Beyond The Facades Of Bryggen, The Historic Heart Of Bergen, Norway

Several hundred years ago, German-speaking traders would arrive in Bergen with boatloads of grain, cloth, and other vital commodities. They would stay for a few days in the wooden warehouses that line the harbor, before stocking their boats with dried fish from Lofoten and heading back to Europe.

Today, the trading houses of the Hanseatic League remain, but they are home to eclectic shops, vibrant galleries, and quaint cafés.

These colorful wooden buildings, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continue to tell stories of a time when Bergen was a bustling center of trade under the Hanseatic League’s influence.

As visitors wander through the narrow alleyways, they are transported back to medieval times through the distinctive architecture and the creaking sounds of the wooden planks underfoot.

The area is not just a relic of the past but a lively part of the modern city. A visit to Bryggen is one of the top things to do in Bergen.

Although the Hanseatic Museum is the best place to learn Bryggen’s story, it is closed for a long-term refurbishment. In the meantime, there’s still plenty of places to visit to get the most out of your trip.

Explore Every Alleyway

Start your visit with a stroll through the narrow alleyways that run between some of the buildings. This is where you’ll discover more details of the wooden architecture.

Each alleyway emerges into open courtyards that offer a peek into the bustling life of the historical traders.

While exploring, you will also stumble upon small cafes and boutique shops tucked away in these historic corridors. Here, you can savor a cup of locally roasted coffee or find unique handcrafted gifts to take home.

Today, Bryggen is home to numerous small, artisan boutiques and workshops. From traditional Norwegian knits to contemporary art, these shops offer unique souvenirs crafted by local artisans. It’s a great place to pick up something unique and support local creators.

The atmosphere in Bryggen is enriched during the warmer months when the courtyards and alleyways come alive with outdoor seating, cultural performances, and art exhibitions.

These gatherings are a modern continuation of the community’s vibrant social life, reminiscent of the historic assemblies that took place in these very spots centuries ago.

See The Assembly Rooms

Known as Schøtstuene in Norwegian, the Assembly Rooms provide a glimpse into the communal life of the Hanseatic merchants. They gathered here for food and entertainment, particularly during the colder, winter months.

These buildings are characterized by their simple yet robust wooden architecture, designed to withstand Bergen’s damp climate. Inside, visitors can explore the large open fireplaces and original artifacts, offering insights into the social dynamics of the era.

Although the Hanseatic Museum itself is temporarily closed, the museum continues to run guided tours of Bryggen starting at the Assembly Rooms. Tours are included in the ticket price.

Bryggens Museum

Ironically, a fire that destroyed much of Bryggen in the 1950s ended up saving the district. Prior to the fire, the rundown area was popularly known as ‘the rat’s nest’.

The fire triggered archaeological digs, which revealed significant finds that reawakened interest in the district and the history of the city.

Today, Bryggens Museum stands over the remains of an early settlement at Bryggen, showcasing some of the archaeological finds. In the museum, visitors will learn more about the fires, the rebuilding, and the story of the medieval trade routes that drove the growth of Bergen.

Learn About The Renovation Process

Bryggen’s iconic wooden structures, originally built in the 14th century, have been rebuilt multiple times following fires but still retain their ancient charm. Much of this is due to the careful renovation work, conducted using traditional materials, tools, and techniques.

Bryggen is still under threat, with rotting foundations the latest problem. This is the reason for the ongoing restoration work, in particular on the Hanseatic Museum building.

Information boards around the site detail the renovation work going on at any particular time, while windows allow visitors to see progress.

The Story Of War Resistance

If your visit to Bergen falls on a weekend in the summer, call in to the Theta Museum for a unique perspective on the Second World War.

This tiny, one-room museum inside one of the old Bryggen buildings was used as a resistance base during the war, and the guided tour will reveal its secrets. It’s open for just a few hours on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, between June and August.

Dine In Historic Surroundings

Dining in Bryggen is an experience in itself. Many restaurants and cafes here are housed in buildings dating back several centuries. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes, traditional Norwegian cuisine, and international flavors with a historic backdrop.

For fish and seafood, look no further than the highly-rated Enhjørningen. Named after a Unicorn (and easy to spot thanks to the unicorn sculpture on the front of the building), the restaurant presents the bounty of the ocean in traditional surroundings.

Expect catfish, monkfish, halibut, and a classic Norwegian fish soup on the menu. Booking ahead is essential.