The history of the city can be traced back over 1,000 years. Oslo was founded in 1048, by the king Harald Hardråde. The city became capital of Norway around 1300, but lost its privileges during the Danish-Norwegian union from 1348 to 1814. In 1624, a fire devastated old Oslo, and the city was moved some kilometres west to gain protection from the fortress at Akershus. The city was renamed Christiania, after the Danish King Christian IV, a name that remained until it was officially renamed on January 1st 1925 to Oslo. Traces have been found close to Ekeberg indicating settlement as far back as 10,000 BC.
After the devastating 1624 fire, old Oslo (around the mouth of river Aker) was largely abandoned and the ruins converted to farmland. Today, a few church ruins are still visible under the Ekeberg hill (across the water from the new operahouse, between road E18 and the railway). Beyond these ruins there is virtually nothing remaining of medieval Oslo. Ironically, the new city Christiania was established outside the borders of Oslo, and 'Oslo' remained the name of the small, surviving settlement outside the new city borders. During Christiania's rapid expansion in the 19th century, as the capital of a new state, the site of the original Oslo (old Oslo, or 'Gamlebyen') was included in the city. Due to the rapid inclusion of surrounding agricultural areas in the 19th century, a large number of remains from the city's farming history is still clearly visible in place names and farm houses. The remains of historical pastures can be found at parks, St. Hanshaugen for example is now used as a recreational park for Oslo's residents.
Oslo, the capital of Norway, has a rich and fascinating history that stretches back over a thousand years. The city’s name is believed to come from Old Norse, with “Oslo” possibly meaning "the meadow at the foot of the hill" or “the mouth of the river.” It was originally founded around 1040, during the Viking Age, by King Harald Hardrada.
In the early centuries, Oslo was a key trading hub and played an important role in Norway’s development. It officially became the capital of Norway in the 1300s, under King Haakon V, as part of the union with Denmark. However, the city’s growth was hindered for centuries by fires, plagues, and political instability.
In 1624, after a devastating fire, Oslo was rebuilt by King Christian IV of Denmark-Norway. He renamed the city Christiania (later spelled Kristiania) in his own honor. The name Oslo was restored in 1925, symbolizing the city’s return to its Viking roots.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Oslo expanded rapidly, becoming a major political, economic, and cultural center in Norway. Today, Oslo is known for its blend of modernity and historical landmarks, from the Akershus Fortress to the Viking Ship Museum, alongside its green spaces and stunning fjord views. This rich history, combined with its commitment to sustainability and culture, makes Oslo a fascinating and vibrant destination.
