Trondenes Historical Centre, Harstad, Norway
Serving as the museum of the parish of Trondenes in the town of Harstad, Norway, Trondenes Historical Centre is home to over 2,000 years of history. It preserves several interesting pieces and artifacts not only from Trondenes but also in the surrounding areas. The historical center takes visitors on a journey to the past, from the settlement of the early Vikings to the Nazi German occupation in the 1940's. With over 20,000 square feet of floor area, the museum building features permanent exhibitions, mainly focusing on the medieval period. It was inaugurated back in May 1997 and remained one of the iconic landmarks of the town.
From the Trondenes Historical Center, make sure to visit the Battery Theo at Trondenes Fort, sitting roughly four miles from the city center of Harstad. This battery features four Adolfkanone, a German naval gun dating back to the 1930's. Within a five-minute drive from the battery, you will reach the Trondenes Church, known as the northernmost medieval stone church of the country. It is also dubbed as the northernmost surviving medieval structure across the globe. This parish church sits on the north edge of the town and is believed to have been built around the mid-1430's. You can also arrange to visit other attractions in the area with Clarion Collection Hotel Arcticus. This four-star accommodation in the city center offers tour and ticket assistance to guests. The Thon Hotel Harstad is also situated in the city center and serves a free buffet breakfast in their on-site restaurant and bar.