the famous
playwright himself.
5
С2
Henrik
Ibsens gate 26,
www.norskfolkemuseum.no/en/Related-units/The-Ibsen-Museum
MUSEUMS
Nobel Peace Prize Centre
THE STORY OF ONE AWARD
The Nobel Peace prize is awarded every year in Oslo. The Nobel
Peace Prize Centre tells visitors about the history of the award, its
recipients, the conflicts they helped to resolve and about the never
ending search for peace and cooperation. The centre features interactive exhibits, numerous seminars, contests for children and excursions for adults. The true aim to engage as many people as possible
to the pursuit of world peace.
5
C2
Brynjulf Bulls plass 1, www.nobelpeacecenter.org
1.30 pm is the time
the guards change
at the Royal Palace
in Oslo
41
WALKS
WHERE DOES
THE KING OF
NORWAY LIVE?
Hvor bor kongen av Norge?
[ VUR BUR KONGEN AV NORGE? ]
For over 100 years now the Norwegian monarchs have had their official residence on
a hill in the centre of Oslo while their summer residence is located on a peninsula 3 km
from the Royal Palace. In the middle ages the
royal family stayed in the stone fortress on
the coast of the harbour that the rest of the
city was built around in the 17th century.
­Going for a stroll through Oslo, make sure
you wear comfortable shoes: the cobblestone streets of the old town, the resounding corridors of the castle, the promenades
leading to the palace will tell you about the
history and life of the Norwegian capital.
42
ПРОГУЛКИ
SECRETS OF MEDIEVAL CASTLE
AKERHUS FORTRESS
On the rocky cliffs towering above Pipervika harbour there sits the
medieval Akerhus castle. It was built in the 13th century by King
Magnus V and over its history it fended off a lot of hostile attacks.
Today it stands guard over Norway’s national relics: the royal mausoleum and a chapel with an ornate altar, a large arsenal of weapons in the Military Museum and the grim artefacts of the Museum
of the Resistance. Whether you are taking a stroll down the shady
­alleys of the park or looking at the solemn portraits hanging on the
walls of the castle, you can’t escape the medieval spirit and the walls
of the old prison still feel cold and uninviting.
5
C3
Festningsplassen,
www.forsvarsbygg.no/festningene/Festningene/
Akershus-festning
43
WALKS
LEGENDS OF THE STONE TOWN
WALKING IN KVADRATUREN
99%
of Oslo residents
are happy with their
quality of life according to latest
­European commission studies
44
The famous city planner, Danish King Christian IV, issued a decree
in 1624 after a big fire that wiped Oslo off the map that a stone city
was to be constructed around the walls of the Akerhus castle. The
king decreed that the streets in the new city be laid out in a grid pattern, broad and intersecting at right angles. Today, the old Kvadraturen district has got all you need for a pleasant walk: art galleries
and modern art museums, pompous restaurants offering national
cuisine and cosy cafes smelling of pastry, noisy pubs and quiet gardens with fountains and benches under lilac bushes.
www.kvadraturenoslo.no
ПРОГУЛКИ
A STROLL AROUND THE CENTRE
AND ALONG THE EMBANKMENT
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE CITY’S EVOLUTION
Taking a stroll down Oslo’s main street is like taking a lesson not
just in the history of the city but also in the history of the kingdom
of Norway as a whole. Karl Johan street is just one kilometre long
but it is lined with all sorts of elegant buildings: the Royal Palace surrounded by a park, the Parliament Building, the National Theatre and
the University of Oslo, the Town Hall and the Cathedral, the Grand
Hotel and the Christiania Theatre. There is also a small park with
lots of sculptures and fountains where a skating rink is open in winter. A five-minute walk away from the main street there’s the district
of former shipyards, Aker-Brugge. In the past few years a new district called Tjuvholmen sprang up next to it. The city’s main embankment today is a combination of old architecture and new glass and
concrete structures, stylish restaurants, fashionable museums and
art galleries.
5
D2
Karl Johans gate
Erik Johannes Bruce,
Chief Analyst, Research Norway
GRUNERLØKKA
PARADES, FAIRS AND FESTIVALS
MAIN EVENTS OF THE CITY
Every season in Oslo brings some events or other. Thus, in late
spring, on 17 May, when the city is drowning in lilac, the country’s
main parade is held that commemorates the Day of the Constitution:
it features brightly coloured national costumes and school bands
marching through the city centre, kids with flags and ice cream
heading for the royal palace where the king and members of the royal family greet them from a balcony… Summer is a time of festivals: film festivals, food festivals, music festivals, sport and history festivals, you name it. Autumn is the harvest time and numerous
farmers’ fairs open all over the city where you can buy fresh vegetables and smoked meat that will last you through the winter as well
as delicious fish, deer meat, whale meat, raspberry jam and other
delicacies. Winter and spring is a time when Oslo hosts sporting and
musical events.
I love Grunerløkka. That is the
area with lots of small trendy
shops, cafes and restaurants
offering fresh produce of their
own make. It is also close
to the Akerselva (a river) and
one could walk down there
and visit the new Mathallen
market. Here one could buy
food from all over the world
and, of course, Norwegian traditional delicacies!
Grünerløkka
www.visitoslo.com/en/whats-on/festivals
45
WALKS
HOW MANY
ISLANDS ARE THERE
IN THE FJORD?
Hvor mange øyer er det i en fjord?
[ VUR MANGE EYER ER DE I EN FYORD? ]
Oslo residents are islanders in spirit as they
live on about four dozen islands in the
fjord. Many own houses on the shore of the
bay and you can often see them on the
open terraces of their properties, admiring the sunset with a glass of wine in hand.
Some love to move in next to well-appointed parks and as they’re heading home after work they enjoy breathing in the honey
aroma of the lime trees while others prefer
the primeval nature of the islands.
46
ПРОГУЛКИ
ISLAND PARADISE
QUIET IDYL OF THE FJORD ISLANDS
At first sight Oslo looks compact but those in the know are aware
that in terms of territory Oslo is one of the largest capital cities
in Europe. It includes about 40 islands in the fjord, each of which has
a legend of its own. Thus Bygdøy peninsula is home to 6 museums
and the summer residence of the Norwegian monarchs, Hyvedeya
island has the stone ruins of a Cistercian monastery, Langeyne island offers the best sand beaches in town while Gressholmen, Rambergeya and Heggholmen with their cosy harbours are perfect picnic destinations. It takes about 10 minutes by ferry to get away from
the hustle and bustle of central Oslo to the idyllic peace and quiet
of island life.
