The Bryggen waterfront is located in the city of Bergen, on the western side of Norway. It’s a lively area where you can stroll along the water’s edge while enjoying fantastic views of colourful historical buildings and beautiful ships. Stroll through a great variety of shops, interesting museums and fantastic places to eat.
The first houses ever built in the city were located near the water in Bryggen. Over the years the area has suffered many fires, some of them with devastating results. In 1702 a huge fire reduced many of the buildings to ashes, as most of the homes were made of wood. In 1955, when another similar tragedy occurred, large parts of the neighbourhood were destroyed by the flames. Appreciate the efforts made after each disaster to rebuild Bryggen using the original foundations when possible and maintaining the traditional charm of the houses. Today Bryggen is one of Bergen’s most significant historical areas and a UNESCO site since 1979.
In the 14th century the Hanseatic League established a kontor (foreign trading post) in Bryggen. This league, also known as Hanse, was a powerful association of merchants created to protect their interests in different countries. Walk along the Bryggen waterfront to see the famous wooden Hanseatic commercial buildings and the old wharf. Discover a historic neighbourhood that was once the key centre of Hanseatic businesses in Norway.
While you are visiting the Bryggen waterfront make sure you also explore its charming narrow streets and alleys, which will make you feel like you have traveled back in time. After the great fire in 1955, a huge archaeological excavation in the area began, unearthing many valuable objects from a medieval city. Visit the Bryggens Museum to admire these amazing discoveries and to learn more about everyday life in a medieval metropolis.
Find plenty of pubs and restaurants with numerous options for food and drink. Stop at the many interesting shops to buy lovely traditional crafts and wander along the Bryggen waterfront to take spectacular panoramic photographs.
