Floating sauna in Bjørvika. Photo: Asgeir Behrentz
The city by the fjord Exciting things are happening in the Norwegian capital. It’s as if a new city is rising from the fjord. By Lisa Maria Berg | Photos: VisitOSLO
Oslo’s closeness to nature is a rare treat. To be able to take a hike in the forest or go paddling after a museum visit is amazing, not to mention neighbourhoods that let you combine tasty meals and park life, and the possibility of cruising on a bike through green alleyways on your way to an evening concert. Over the course of the last decade, Oslo’s ties to its green surroundings have grown even stronger. A harbour previously dominated by cars and containers has been reimagined and rebuilt, not only clearing the view, but making the Oslo fjord a part of the city’s very identity. 92 | Issue 134 | March 2020
Transforming a waterfront It started with the new Oslo Opera House, which opened in 2008. Resembling an iceberg rising out of the water, it made a remarkable statement in the otherwise run-down dock area of Bjørvika. The Oslo Opera House roof, open to anyone to walk on, soon became a world-famous icon: an urban interpretation of Norway’s freedom to roam. Along the entire harbour, shipyards, ports and highways gave way to museums, public parks and comfy benches. More landmarks grew up from the fjord,
Oslo Fjord Sauna in front of the new Munch Museum. Photo: Becky Zeller