5
C4
www.oslofjorden.com
47
ПРОГУЛКИ
CONQUERING THE MARBLE
ICEBERG
WALKING ON THE ROOF OF THE OPERA THEATRE
17 000
glass elements
were manufactured
by Hadland Gassverk
for the 4 tonne
sound reflecting
chandelier at the
new Opera Theatre
48
Finding a way out of the labyrinth of alleys and bridges in the new
district is no easy task. The Barcode Project development in Bjørvika
is a treat for lovers of modern architecture. The tall, narrow buildings, so incongruous with the style of the old town, reflect the setting sun in elaborate patterns. You can finish your tour of the Norwegian Manhattan by taking a stroll on the marble rooftop of the Opera
and Ballet Theater, towering over the Oslofjord like an iceberg. In addition to top-notch productions, the theatre is famous for its unique
design. The building won Norwegian company Snøhetta several prestigious awards.
5
D3
Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, www.operaen.no
WALKS
RIGHT ON THE COAST
RELAXING ON THE BEACH AND FISHING
Relaxing on the beach and fishing are becoming more and more
popular in this northern city, where the water temperature reaches
25C in the summer. The sandy beaches on Bygdøy peninsula have always been popular, but new beaches opening in the Tjuvholmen and
Serenga districts are perfect for swimming just minutes from the city
centre, fashionable bars, cafes and museums. The new ten-kilometre
long embankment along the Oslofjord is the pride of Oslo and a perfect spot for jogging, sightseeing and fishing.
5
B3
Bygdøy
SEA BREEZE
TOUR OF THE FJORD
Many Oslo residents love to take to the waves, following in the steps
of the Vikings every weekend by boarding their yachts and traveling
by sea. The Oslofjord is more than a hundred kilometres long and
is full of picturesque islands and cosy harbors. Plenty of brightly
coloured houses line the shores — weekend retreats for Norwegian
urbanites. Typical summer pastimes include camping and picnicking on the islands, swimming in the fjord, catching crabs, or fishing
in the sea. If you want to travel further afield, there are comfortable
ferries that can take you to the neighbouring Denmark and Germany overnight.
5
B4
www.sognefjord.no
Alexander Koss,
Group Internal Audit
THE ISLANDS
If you’re keen on boating, then
I would recommend that you
take a look at the city from the
sea. Several islands in the innermost part of the Oslofjord
can be reached with public ferries from Rådhuskaia in the
city centre. The short boat trip
offers great views of both the
city and the fjord. Popular destinations include Hovedøya,
Langøyene and Gressholmen.
All of the islands also have
good spots for swimming.
49
WALKS
LET’S GO LOOK AT SOME
SCULPTURES
Vi skal se på skulpturer
[ VI SKAL SE PO SKULPTURER ]
Oslo residents often stay in the city even
while on holiday: unsurprising when yousee just how many museums, galleries, cafes, restaurants and sporting oppotunities the capital has to offer. Oslo is an ideal
holiday destination, and the parks and forests around the city have plenty of surprises in store: from unusual sculptures which
blend into the surrounding landscape,
to the simple beauty of a honey fungus
family hidden under a tree.
50
ПРОГУЛКИ
200 WAYS TO TALK ABOUT
THE ETERNAL
THE PARK AND THE SCULPTURE MUSEUM OF GUSTAV VIGELAND
Western Oslo is home to Frogner Park, a favourite destination for
­locals and tourists alike. You can find so much here: the Oslo city museum, a kids’ puppet theatre, Norway’s largest rose garden, a summer
water park, tennis courts in the summer and a skating rink in ­winter.
The main attractions are the early mid-20th century sculptures by
Gustav Vigeland, including a 17 metre granite obelisk and a ­fountain
surrounded by 20 bronze statues. There are some 58 sculptures
on one 100-metre bridge including the unofficial symbol of Oslo, the
Angry Boy. Let Vigeland’s work guide and inspire you, as the great artist explores the meaning of life — and humanity’s journey through
it — in over 200 pieces. If you want to learn more about the art and
ideas behind the work, visit the Gustav Vigeland museum.
5
B1
Kirkeveien, www.vigeland.museum.no/en/vigeland-park
51
WALKS
Elisabeth Danbolt,
Senior Internal Auditor,
Group Internal Audit
Tryvann
Vinterpark
During summertime I would
recommend taking the Metro
up to the climbing park (Oslo
Summerpark) near Tryvann.
There you can climb up and
swing between the trees using zip lines. You can choose
family routes or more extreme
paths — or perhaps something
in between. The best part
is that you challenge yourself
and get out of your comfort
zone in complete safety.
Tryvannsveien 64,
www.oslovinterpark.no
HIGH ART ON THE HIGH CLIFFS
OVER THE FJORD
OPEN AIR COLLECTION OF UNIQUE SCULPTURES
You can spend an entire day on the high Ekeberg hill, discovering
Stone Age cave art or the colonnade of the naval academy, or even
ascending the rock climbing wall. Among the age old pines you can
enjoy the work of the world famous sculptors from centuries past —
Auguste Rodin, Renoir, Aristid Maoil, and Salvador Dali — blended
harmoniously with installations by modern artists.
5
E4
52
Kongsveien 23, www.ekebergparken.com
ПРОГУЛКИ
DO YOU ENJOY GOING FOR RIDES?
BEST WAY TO GET TO KNOW OSLO
Norwegians love staying active and their capital is a great place for
it. You can rent a bicycle to ride around the city, or use Oslo’s oldest public transport system, the tram. Alternatively, you can take the
metro and head to the Olympic ski jump on Holmenkollen to enjoy
a breathtaking view of the city. The viewing area at the Skiing Museum or the Ferris wheel at the central Christmas fair are both prime
spots to appreciate Oslo’s beauty from afar. Boats and canoes allow you to enjoy the beauty of the fjord coast in summer, while the
winter is the perfect for skiing or riding in a dog sleigh amongst the
snow covered conifers of the local forests.
www.oslobysykkel.no/information-in-english
PICKING MUSHROOMS AND
BERRIES IN OSLO
WORLD OF PINE FORESTS
Oslo authorities have designated almost half of the capital’s territory as protected, non-development zones. The city’s trademark
is the recreational area located across Oslo: pine forests, waterfalls,
streams and lakes. The surrounding hills with their winding tracks
brim with the scent of forest berries, while in the autumn you can
easily pick all kinds of mushrooms without leaving the city. All forest
and skiing tracks are equipped with artificial lighting for those who
enjoy active recreation on Holmenkollen hill throughout the winter.
Head that way yourself to find the famous Olympic ski jump.
www.visitoslo.com/en/articles/nordmarka-forest/
15.4 km is the length
of Oslo’s longest
river, the Alna. Bicycle tracks were built
all along the banks,
as well as recreation
areas and beaches
53
RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND MARKETS
A DOZEN OYSTERS,
PLEASE!
KAN JEG FÅ ET DUSIN ØSTERS, ER DU SNILL?
[ KAN YAI FO ET DUSIN YOSTESH, ER DU SNILL? ]
Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen are unique
neighborhoods filled with brick structures,
old shipyards and new architectural works.
