Bryggen in Norway | Tripmondo

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Prosjekt Bryggen
Directorate for Cultural Heritage
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1979
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 5,323°
Latitude: 60,397°

Summary

Bryggen, the old wharf of Bergen, is a reminder of the town’s importance as part of the Hanseatic League’s trading empire from the 14th to the mid-16th century. Many fires, the last in 1955, have ravaged the characteristic wooden houses of Bryggen. Its rebuilding has traditionally followed old patterns and methods, thus leaving its main structure preserved, which is a relic of an ancient wooden urban structure once common in Northern Europe. Today, some 62 buildings remain of this former townscape.

Location on Map

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Introduction

Bryggen, located in the City of Bergen, County of Hordaland, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds immense historical and cultural significance. This iconic wharf area, also known as Tyskebryggen or the German Wharf, is a testament to the rich maritime heritage of Norway and the Hanseatic League. With its well-preserved wooden buildings and vibrant atmosphere, Bryggen continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

History

The history of Bryggen dates back to the 12th century when German merchants established a trading post in Bergen. The Hanseatic League, a powerful trading alliance, played a crucial role in the development of Bryggen as a major trading hub. The League's merchants, primarily from Germany, dominated the area for several centuries, trading fish, grain, and other commodities.

Over the years, Bryggen faced numerous challenges, including fires that ravaged the wooden structures. However, the resilient merchants rebuilt the area each time, resulting in a unique architectural style that blends German and Norwegian influences. The buildings, characterized by their colorful facades and narrow alleyways, reflect the prosperous trading era of the Hanseatic League.

Current State

Today, Bryggen stands as a living heritage site, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The area is home to a vibrant community of artists, craftsmen, and merchants who continue to breathe life into the historic buildings. The wooden structures have been meticulously preserved, and efforts are ongoing to ensure their longevity.

Exploring Bryggen is like stepping back in time. Visitors can wander through the narrow alleyways, known as "smug," and admire the unique architecture. The buildings, with their characteristic gables and wooden beams, house a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants. Here, one can find traditional Norwegian crafts, local artwork, and delicious seafood delicacies.

Bryggen also houses several museums that provide deeper insights into its history. The Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene offer a glimpse into the life of the Hanseatic merchants, showcasing their living quarters, trade practices, and cultural traditions. These museums provide a fascinating educational experience for visitors interested in the history of Bryggen and the Hanseatic League.

Preservation Efforts

Preserving Bryggen's unique heritage is of utmost importance. The wooden structures are vulnerable to fire, decay, and other environmental factors. To ensure their longevity, ongoing preservation efforts are in place. The buildings undergo regular maintenance, and strict regulations govern any renovations or changes to the facades.

UNESCO has played a significant role in safeguarding Bryggen's heritage. The site was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1979, recognizing its outstanding universal value. This designation has helped raise awareness about the importance of preserving Bryggen and has facilitated international cooperation in conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Noorwegen Bergen Bryggen Unesco

Published: December 26, 2008
Length: 02:27 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Harald Hoogie

Mijn bezoek in Bergen Noorwegen in augustus 2007. Bergen is een gemeente in de Noorse provincie Hordaland en tevens de op één na grootste stad van Noorwegen. De gemeente telde 244.620 ...

Bergen. Norwegian Fjords Cruise, June 2013

Published: June 24, 2013
Length: 25:13 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Mogens Hallas

Visit to Bergen, June 6, 2013 at Vision of the Seas Cruise from Copenhagen. Bergen is the second largest city in Norway and the most popular gateway to the fjords of West Norway. The city...

BSC - Bergen Sprint Camp 2013 - Varegg Fleridrett

Published: January 16, 2013
Length: 47:57 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Filmsentralen

Bergen Sprint Camp arrangeres 1. til 3. februar 2013, midt i Bergen sentrum. Påmeldingen er allerede igang i Eventor. I tillegg til kvalitetsøkter, tilbyr vi workshop med fokus på strategi...

Norway's Whaling Industry

Published: August 22, 2014
Length: 37:11 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Rick Steves Europe

As I explored Bergen's old Bryggen trading quarter with my guide, the topic of whales came up. Of course, Norway's whaling industry is controversial among animal-rights groups. With this...

Bergen, Norway Wikipedia travel guide video. Created by http://stupeflix.com

Published: March 25, 2010
Length: 43:49 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: wikistupeflixtravel

Create your own video on http://studio.stupeflix.com/?w=1 ! Panoramic view of Bryggen. View of Bergen from Fløyen. Brick houses built 1901 after a fire at Bryggen. The old stock exchange building...