More than 600 miles north of the Arctic Circle, the world’s northernmost town is one of the most widely visited and oldest places in northern Norway. “Hammerfest” means “mooring place” and refers to the natural harbor (remarkably ice free year-round thanks to the Gulf Stream) formed by the crags in the mountain.
Hammerfest is the gateway to the Barents Sea and the Arctic Ocean, a jumping off point for expeditions. Once an Arctic hunting town, Hammerfest’s town emblem features the Polar Bar. In 1891 the residents of Hammerfest tired of the months-long night that winter always brought, decided to brighten their nights. They purchased a generator from Thomas Edison, and Hammerfest thus became the first city in Europe to have electric street lamps.
The world’s northernmost town Hammerfest has approximately 10,000 inhabitants, and the principal industries are fishing, trade and the travel industry. The town, however, is developing fast in the direction of the oil and gas industries, thanks to findings of oil and the production of gas not far from Hammerfest.
The harbour is totally ice-free in winter because of the Gulf Stream passing in this area. Hammerfest is the gate to the Barents Sea, and the perfect base for combining coastal and inland adventures. Because of its geographical position, Hammerfest had an intimate relationship with arctic hunting and fishing for hundreds of years. The Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society has as its main aim to preserve this history and tradition. Exclusive membership including certificate and a silver polar bear pin is offered to those who visit the Society.
The Museum of Reconstruction has the task to document, preserve and study the history of forced evacuation and total destruction during World War II and the rebuilding and reconstruction after the war.
On top of mountain Salen, right above the town centre, Mikkelgammen is situated. This is a traditional Sami turf hut, where you can experience the history, culture and life of the Sami people, and also taste traditional Sami food. By the harbour you will find the marketplace with various products, local and Sami handicrafts, Norwegian knitwear and local food specialities.
Every summer in the middle of July we celebrate the Hammerfest days with different activities. Don’t miss the Meridian Column. This monument was erected in 1854 in memory of the first international measurement of the Earth’s circumference. This scientific collaboration between Russia, Sweden and Norway was completed in Hammerfest in 1852. The Column is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The column is located at Fuglenes.
The destination company, Hammerfest Turist AS can offer guide services in many languages, and regular or extended sightseeing with professional guides.
Welcome to the world’s northernmost town.
Avid Cruiser Posts, Photographs and Videos Featuring Hammerfest.