The area is replete with fashionable galleries, art museums and shops, but the most
prominent attraction is the city’s embankment. Lined with restaurants and cafes,
you’re sure to find something to cater for
any taste and any budget. In summer, both
tourists and locals can enjoy the fresh
­seafood, while in winter they sit around
the fireplace, praising the quality of the
­Norwegian national drink Aquevitt and ­other
traditional Christmas dishes.
54
Onda
LUNCH WITH A VIEW
Under an elegant wooden roof in the Oslofjord you can find one
of Oslo’s favourite restaurants, Onda. A 270-degree panorama of the
fjord, waves rustling, a view of the majestic Ekeberg hill and mysterious Akershus Castle, let alone, fresh seafood has made. Onda has
become ultimate destination for culinary pilgrimage by tourists and
locals alike. The restaurant is made up of two facilities sharing one
roof. In the Onda Grill you can order grilled king crab and mutton
saddle, while in the Onda Sea you can expect smoked salmon with
avocado and exceptional oysters.
5
C3
Stranden 30, www.onda.no
55
RESTAURANTS, CAFES
AND MARKETS
Louise
DINNER WITH SEA SMACK
Located right next to the water in a former shipyard, the ­Louise
­restaurant doubles as a museum. The brick building on the embankment has more than 1000 exhibits on display, all related to the
sea, travel and ship building. In winter, it is a perfect place to taste
a huge wine collection to the sound of logs crackling in the fireplace.
In summer, it’s better to move out onto the terrace to watch the
yachts sailing lazily by as you eat the famous fish soup with cream.
5
C3
56
Stranden 3, www.dslouise.no
RESTAURANTS, CAFES
AND MARKETS
Lofoten
ISLAND IN A SEA OF FISH
The Lofoten islands are a harsh fishing land on the north-western
coast of Norway. It is no surprise that the Oslo restaurant named
in their honor boasts a rather Spartan interior. At the entrance,
a bug-eyed lobster inspects the visitors from a fish tank. Nothing
should distract people from tasting the catch. The staff are always
ready to help you navigate the seemingly endless menu of delicacies:
steamed Atlantic cod, fried trout with carrot crème, mussels with
ginger… The festival of gourmet food is complemented with a beautiful view from the open terrace onto the bustling Aker Brygge embankment and the winding shoreline of Oslofjord.
5
C3
90
litres of milk and
19 kg of cheese is the
amount consumed
by an average Norwegian per year. Brown
goat cheese is a famous local flavour
Stranden 75, www.lofoten-fiskerestaurant.no
Tjuvholmen Sjømagasin
CLASSES IN A RESTAURANT
As the capital of a great maritime country, Oslo has plenty of seafood restaurants. This one however, is where the best chefs from all
over Europe come to learn the art of cooking seafood. Tjuvholmen
Sjømagasin is a stylish modern restaurant with a great kitchen and
an impressive selection of wines. It often hosts culinary courses for
professionals and novices alike, as well as wine tasting events with
the best sommelier of the country. The restaurant’s small fish shop
offers not only seafood delicacies, but also valuable advice and recommendations on how to best cook them at home.
5
C3
Tjuvholmen allé 14, www.sjomagasinet.no
57
RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND MARKETS
FANCY DINING IN
THE MOUNTAINS?
Liker dere å spise middag på fjellet?
[ LIKER DERE O SPISE MIDDAG PO FYELLE? ]
Central Oslo is surrounded by wooded slopes perfect for hiking and skiing.
Climb to the summit to enjoy a bird’s eye
view of the city, the bay and the picturesque islands in the Oslofjord. Many Norwegians spend weekends in the wild, with
whole families backpacking in the mountains or snowboarding amongst the snowy
peaks. One way or another, every evening
ends with a dinner at one of the cosy mountain restaurants. Your favourite Scandinavian dishes, mountain air, and a panoramic
view of Oslo: that’s the recipe for a perfect
­Norwegian meal.
58
Frognerseteren
DINNER IN A DRAGON’S LAIR
If you get tired of the bustling city streets and yearn for some peace
and quiet, head out to the summit of Holmenkollen. There weary travelers can relax in the wooden manor house, decorated with
ornate dragon carvings on the walls. Here, the local gather around
the fireplace to discuss recipes for traditional Norwegian dishes. All
of them are cooked with great care here at the manor house restaurant: sour cream mush, deer cutlets with mashed peas, fried whale
meat with pepper sauce and spinach, and legendary apple pie. In this
historic restaurant, you can taste the food of northern hunters and
fishermen while enjoying a panoramic view of the city.
Holmenkollveien 200, www.frognerseteren.no
59
RESTAURANTS, CAFES
AND MARKETS
Unni Stroemstad,
Communications, Nordea Norway
Hanami
If you’re taking a walk through
the Tjuvholmen sculpture
park, don’t miss the Astrup
Fernley museum: a newly
built museum of contemporary art in the western
part of the park. If you get
hungry, I would recommend
Hanami — a great restaurant
for Asian food situated nearby.
You can sit by the seaside and
enjoy quality Japanese seafood
and grill.
5
C3
Kanalen 1,
www.hanami.no
700
NOK is an average
price for a restaurant
lunch with a main
course and a glass
of wine
De Fem Stuer
EUROPEAN CUISINE WITH A NORWEGIAN ACCENT
The red mansion of the Scandic Holmenkollen Park restaurant and
hotel complex, standing on the slopes of Holmenkollen, is a favourite destination for nature lovers and athletes. Not only is the Olympic ski jump right the next door, but the complex ‘s breath-taking
view of Oslo and fairy tale architecture has become a calling card
for these parts. The De Fem Stuer restaurant offers the best international cuisine you can find in Norway. Appreciate the unique wooden style of the manor house while sampling a selection of delicious
dishes at a candle-lit Sunday brunch.
Kongeveien 26,
www.holmenkollenparkhotel.no/en/defemstuer
60
EkebergRestauranten
A MEAL IN A SCULPTURE PARK
High up on the Ekeberg hill stands a beautiful mansion built in the
sleek functionalist style; easily seen against a background of dark
green pines. Everything here is an aid to relaxation: from the viewing
point down onto the bay and the city itself, to the huge sun terrace
where seafoods and meat are grilled in summer. After a good meal
you can take a walk down the winding forest paths of Ekeberg Park,
ready to discover the works of the 20th and 21st century sculptors
as they blend harmoniously with the landscape.
5
E4
Kongsveien 15, 0193 Oslo
www.ekebergrestauranten.com
Grefsenkollen
FOREST RESTAURANT
Grefsenkollen hill in Oslo has numerous hiking paths. In spring, the
forest smells of fresh grass and flowers, while in autumn, the scent
of wild raspberry lingers everywhere. As well as the stunning view
of Oslo, a small wooden cottage is waiting for you at the top of the
hill. In the cottage’s large hall, resplendent with its large fireplace,
can enoy smoked eel soup with apples, ice cream and cinnamon for
dessert. Starched white cloths on the tables and black and white
photos on the walls create an atmosphere of nostalgia in the restaurant, which sits on one of the city’s most spectacular viewing points.
