Today our focus was on Bergen, especially the historic part, Bryggen. It is a UNESCO world heritage site. Bryggen, the historic harbour district in Bergen, is one of North Europe’s oldest port cities on the west coast of Norway, What are now trendy stores were once warehouses. German merchants of the Hanseatic League were seafarers who banded together to become middlemen in trade across northern Europe from 1250 to 1750. The city was one of four major trading centers (also London, Bruges and Novgorad). Their export was fish, especially cod.
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| the coat of arms combining German eagle and fish of Bergen |
The buildings on the waterfront.
Symbols on the front made it easy for ships to locate their specific warehouse.
Behind the buildings was a German enclave in Bergen where the merchants lived, etc.
There are narrow alleyways.
Looking back from across the harbor.
Out hotel is at the far left of the picture.
Walking around Bergen took us to other sites.
St. Mary's church, dating to the 12th century, is Bergen's oldest preserved building.
In the 13th century Bergen became Norway's first capital. The Bergenhus Fortress, built in 1240, was a garrison. Rosenkrantz Tower was the king's residence; Håkon's Hall was for banquets.
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| Dome on Rosenkrantz Tower (tower in scaffolding)
Håkon's Hall
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| Seaman's Monument |
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| the Funicular track |
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| St John's Church |
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| Bergen Cathedral |
Late morning we drove to Troldhaugen, the home of Edvard Grieg (1843 - 1907). We got to see his home, where he composed and we were treated to a piano concert featuring his music.
His inspiring views
Nice museum and cafe
Lots of beautiful flowers in and around Bergen
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