One of Scandinavia’s oldest cities, Trondheim is Norway’s third largest, with a population of 150,000. Founded in 997 by Viking king Olav Tryggvason, it was first named Nidaros (still the name of the cathedral), a composite word referring to the city’s location at the mouth of the Nid River. The city was also the first capital of Norway, from 997 to 1380.
Trondheim became a pilgrimage center because the popularity of King Olaf II Haraldsson (later St. Olaf), who was buried here after being killed in a battle in 1030. Today Trondheim is a university town as well as a center for maritime and medical research, but the wide streets of the historic city center are still lined with brightly painted wood houses and striking warehouses.
Trondheim is Norway’s third biggest city, and one of the oldest cities in Scandinavia. The city has more than a thousand years’ experience in receiving guests. Founded by King Olav Tryggvason of Viking fame in 997, Trondheim holds a special place in Norwegian history and culture. It was the first capital of Norway, and still is the city where kings receive their ceremonial blessing. Situated by the Trondheim Fjord, it is surrounded by lovely forested hills, with the Nidelva river winding through the city. It has been, and still is, a popular pilgrimage site, an ecclesiastical centre, a regional capital, a centre for commerce and administration – and, last but not least, a city of education and research.
The boat trip to historical Munkholmen is a good opportunity to view Trondheim from the seaward side, while the view from Tyholt tower (400ft/120m) gives you an exquisite panorama of the city and its surroundings.
There is even the opportunity to watch skijumping in mid-summer on a state-of-the-art ski jump, complete with ceramic tiles and PVC grass.
Other attractions are: the Archbishop’s Palace – the oldest secular building in Scandinavia; the Royal Residence – Scandinavia’s largest timber mansion; Ravnkloa – the city’s fish market; the old town bridge – first built on this site in 1681; the National Museum of Applied Art and Craft and the Maritime Museum.
Choose between a rich variety of historical sights, museums and art galleries – and look forward to an unforgettable experience.
The modern cruise ship quay and passenger terminal are situated close to the city centre, giving easy access for passengers to the sights of the city. As an entrance and starting point of Arctic cruises, the area of Trondheim co-operates with northern ports of call, the Airport Authority and Tourist Boards, in order to attract cruise vessels to this scenic part of Europe. The Port Authority can also assist with itineraries, local knowledge of the area and suggestions for tours and cultural programmes. Trondheim’s position as both the northern terminus of Norway’s Fjord Country and the entry to North Norway and the Arctic, emphasises its importance as a cruise call, says Wollert Krohn-Hansen, Trondheim Port Authority.
Avid Cruiser Posts, Photographs and Videos Featuring Trondheim.