Grefsenkollveien 100, www.grefsenkollen.no
61
RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND MARKETS
WHAT’S THE TASTE
OF NORWAY?
Hva er smaken av Norge?
[ VA AR SMAKEN AV NORGE? ]
In the past ten years, the gastronomical
map of Oslo has got significantly bigger:
there are now plenty of new culinary centres and gourmet boutiques for anyone who
wants to figure out the ins and outs of the
national cuisine. Oslo has about 100 restaurants and cafes ready to welcome you into
a world of gastronomical tradition, giving
you a real taste of Norway and the world.
Three eateries have Michelin stars and will
make any gourmet happy with the explosions of taste on offer.
62
РЕСТОРАНЫ, КАФЕ, РЫНКИ
Maaemo
EXCLUSIVE CUISINE NORWEGIAN STYLE
When the Maaemo restaurant opened in the very heart
of Oslo in 2010, it was an international culinary event. Outstanding Norwegian chef Esben Holmboe Bang has not
only received three Michelin stars, but recognition as one
of the 100 best restaurants of the world. Norway’s natural beauty is expressed in an excellent menu of more than
20 dishes that change every season. The light hall looking
out over the Norwegian Manhattan accommodates only
eight tables. The culinary show lasts an entire evening.
The final touch to his masterpiece the chef puts himself
in front of your eyes.
5
E2
Schweigaards gate 15B, www.maaemo.no
63
RESTAURANTS, CAFES
AND MARKETS
Fjord
a GASTRONOMICAL SYMPHONY
A short distance from Oslo’s Royal Park stands one of the best seafood restaurants in the capital. The name Fjord requires no explanation: the restaurant serves seasonal seafood delicacies prepared
in the best possible way. The impeccable wine selection and the
unmatched virtuosity of the chef are the main draws for patrons.
The concept is simple: a dark blue interior and a menu consisting
of six dishes, flawlessly combining Norwegian seafood with exquisite
drinks selected by one of the best sommeliers in Oslo. The furniture is upholstered with chocolate coloured velvet. Add atmospheric
purple lighting and you have an atmosphere of understated luxury —
spot on for when it comes to enjoying Norwegian seafood delicacies.
5
C2
64
Kristian August gate 11, www.restaurantfjord.no
RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND
MARKETS
Østbanhallen-Ø
INTERSECTION OF TASTES
In 2015, Oslo’s old Eastern train station was converted into a true intersection of tastes. The now stylish food court consists of eight restaurants and a gourmet food market. Even as you walk through the
doors, the flavour of coffee and fresh pastries are sure to draw you
inside. The original metal structures support a fragile glazed domed
roof, ensuring it is light and cosy inside regardless of the weather.
Beer from the local brewery complements the menu at the pub inside and is bound to be appreciated by anyone who likes good homecooking. Culinary traditions from Norway, France, Italy and Asia can
also be found in the restaurants and cafes throughout the building,
catering to the tastes of travellers from around the world.
5
D2
Jernbanetorget 1, 0154 Oslo, www.ostbanehallen.no
Mathallen
WORLD OF CULINARY DISCOVERIES
The Mathallen culinary and gastronomical centre was opened in
a renovated 20th century factory back in 2012. Now it houses over
30 gourmet boutiques, bars and restaurants, with menus ­offering
Norwegian, Italian, French, German and Asian cuisine. Here you can
taste just about anything under one roof. The best local ­producers
combine with tasting departments, workshops and shops to ensure
oneculinary discovery after another. In Mathallen’s relaxed atmosphere you can enjoy over one hundred cheeses, foamy cider, Norwegian beer from small mountain breweries, and dandelion jam and
heather honey. The smiling chefs at the fishmongers might even
be able to tell you in which fjord your meal was caught.
5
D1
Vulkan 5, www.mathallenoslo.no
12
spices are used
in Norwegian Christmas festivals and
­viands. They include
cinnamon, vanilla, cloves, nutmeg,
­juniper berry and
cardamom
65
RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND MARKETS
WHERE DID HENRIK
IBSEN HAVE
LUNCH?
Hvor har Henrik Ibsen spist?
[ VUR HAR HENRIK IBSEN SPIST? ]
Oslo is over one thousand years old. What
was once a small settlement of wooden
cabins at the foot of Ekeberg hill has nowgrown into a large 21st century metropolis with a bustling nightlife and outstanding restaurants to surprise even the most
sophisticated gourmets. Immerse yourself
in the history of this unusual city: discover the interior of a 17th century jeweller’s
house, look at the portraits in theatre café,
and check out the favourite café of writer Henrik Ibsen — perfect for tasting the
­classic Norwegian herring.
66
РЕСТОРАНЫ, КАФЕ, РЫНКИ
Gamle Raadhus
PTION AT THE TOWN hall
Danish king Christian IV built Oslo’s town hall built in 1641. In addition to offices and the hall itself, the building originally also housed
the town jail. In the 19th century, the building was the seat of the Supreme Court, and in the 20th century, it was home to the local masonic lodge. Today, the old town hall is a cosy restaurant with a classic interior, offering a great seasonal menu. Between October and
December you can come here to enjoy the Norwegian Christmas
delicacy lutefisk, or fish soaked in alkaline solution. Between January
and March, pink Lofoten cod is served. In spring, they offer dishes
with asparagus, while in summer and early autumn you can discover
culinary masterpieces made from seafood, game and wild fowl.
5
D3
Nedre Slottsgate 1, www.gamleraadhus.no
67
RESTAURANTS, CAFES
AND MARKETS
Theatercafeen
MEET THE IN-CROWD
30
NOK is the average
price of a cup of coffee in Oslo’s cafés
Opened across the street from the National theatre in 1900, the
Theatercafeen has become the favourite meeting spot for Oslo’s
in-crowd. Artists, politicians and university professors all gather
here to engage in conversation over a cup of choice coffee. For over
100 years, people have been coming here to discuss theatrical premiers, celebrate anniversaries, or just enjoy the top-class ­seasonal
menus.Under the high arched ceilings of this Viennese-style café,
you’ll be able to see over 80 portraits of Norwegian artists, actors
and performers that have frequented the establishment both past
and present.
5
C2
7 types of pastry are
traditionally served
at Christmas dinner by Norwegian
families
68
Stortingsgaten 24–26, www.theatercafeen.com
Engebret
FACES OF HISTORY
For over 150 years, the Engebret restaurant has been welcoming customers to its green garden on Bank Square in the Kvadraturen neighbourhood. Henrik Ibsen, Edvard Grieg, Knut Hamsun, Edvard Munch
all loved this place, and artists, writers, journalists and actors all frequent Engebret to this day. Dropping by the restaurant is the perfect
finale to a tour of Kvadraturen with its 10 museums. Here you can
try traditional Norwegian dishes such as home salted herring, cold
smoked whale fillet, deer carpaccio with fried goat cheese, roe deer
medallion with thyme and mashed celery.
