Bergen Aquarium, Bergen

Bergen Aquarium, located on the Nordnes peninsula in Bergen, is a public aquarium and a key tourist attraction in the region. Since its inauguration on August 27, 1960, the facility has held the title of the largest and most modern aquarium in Northern Europe. Designed by architect Hans Chr. Gaaserud and Helge Simers in 1952, the aquarium features a sleek and functional design, complemented by interior work from Gunnar Rollefsen. In 1995, the complex expanded to include a movie theater.

The aquarium is renowned for its extensive collection, housing more than 300 species across over 60 tanks filled with fish, marine invertebrates, and a variety of other sea creatures. Additionally, it boasts three outdoor ponds that are home to seals, penguins, and cyprinids, and a tropical section featuring reptiles and monkeys. The recent additions of sea otters Gizmo and Bella have brought new life and excitement to the facility, especially noted for their playful antics.

Bergen Aquarium serves a dual purpose of entertainment and education, aiming to teach visitors about animal welfare, conservation, and biodiversity. It showcases creatures from diverse environments including shoreline habitats, deep-sea regions, Arctic waters, and tropical rainforests. This wide array of ecosystems provides visitors with a comprehensive view of global biodiversity.

For both children and adults, the aquarium offers a dynamic experience with regular events such as sea lion training, penguin feeding, and guided tours, all designed to enhance interaction with the animals. These activities are available in both Norwegian and English, ensuring accessibility for international visitors.