The Vigeland Park in Oslo is one of the most famous parks in Norway. Since the park was opened to the public, it has consistently been one of the major draws for tourists.
Location
The park is in Frogner Park at Frogner borough in Oslo. To get there, board the trolley line 12 from Aker Brygge. This will take you to the main gate of the park. Alternatively, you can take bus 20 going to Galgeberg/Skøyen or the T-bane (underground) to Majorstuen. If you are at Karl Johan Street, the park is 20 minutes away on foot.
What to See
The park has over 200 sculptures by the master sculptor Gustav Vigeland. 58 of the sculptures in the park are found by the Bridge, one of the first areas to be opened to the public. The Bridge itself is a spectacle as it is 15 meters (49 ft) wide and 100 meters (328 ft) long. The Bridge is between the Fountain and Main Gate. The statues are all bronze.
One of the most popular is the Angry Boy. Another is the Children’s Playground at the end of the Bridge. The Vigeland Park in Oslo also has 60 bronze reliefs.
The Monolith Plateau consists of a platform where the Monolith is located. There are 36 figure groups on it, signifying life. It is the park’s biggest attraction.
History
The park began in the 18th century when Hans Jacop Scheel creaed a small garden. Following his death, the garden was expanded by other individuals, beginning with Bernt Anker. It was Anker who brought in Frogner Manor.
The park would be sold to private owners until the City of Oslo purchased it in 1896. In 1900, the place was converted into a recreational park. It was in 1924 when the Gustav Vigeland fountain was built there.
Cost
Entrance to the park is free.
Other Info
The Fountain sculpture shows skeletons and children embraced by trees. It signifies that from death emerges life. The park’s Main Gate is composed of granite and wrought iron.
Other attractions in the park include the Wheel of Life to the park’s west and many other sculptures. Some are wrestling, running and dancing. Other figures are more enigmatic, as the one of a man fighting off several babies.
The Vigeland Park in Oslo is open 24 hours a day. if you are dropping by, make sure to check out its affiliate museums: Vigeland Museum and Oslo City Museum.