5
D3
Bankplassen 1, www.engebret-cafe.no
Statsholdergaarden
TRIUMPH OF TASTE AND STYLE
One of the oldest estates in central Oslo is the mid-17th century
home of jeweller Peter Gruner. Within the walls of this exquisite establishment the hustle and bustle of the big metropolis gives way
to the luxury of the old interior and exuberance of exquisite taste.
High ceilings with stuccos, crystal chandeliers, heavy curtains and
choice wines in the cellar make for an ideal environment for a top
class restaurant, which now boasts a Michelin star. Choice dishes include turtledove breast with currant sauce, ray fish and artichokes,
and duck hearts and chestnuts. The arched wine cellar sports more
ascetic interior and more democratic prices. Every 6 weeks gourmets
can try a new 10-dish menu from famous chef Bent Stiansen.
5
D3
Rådhusgate 11, www.statholdergaarden.no
3,08
meters is the height
of the world’s largest
ice cream cone, made
by Norwegian company Hennig-­Olsen.
It was registered
by the Guinness book
of Records experts
in 2015
69
SHOPPING
A SHOPPING TRIP
TO THE CAPITAL
Kjøper gaver i hovedstaden
[ SCHOPER GAVER I HUVEDSTADEN ]
The 21st century Oslo is a sprawling metropolis with a rather compact central
area. Its layout enables you to quickly navigate through numerous department stores,
boutiques and small shops. World famous
luxury brands are found in the city centre, while the district behind Royal Park
is known for its exclusive boutiques: perfect for finding a cocktail dress to wear for
a dinner party or reception. The streets adjacent to the University of Oslo are home
to numerous second-hand book stores and
curiosity shops.
70
MAGIC OF RETAIL CENTRES
FASHION TRENDS IN CENTRAL OSLO
Oslo’s main street, Karl Johans gate, is awash in fashionable r­ etail
centres. The most popular shopping destinations in Oslo are City
and Byporten. The Paleet department store, with its honey color­
ed interiors, exudes luxury, and offers three dozen or more exclu­
sive boutiques alongside restaurants and cafes. The Edge retail
centre is home to more than 300 fashionable clothing and acces­
sories brands from all around the world. A short distance from
Karl ­Johans gate you can find the oldest department store in town,
Steen og Strøm. Its six floors house clothes shops for children and
adults as well as spas, salons, and cafes.
5
D2
Karl Johans gate
SHOPPING
1st
place in Europe
in terms of per capita
candle consumption
belongs to ­Norway.
The modern descendants of the
­Vikings love warmth
and cosiness and
decorative candles
are lit up in Norwegian homes regardless of whether it is
a holiday or not
BEAUTY SCAND
LOOKING FOR NATIONAL TREASURE
Glassmagasinet opened its doors in 1899. For over one hundred years
it’s been drawing both locals and tourists in the search for gifts for
family and friends. An endlessly broad range of interior items both
by famous Scandinavian and foreign designers are on show here.
There is also a broad selection of glass and porcelain items, ­silver,
and tin utensils. Want to pick up a truly Scandinavian souvenir?
A chandelier shaped like deer antlers or a wooden penguin figurine?
Perhaps an apple made from a cork tree? Head for House of Oslo,
Norway Designs and Pur norsk. Be sure to take note of the blue Tax
Free Global Blue Norway emblem: you can get a 19 percent refund
on that item’s price when you leave Norway.
5
D2
Stortorvet 9, www.glasmagasinet.com
FASHIONISTAS
OSLO’S BOUTIQUE DISTRICTS
Oslo’s compact city centre means that you can simply walk from one
trendy district to another. The best place to start is in the shops next
to the Royal Palace in Hegdehaugsveien street. Having taken in the
bright showcases, you can gradually move towards the city’s main
shopping street, Bogstadveien. Here you can buy clothes for adults
and children, sports goods and furniture. After having a cup of cof­
fee in one of the cosy snack bars on Bogstaveien, go on to Bygdøy
allé. Here, even the pickiest fashionistas are going to find something
to buy. If you are into the latest youth fashion trends, head for Grun­
nerløkka on the Aker Brygge embankment.
72
SHOPPING
A GREAT TREAT FOR BARGAIN
HUNTERS
OSLO SALES
There is very little traffic in Oslo, and the city seems to have been
custom designed for leisurely walking from shop to shop. ­Spacious
retail centres are staffed with polite personnel to make shopping
a really pleasant and relaxing experience — rather than a chore.
Many shops offer various sales all year round, but twice a year, af­
ter Christmas and at the end of summer, the major department
stores are abuzz with crowds of shoppers ready for the sales season.
A sale in Oslo means that good quality items can be had for as much
as 70 percent discount, perfect for treating yourself or buying gifts
for friends and family.
17
billion crowns was
spent by the Norwegians to buy sporting
equipment in 2015
73
SHOPPING
Have you got
a Viking helmet?
Har dere en vikinghjelm?
[ HAR DERE EN VIKINGYELM? ]
The ergonomic design of Scandinavian furniture and interior items and subdued colours of Scandinavian fashion are becoming
more and more popular all over the world.
Nevertheless, hand-crafted folk items radiating warmth and love can still be found
here: from chests with rosemaling patterns
or hand-sewn national bunads, to wooden kitchen utensils or warm woollen plaids.
Mysterious trolls, hand-painted plates,
Thune golden brooches or smoked deer
meat and heather honey: choosing your
perfect Oslo souvenir is up to you!
74
FROM
NORWAY
WITH LOVE…
NORWEGIAN SOUVENIRS
In the harsh Norwegian cli­
mate, woollen garments
make up the core of an­
yone’s winter wardrobe.
It is no surprise that highquality warm sweaters
with traditional Scandina­
vian patterns are a popular
gift, alongside troll figures
and Viking helmets. Souve­
nirs with which to remem­
ber Norway can be found
in the two-storey Troll
Shop in central Oslo. Luxu­
ry woollen clothes blend­
ing traditional and modern
fashion trends, multi-­
coloured cardigans and
vests, palatines and acces­
sories to go with them can
all be bought in the Oleana
boutique. And if you’re af­
ter national costumes
and folk craft items, such
as kitchen utensils and
other useful hand-craft­
ed items, Der Norske Hus­
fliden is your destination
of choice.
75
SHOPPING
3000
EUR is the average
price for a Norwegian
bunad made to order. The whole process, from taking the
measurements to delivering the bunada,
takes 2 months
NOSTALGIA FOR
A REASONABLE PRICE
ANTIQUE SHOPS AND SUNDAY MARKETS IN OSLO
The weekend is a good time to learn about the past, rediscovering the
beauty of porcelain figurines, the wisdom of old leather bound books,
and the cozy glow of a worn lamp. If used books and antique jewel­
lery is your thing, head for the antique shops on Universitetsgaten.
