Bakklandet, Trondheim (must see)

Bakklandet is sometimes described as "Old Trondheim," although the nickname is more romantic than historical. One of the city's oldest neighborhoods, it occupies the eastern bank of the River Nidelva. Today, Bakklandet is one of the city's most charming districts, but it began as a busy commercial settlement rather than a picturesque residential neighborhood.

Originally lying outside the medieval town, Bakklandet began to develop in the early 17th century as Trondheim expanded across the river. Its location made it ideal for merchants, craftsmen, and dockworkers, and it soon became the city's first suburb. During the Swedish occupation of Trondheim in 1658, much of the neighborhood was destroyed by fire.

The construction of the Old Town Bridge in 1681 permanently linked Bakklandet with the city center and Kristiansten Fortress. The new crossing encouraged trade and development, while warehouses and wharves lined the riverbanks. Although fire remained a constant danger, commerce flourished as merchants established riverside storehouses and loading piers.

War returned in 1718 when Swedish forces under General Carl Gustaf Armfeldt advanced on Trondheim. To deny the enemy shelter, Norwegian defenders deliberately burned much of Bakklandet before the attack. Once the danger had passed, the neighborhood was rebuilt yet again, and by the late 18th century its streets had been improved and commercial life had fully resumed.

Today, Bakklandet is known for its narrow cobbled streets, colorful wooden houses, cafés, and small independent shops. Along the river, historic warehouses still stand on timber piles driven into the riverbed, recalling the district's trading past.