Kongsberg was founded by King Christian IV in 1624 as there were large deposits of silver in the area. The Kongsberg silver works have played an important role in Norwegian history, but have long since closed down and been turned into a fascinating museum. Today the town is also well-known for its international jazz festival, which attracts artists and audiences from around the world.
Kongsberg is a city committed to preserving its traditions and this is particularly evident during the winter event, Kongsberg Marken (Kongsberg Market), which has taken place every year since 1633. The market lets you experience some of the best Norwegian food and handcrafts, plus skiing, concerts, kappleik and numerous other activities for both big and small.
Kongsberg Kirke (Kongsberg Church), which was inaugurated in 1761, is also well worth visiting. The largest rococo church in Norway has a simple exterior but is very ornate inside. The beautiful glass chandeliers are among the largest in Scandinavia and are so valuable that they were hidden in the silver mines during World War II. In the church you will also the Gloger Organ from 1765. This organ is the largest preserved baroque instrument north of Hamburg and has given its name to the annual Chamber Music Festival, Glogerfestspillene (Gloger Music Festival).
Music is generally important in Kongsberg and at the end of June/beginning of July every year, Kongsberg is turned upside down during the Kongsberg Jazzfestival (Kongsberg Jazz Festival). The festival is an arena for exciting and innovative music but also showcases top international artists, traditional jazz and more popular music, as well as a special “Barnival” for the little ones.
In nearby Kongsberg Church, you will find the Norsk bergverksmuseum (Norwegian Mining Museum), which has five departments with exhibits where you can learn more about the ancient silver works in the city and the mint, Den Kongelige Mynt (The Royal Mint). It is also recommended that you go on a guided tour of the silver mines, where you will be transported 343 metres below the surface and 2,300 metres into the mountain by train, before continuing on foot.
There is a wide range of accommodation options in Kongsberg, from large hotels to simple backpackers and huts, so here you can find something to suit every taste. The city is located approximately one hour outside of Oslo and can be reached by train and bus, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