If you want to come across something from the days of yore, check
out the weekend flea markets on Vestkanttorvet square and in Birke­
lunden park. You can also head for the unusual creative ­centre of Blå
to find the most unorthodox blending of the old and the new, from
modern designer items to items worn by fashionistas of the 30s.
FOLK CRAFTS IN NORWAY
AGE OLD BEAUTY STANDARDS
Just over a hundred years ago, Norway was one of the poorest
­nations in Europe. Gold and other expensive materials were a ­rarity
that only the kings could afford. Local standards of hand-­crafted
beauty naturally emerged in far-flung villages and farms. People used
whatever materials they could get their hands on: iron, wood, and
tin. They often ended up creating true masterpieces that you can find
today in the Den Norske Husfliden shop. Here you can see luxurious
folk costumes with elaborate hand-made embroideries and tradition­
al silver adornments from the various regions of the country. There
are also features on patterned wooden utensils and heavy tinware,
as well as lots of useful little hand-made items for the home.
5
D2
76
Stortorvet 9
SHOPPING
EDIBLE GIFTS FROM THE CAPITAL
SMOKED FISH, GOAT CHEESE AND CLOUDBERRY JAM
Norway has always been famous for its seafood delicacies.The locals
both fish and hunt, and when the table is set, game and fowl stand
alongside fish, cheeses and sauces. Fenaknoken stands just a few
minutes walk from the Town Hall on Tordenskiolds Gate Street and
sells Norwegian culinary curiosities. There you can find deer tongue,
smoked moose meat, condensed milk flavoured cheese, ­aromatic
raspberry honey, Norwegian beer, port wine from local breweries
and, of course, all kinds of fish.
5
С2
Tordenskiolds gate 12
57
is the average number of times each
year that a Norwegian household buys
fish or other seafoods: cod and trout
are the traditional
favourites
77
NIGHTLIFE
Shall we dance
or play chess?
SKAL VI DANSE ELLER SPILLE SJAKK?
[ SKAL VI DANSE ELLER SPILLE SHAKK? ]
The night life in Norway’s capital is ­different
from the noisy parties in other European
cities. Most clubs here don’t have a dress
code and close at 3 am. Here everyone
can find something to entertain: whether it is Irish folk, dark metal, salsa dancing or techno-trance or perhaps just a cosy
leather chair and a heart-to-heart talk.
­Oslo’s nightlife has something to offer
­everyone.
78
Blå
CREATIVE EXPLOSION ON THE RIVER BANK
Norway’s creative personalities meet at Blå Club: a cult venue
housed in the red brick building of a former diamond and gold warehouse on the bank of the Aker river.
The interior sports a huge chandelier, bright graffiti on the walls and
sculptures from re-bars promising an unconventional pastime. The
club offers a broad selection of events from literary and bingo nights
to young designers’ fairs and concept performances, including jazz,
reggae, rock, hip hop, folk, and metal. In summer, you can just kick
back in the cafe here, forget about the noise of the city and watch
the river flow past.
Brenneriveien 9C, www.blaaoslo.no
79
NIGHTLIFE
The Villa Dancing Oslo
DANCING IN OSLO
Quality music, sound, and special effects are the three pillars
on which lies the success of this Oslo establishment. Ranked highly
among the world’s top 100 dance clubs by DJ Mag in 2009, the nightlong dances attract both locals and tourists. In 2008 the Villa Dancing
Oslo was listed among the world’s best clubs according to the readers of the Resident Advisor. Aside from the big names, the club regularly holds the Open Deck event for DJs who are just starting out.
Møllergata 23–25, www.thevilla.no
300
NOK is the average admission price
for a club concert
in Oslo
Mir
SCHOOL OF CREATIVITY
The Mir cafe-club offers 45 opportunities for creative people in various fields and genres: rehearsal halls, workshops, designer ­studios.
Whether you like to immerse yourself in the Internet or prefer chess
and backgammon, table football or comic strips, the mansion popularly nicknamed the Airport offers everything you need to have
a good time. Artists and painters, musicians and performers from
Norway and abroad love this club for its unique charm and for the
special events it has been hosting now for 20 years.
Toftes gate 69
80
NIGHTLIFE
Sør
MUSIC THE COLOUR OF THE SUN
This cafe in the heart of Oslo is open from dawn till dusk. A warm
atmosphere and friendly barmen are awaiting you in this cosy venue. In the daytime, it is a great place to have lunch, with soups, sandwiches, salads and vegetarian dishes all on offer. At night you can
drop by to have a cocktail and enjoy some good music. Soft sofas,
large standard lamps and book shelves create an atmosphere perfect for a conversation with friends or a romantic date. The salsa
­parties and jam sessions held here on weekends are especially popular in cold Scandinavia.
Torggata 11, www.cafesor.no
Аquevitt is a Norwegian alcoholic beverage from made from
potatoes
81
NIGHTLIFE
Are you having
a Friday beer
with us?
Blir du med på fredagspils?
[ BLIR DU MED POFREDAGSPILS? ]
On a Friday night, central Oslo is a real
melting pot. Crowds celebrate the longawaited weekend in restaurants and cafes,
pub patrons sip their alcoholic beverages
while discussing the latest match as dance
music booms from the miscellaneous clubs.
Oslo refuses to quietly slumber until the
sunrise. Whether you prefer a glass of good
ale in front of a fireplace, or listening to an
opera in an informal environment, you’re
going to remember Friday nights in Oslo for
a long, long time
82
Underwater
OPERA FOR DIVERS
What do an opera singer and a diver have in common? The Underwater pub invites divers and classic music aficionados to its opera evenings every Tuesday and Thursday. Decorated with a ship’s helm and
ropes, the small club is almost lost amidst the estates close to the
city centre. Twice a week, it becomes home to arias performed by
eminent soloists of Norway’s theatres and music academy students.
Winter nights witness wood crackling in the fireplace, candles burning on the tables, an amiable barman winking at the habitues, and
a grateful audience submerged in the world of the classic music
while enjoying cool, foamy beverages.
Dalsbergstien 4, www.underwaterpub.no
83
NIGHTLIFE
60
NOK is the average price of a bottle of beer in an
Oslo bar
The Dubliner
FIREPLACE, CANDLES, JIG AND FOOTBALL
Three hundred years ago, Kvadraturen was a noisy neighbourhood
at the centre of Christiania. Today it is filled with museums, and
only really comes to life when the sound of folk songs on the fiddle
and flute drift out from behind the doors of the Dubliner. The city’s
best Irish pub features wooden benches, a real fireplace and a redfaced barman. It is the epicentre of Saturday festivities and has plenty of visitors on weekdays too. While some drop by to have a pint
and order the grilled salmon, others come to play a game of billiards
or watch the latest Premier League match.
