The cover of the May issue of Viking magazine features a stunning image of one of Norway’s most awe-inspiring monuments—Sverd i fjell (Swords in Rock). Read our story to find out the meaning behind these giant bronze swords. Here, we rounded up some of Norway’s most magnificent monuments to add to your bucket list.
The Globe
At the northernmost point in Europe stands The Globe. Located over a cliff edge in North Cape, the sculpture has become a symbol for the area. Used as an orientation point for sailors, the cliffside offers views of the Arctic Ocean and, if you’re lucky, orcas.
Minnehallen
The Hall of Remembrance, located in Larvik, serves as a national monument to Norwegian sailors who passed away in World War I and II. The pyramid-shaped building contains copper tablets showing the lives of the sailors, sculptures, and a poem by famed Norwegian poet Herman Wildenvey dedicated to the sailors.
Havmannen Statue
Just off the coast of Mo i Rana stands Havmannen, or “The Man from the Sea.” Weighing in at 60 tons, the granite sculpture stands knee-deep in the waterfront, facing away from the city. While the creation of the sculpture was met with some controversy, the town now sees it as its ambassador and were inspired to create the annual festival Havmanndagene (Havmann days).
Solspeilet
Visit Norway’s own Stonehenge, Solspeilet, on the islet of Klungholmen. Twelve standing stones encircle a steel obelisk covered with symbols and ornaments—some originally from the Oseberg Viking ship. Visible from Norwegian Scenic Routes and hiking trails, it’s easy to add the monument to your itinerary.
Sverd i fjell
Located on the shores of Hafrsfjord, just south of Stavanger, this monument is comprised of three enormous bronze swords (standing 10 meters tall!) designed by Norwegian artist Fritz Røed. It commemorates the Battle of Hafrsfjord in 872, where King Harald Fairhair the warrior brought Norway into a single nation.
The Globe. Photo Credit: Knut Hansvold
Minnehallen. Photo Credit: Torstein Frogner, via Wikimedia Commons
Havmannen Statue. Photo Credit: Uwe Dörnbrack
Solspeilet. Photo Credit: STIAN H. SKJÆVELAND
Sverd i fjell. Photo Credit: Knut Arne Gjertsen