The Royal Palace
Oslo
The Royal Palace in Oslo, known locally as Det kongelige slott, serves as the official residence of the Norwegian monarch. Constructed in the first half of the 19th century, it was commissioned by King Charles XIV John, originally Charles John of Bernadotte, who ruled Norway and Sweden. The palace is situated at the end of Oslo's main street, Karl Johans gate, and is enveloped by the scenic Palace Park and the formal Palace Square. Designed by Danish-born architect Hans Linstow, the building was completed in 1849, showcasing neoclassical architecture with three main wings and a stately façade featuring a central colonnade supported by Ionic columns. The palace includes its own chapel, consecrated in 1844, which serves as a venue for royal ceremonies and concerts. Throughout its history, the palace has been the residence of various members of the Bernadotte dynasty and later the House of Glücksburg, with King Haakon VII becoming the first monarch to reside permanently after Norway's independence in 1905. The palace is a working royal residence and hosts weekly meetings of the Council of State in the Council Chamber. It is partially open to the public during summer months, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and elegant interiors. The surrounding Palace Park offers a tranquil setting in the heart of Oslo, making the Royal Palace a significant cultural and historical symbol of Norway.
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Tipp: Visit the Royal Palace during the summer months when parts of the palace are open to the public. Consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues. The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn when the Palace Park is in full bloom. On Norwegian Constitution Day (May 17), enjoy the traditional children's parade and royal balcony greeting. Guided tours provide valuable insights into the palace's history and architecture. Check the official website for opening hours and special events. Discounts may be available for students and seniors.
Interessante Fakten
- •King Charles XIV John laid the foundation stone himself on October 1, 1825, beneath the future palace chapel's altar.
- •The palace chapel, consecrated in 1844, hosts royal baptisms, confirmations, and chamber music concerts.
- •The central colonnade on the main façade was originally removed for budget reasons but reinstated before the palace's official inauguration in 1849.
- •King Haakon VII introduced the tradition of weekly meetings with the Council of State held in the palace's Council Chamber.
- •During the German occupation in World War II, the palace served as the office for Vidkun Quisling and his government.
- •The Palace Park surrounding the palace was designed with a circular flowerbed proposed by the palace gardener in 1848 and includes a statue of King Charles John by Brynjulf Bergslien, erected in 1875.
Geschichte
The Royal Palace was commissioned in 1821 by King Charles XIV John as a permanent residence for the Norwegian monarchy.
Construction began in 1824 under architect Hans Linstow but faced interruptions due to budget overruns and political disputes, delaying completion until 1849.
Initially, the palace was used occasionally by the Bernadotte kings, who spent much time in Stockholm.
After Norway's independence in 1905, King Haakon VII became the first monarch to reside there permanently, prompting renovations and the establishment of royal traditions such as the weekly Council of State meetings.
During World War II, the palace was used by the Quisling government under German occupation.
Since then, it has undergone various refurbishments and remains a central symbol of the Norwegian monarchy.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
Palace Facade and Colonnade1849
The grand neoclassical façade features a central colonnade supported by six Ionic columns, reinstated before the palace's 1849 inauguration to enhance its stately appearance.
Royal Palace Chapel1844
Consecrated in 1844, the chapel is located within the palace and is used for royal ceremonies such as baptisms and confirmations, as well as concerts of church and chamber music.
Council Chamber1905 (tradition)
This chamber hosts the weekly meetings of the Norwegian Council of State, a tradition started by King Haakon VII in 1905. It contains the monarch's throne and is a symbol of the constitutional monarchy.
Palace Park (Slottsparken)1848 (park design)
The palace is surrounded by a large, beautifully landscaped park featuring a circular flowerbed designed in 1848 and several statues, including the equestrian statue of King Charles John.
Kontakt
Telefon: 22 04 87 00