Rådhusgata 28, www.dubliner.no
84
NIGHTLIFE
Lorry
VISITING A TRAVELLER
The famous Lorry pub and restaurant is over a hundred years old.
Its cellars boast over a hundred brands of beer, and the menu is full
of delicious Norwegian snacks. The interior includes artefacts and
curiosities from around the world, including huge stuffed animals
such as a zebra, a giraffe, a deer, a lion, a cheetah, a goose and a boar.
There’s also a dinosaur egg, carved doors from Morocco and China, African, Venetian and French masks, transforming this pub into
a two-storey maze of discovery. In the evening, a mixed crowd recline at tables in the small beer garden and praise the merits of Norwegian brewing, perhaps moving to mark the win of their favourite
team right at the bar.
Parkveien 12, www.lorry.no
Toasts are not customary in Norway,
but when having
a drink, people clink
their glasses and
say Skål! The letter
å sounds like “o”
Tilt
RETRO STYLE LEISURE TIME
Time really flies in this retro-style pub, with shuffleboard tournaments, tasting events, and antique pinball and arcade machines all
on offer to take you back to decades past. In this place a lot of attention is given to selecting beer: the stock of draught and bottled beer
of traditional and unorthodox brands from Norway and other countries gets replenished weekly. Arched ceilings, dimmed lights, retro games, a huge selection of wines, an experienced DJ and a dance
floor: what else could you need for a weekend party?
Torggata 16, www.tiltoslo.no
85
NIGHTLIFE
Skiing
or partying
tonight?
Skal vi stå på ski om kvelden eller feste?
[ SKAL VI STO PO SHI OM KVELDEN ELLER FESTE? ]
Oslo offers a huge variety of night time entertainment all year round. In the winter,
sport-loving Norwegians enjoy skiing and
snowboarding at well-lit facilities within
the city boundaries. Summer nights invite
to romance by the sea: swimming or fishing
in the fjord in the moonlight, yacht parties,
or a romantic picnic date on an island lost
in the bay…
86
Tryvann
NIGHT SKIING ROMANCE
When snow covers the green hills of Oslo, they become a ­paradise
for adrenalin junkies. The Tryvann winter park has 11 ski lifts and
18 tracks with an altitude difference of 381 metres: perfect for downhill skiers or snowboarders to enjoy from early morning until late
at night. It only takes 20 minutes to reach from the city centre
by metro, and anyone can use the artificially-lit pistes late into the
night, irregardless of their skill level. Whether you’re a novice skier or an experienced athlete, the multi-level tracks, cafes and snack
bars will help you forget the stress of the working week and feel the
drive and charm of nighttime skiing.
Tryvannsveien 64, www.oslovinterpark.no
87
NIGHTLIFE
Odd Anders Borgen,
Strategic Leader,
GIA Wholesale Bankingy
SLEDDING IN OSLO
Up for some fast-paced action? The Korketrekkeren —
“The Corkscrew” in Norwegian — is a 2 km toboggan
run with a 255 metre drop.
Here you can rent a sled and
sleigh down to Midtstuen station, a run which should take
less than 10 minutes. Get back
on the metro to go back up to
the top again! You can enjoy sledding all day if you like,
and the run is also lit up in
the evening. It’s great fun and
certainly an alternative way
to experience Oslo!
PB 19, Slemdal,
www.korken.no
2600
km of skiing tracks
can be enjoyed
by winter sport enthusiasts in Oslo
Spikersuppa
SKATING IN CENTRAL OSLO
Many Norwegians love the great outdoors. After a day at the office, families pick up the kids from school and head for the Spikersuppa garden on Karl Johans gate, where a skating rink appears every winter. As the snow quietly falls in the glow of the street lamps,
adults and rosy-cheeked children swirl on the ice in the very centre
of Oslo. After you’ve gained confidence on the small rinks, you can
skate on the frozen lakes of the Norwegian capital or head for the
most popular rink at Frogner Park.
Spikersuppa
88
NIGHTLIFE
9
Oslofjord
NIGHT FISHING AND HUNTING FOR CRABS
The Oslofjord is the perfect place to make a night to remember.
Go for a romantic walk along the embankment, listen to the squalls
of restless gulls, or swim on a wild beach in the moonlight. There’s
always the chance to sleep in a tent under the stars on a small island, to go fishing or to watch the water as it calms under the sunset’s gentle glow… On warm August nights as the school holidays
near the end, locals traditionally take their families to hunt for small
green crabs. You’ll need a scoop net and a torch if you want to join
in yourself.
minutes is the length
of the ferry jounrey
across the fjord from
noisy central Oslo
to the quite green island of Hovedøya
Rådhusbrygge 4
the sEA AT SUNSET
The sun is slowly sinking into the sea, ships are quietly swaying
on the waves, and evening is approaching... Small boats and old
three-mast schooners sail away from the Rådhusbrygge pier in central Oslo for a cruise to the Oslofjord. A jazz band plays, and elegantly dressed people sip wine while tapping out the rhythm. Pop
hits from the 80s play onboard one boat, and the people on the deck
can’t help dancing. The passengers on one small craft sit enthralled
by the fleeting beauty of the sunset, while on the big sailing ship
beyond, the sound of laughter and modern music hangs in the air.
A night by the sea in Oslo truly is an unforgettable experience.
Rådhusbrygge 4
89
NIGHTLIFE
ARE WE GOING
TO A CONCERT
TONIGHT?
Skal vi gå på konsert i kveld?
[ SKAL VI GO PO CONCERT I KVEL? ]
When the harsh Scandinavian sun sets behind the horizon, the crowds head for the
capital’s theatres and concert halls. In Norway, there’s a time for everything: the end
of a week is ideal for theatre and movie premiers, while Christmas is the traditional time to enjoy a performance of the
Nutcracker. Summer is the time for music festivals, featuring everything from rock
to chamber music. Norwegians love and appreciate music and theatre in all its forms.
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CONCERT HALLS AND STADIUMS
MUSIC KALEIDOSCOPE
Oslo has an array of treats in store for both classic and modern music enthusiasts. Check out Oslo Konserthus, where the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra plays, or drop by the Oslo Spektrum for sellout shows from the latest bands and performers. You can tune into
the energy of modern music at the Rockefeller Music Hall or join the
drive and buzz of 25 thousand fellow mucis fans as they gether to see
international stars at the Telenor Arena stadium in Oslo’s suburbs.
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NIGHTLIFE
MUSIC NIGHTS IN MUSEUMS
ART + ART
Plenty of museums in the capital put on music performances for
fans of different genres. In Oslo, you can learn about the history
of artistic masterpieces to the gentle sounds of a violin at the Gustav Vigeland Museum. Visitors can immerse themselves in the mystical world of organ music at Oslo Cathedral, or be amazed by the
military wind band in the old Akershus Castle. For those who want
to relax in the great outdoors, there’s the chance to relax on a lawn
in front of the ruined Cistercian monastery and discover the sound
of medieval instruments.
