Awaiting Your Return From Shore |
Oslo has been
Norway’s capital since 1299; today it is the nation’s largest city. Located
at the end of the Oslofjord, Oslo is encircled by wooded hills and
snowcapped peaks. Through its 900-year history, the city suffered many
fires, with an especially devastating one in 1624. As a result, Oslo
displays a mixture of several architectural styles.
According to the historians, the city was founded in 1050 by Harold III.
During the 14th century, Oslo came under the strong, productive influence of
the Hanseatic League, a cooperative of merchants representing some 70
northern European cities. Merchants were allowed free trade between member
cities and they came to each other’s defense if attacked. The city’s modern
development dates back to the last century. Today Oslo is prosperous and
exemplary for its tidiness and services.
Norway is first and foremost a maritime nation; Oslo is the chief port for
sea services to and from the European Continent and England. The majority of
the approximately half-million population lives along the coast and on the
hundreds of nearby islands.
There the weather is comparatively temperate, due to the Gulfstream.
Visitors to Oslo will find a full range of activities among the numerous art
galleries, museums, restaurants, theaters and nightclubs. Other points of
interest include the Royal Palace; Frogner Park, known for its famous
Vigeland sculptures; Holmenkollen, where international skiing events take
place; the imposing Åkershus Castle; and Bygdøy Peninsula, home to some of
Oslo’s most important museums.
Oslo’s city center is fairly compact. Many of its attractions can be
explored on foot; the Bygdøy Peninsula can easily be reached via ferry boats
departing from the harbor. |
Awaiting Your Return
From Shore |
Complimentary
Spirits Await |
Return to Your
Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure |
Entertainment
and Dancing Await You |