In Norway, we visited the capital, Oslo, located next to the fjord. We found it to be overly expensive (we saw a menu with a $30 quesadilla/taco combo!), but we learned about how important the water has been to this culture. From vikings to polar explorers, much of the Norwegian history has been shaped by its relationship with the surrounding waters. We also saw some unique statues in a park dedicated to the work of a famous Norwegian sculptor, and we visited a local craft market in the former warehouse district.
On the waterfront
The Viking Museum
The Viking Museum is home to three viking boats used for burials in the water. In addition to the three boats, it contains artifacts of they gifts they would leave inside the burial boats. The detailed hand carving and decoration is astounding.
The Fram Museum
The Fram Museum is all about Norwegian scientific explorers who went to both the north and south poles. It includes two of the actual boats used for these explorations.
Vigeland Sculpture Park
Oslo’s Vigeland Park was on all the “what you should see” lists, including a recommendation by the local market cashier. It has over 200 pieces by Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. The sculptures are all of people — and show many different types of relationships. Some are wrestling each other, others embracing, and many of the statues are just perplexing. But it was interesting to say the least.
Near our apartment