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NIGHTLIFE
PARK CONCERTS
MUSIC UNDER THE STARS
In the summer, Oslo’s numerous parks host dozens of music festivals, offering shows in genres ranging from blues to experimental
music. Fans of rock and pop music get together in Frogner Park for
the famous Norwegian Wood festival, while lovers of indie, hip hop
and electronic music count the days until the Øya festival, the summer’s major music event. Concerts, improvised music performances
and stunning open air shows are an integral part of the summer holidays in Norway.
OSLO THEATRES
CAPITAL PLAY
Hundreds of art events are held in Oslo. Each and every theatre has
its own personality and its own fans. Many locals love the ­Opera
Theatre in its picturesque spot by the fjord. The design recieved
a prestigious architecture prize, while the interior is decked with
world class equipment. It’s little wonder that place is a mecca for art
enthusiasts, and ballet and opera companies enjoy full houses of eager audiences. The National Theater, the country’s main drama venue is located in the very centre of Oslo. A short distance from the
university, the New Theatre of Oslo puts on popular plays, musicals
and shows for kids and adults.
56
one-hundred-yearold chestnut trees
cast their shadow on Oslo’s longest alley, Bigdøy Allee. It stretches for
6.7 km
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About Nordea
HIGHLIGHTS OF 2015
Nordea is the leading financial services group in Northern
Europe. Nordea operates in eight domestic markets: Sweden,
Norway, Finland, Denmark, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Russia. Nordea is listed on the Stockholm, Helsinki and Copenhagen stock exchanges.
Nordea is one of the 30 G-SIBs (Global Systemically Important Banks) as identified by the Financial Stability Board (FSB),
a global organization created by the G20 at the London Summit in April 2009.
Nordea has 11 million customers and approximately
700 branches.
As of 31 December 2015, Nordea’s total assets amounted
to 646.9 billion euro.
Ratings assigned to Nordea by credit rating agencies
Short
Long
Standard & Poor’s
A–1+
AA–
Fitch Ratings
F1+
AA–
DBRS
R–1 (mid)
AA (low)
Moody’s Investors Service
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P–1
Aa3
Nordea listed among Global Systematically Important Banks again
The Financial Stability Board (created by the G20 countries) and the Basel
Committee on Banking Supervision have published a global list of 30 systematically important banks (G-SIBs). The list includes credit institutions from
the USA (8 banks), Europe (15 banks), China (4 banks) and Japan (3 banks). Nordea was first included into such list in 2012.
Nordea named Bank of the Year in Western Europe and receives
The Banker’s award
Nordea had the honour of winning the prestigious award as Bank of the
Year in Western Europe. It is the second time that Nordea brings home the
first prize — last time was in 2012. Nordea also took the awards of best banks
in Norway, Finland and Denmark. The award “Bank of the Year” is presented
annually by the London-based magazine The Banker owned by the Financial
Times and is the most prestigious banking award in the world with the longest running international banking title.
Best Bank in the Nordic region for the fourth time in a row
Global Finance magazine has announced the winners of its annual “World’s
Best Banks” awards. For the fourth time in a row, Nordea won in the
category of Best Bank in the Nordic region. Nordea also won the country
category Best Bank in Norway, Latvia and Estonia.
Euromoney awards Nordea for best Private Banking
Euromoney has awarded Nordea as the best provider of private banking services in the Nordic region and the Baltics for the eighth year in a row. Nordea
Private Banking has also received the Euromoney country awards for best private banking services in Denmark and Latvia.
JSC NORDEA BANK
The Nordea Group has a 100 percent holding in JSC Nordea
Bank.
The bank has been operating in the Russian financial market
since 1994.
Nordea Bank has about 30 000 individual and 3000 corporate customers including the largest Russian companies
in the leading industries and international companies operating in Russia. The bank is focused on operational excellence,
fast response to change, relationship banking and compliance
with Nordea Group standards.
Nordea Bank ranked among the
top three safest banks in Russia
Nordea Bank is among the 30 largest Russian banks. As of
1 January 2016 the Bank’s regulatory capital (Basel II–III) was
42.32 billion rubles, with total assets of 407.68 billion rubles.
Nordea Bank achieved fantastic financial results in 2015. The
bank’s net profit reached 4.64 billion rubles (up 33.7 percent
year on year). The gains were possible by increasing operating
income and enhanced cost efficiency and control.
HIGHLIGHTS OF 2015
In 2016, we are focusing on promoting long-term relations
with our customers and robust risk management to ensure
these results continue.
Nordea Bank ranked among top-3 safest banks in Russia for the third year
in a row
Ratings assigned to Nordea Bank by Fitch Ratings
Issuer Default Rating (IDR)
Short term rating
Support rating
Sovereign long term rating
Rating
ВВВ-; Outlook Negative
F3
2
ААА (rus); Outlook Stable
Nordea Bank has been placed second in the Forbes’ ranking of the safest
banks in Russia. Banks were assessed on the basis of their ratings from major
international agencies (Fitch, S&P and Moody’s), as well as their equity, assets,
returns, capital ratio and credit risk exposure.
Nordea Bank’s NPL remains record-low
Robust risk management and a conservative approach to lending has ensured
the Bank’s strong cost efficiency and unparalleled 0.66 percent NPL (Non-Performing Loans).
Nordea Bank’s Risk Department awarded by the Association of Russian
Banks (ARB)
The Bank’s Risk Officers received letters of gratitude for their high contribution to the activities of the ARB Committee on Basel II Standards and Risk
Management in 2015 at the annual meeting of the Committee members. The
Committee issued a set of ICAAP recommendations (Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process document consolidating the position of the banking
community). At the beginning of 2016 the recommendations were submitted
to the Central Bank of Russia.
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GUIDE TO OSLO
Created with the contribution of Custom Publishing, ООО Moscow Times, gopublishing.ru
The book is based on the photographs of Getty Images, Legion-Media, Fotoimedia, Diomedia, the materials of press offices Henie Onstad
Kunstsenter, Det Internasjonale Barnekunstmuseet, Norsk Folkemuseu / orten Brun, Tusenfryd, Norsk Teknisk Museum, Popsenteret, Museum
of Cultural History, University of Osl / ina Wallin Hansen, Nasjonalmuseet for kunst, The Kon-Tiki Museum, Nasjonalgalleriet, Cafe Sø / alin Persson,
Underwater Pu / an Leitke, Mathalle / inn Ståle Felberg, Maaem / andar Abdul-Jauwad, Fursetgruppen
www.nordea.ru
JSC Nordea Bank. General License of the Central Bank of the Russian Federation No. 3016