Norway's Trondheim is considered the "Gateway to the North" and the cradle of national patriotism. Classic wooden townhouses of the 19th century and terraced flats provide for one of the most distinctive towns in Scandinavia. A long-established center of Christian pilgrimage, Trondheim is an urban center of cultural activities filled with historical sights, museums and art galleries.
PAST AND PRESENT
The finest and largest Gothic-style cathedral in Scandinavia, Nidaros Cathedral, built over the grave of St. Olav, has a reputation that goes beyond the Norwegian borders. Nidaros became one of Europe's most important pilgrimage churches. Believers came here to drink from the well that sprang up next to their Patron Saint's grave.
SIGHTS TO SEE
The Ringve Museum, built in 1740, displays a priceless collection of some 2,000 musical instruments from around the world. While the Sverresborg-Trondelag Folk Museum is set amid the ruins of King Sverre's medieval castle. This impressive, open-air museum exhibits the way of life for the people of Trondheim over the centuries.
RIDING THE RAILS
Opened in 1908, the original Thamshavn Railway, was built to carry passengers and ore from the Lokken Mines. The restoration of this railway started a new era in history. Today, people can travel between Lokkenverk and Fannren in exactly the same carriages that were used in 1908.
TROLLEY THROUGH TOWN
The city's Grakall Line Trolley winds through town past picturesque wooden houses and colorful old buildings, and ancient fortifications dating back to the 16th century. As it ascends to the crest of Byasen Hill, there are splendid views of the town, the fertile valleys on the shores of the River Nid, and the majestic fjord that forms the backdrop to it all.