Audio Guide: Trondheim Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Trondheim

Trondheim was Norway’s first capital and remains the place where Norwegian monarchs are consecrated. Idyllically located on the River Nidelva, with easy access to the sea, it has been home to saints, warriors, kings, merchants, and pilgrims. The name Trondheim is usually understood as “the home of the Trønder people,” referring to the historic region and its inhabitants.

Olav Tryggvason, better known as Olav I, founded the city in 997. He called it Kaupangen, meaning “trading place”. Although Olav ruled for only a few years, he established what became Norway’s capital during the Viking Age and medieval period, a role Trondheim held until 1217.

The city has been ravaged by fires several times in its history, while conflicts with Sweden also left their mark. After the devastating fire of 1681, Trondheim was largely rebuilt according to a new Baroque city plan designed by Major General Johan Caspar de Cicignon, a military engineer originally from Luxembourg. His broad streets and orderly layout still shape the city center today.

The old city center is easy to explore on foot. The Town Square features Olav I’s statue, erected in 1921 and designed by Wilhelm Rasmussen, standing atop a tall column overlooking the square. Nearby is Nidaros Cathedral, built over the traditional burial place of Saint Olav, King Olav II, and long associated with royal coronations and consecrations. Beside it, the Archbishop’s Palace contains archaeological displays and the Norwegian Crown Regalia.

A short walk from the cathedral leads to Bakklandet, a charming district of colorful wooden houses, narrow streets, cafés, and riverside views. The Old Town Bridge offers one of Trondheim’s most familiar scenes, and beyond it lies the route toward Kristiansten Fortress. Our Lady’s Church, or Vår Frue Kirke, dates back to around 1200 and has been damaged, altered, and restored many times. Beyond the churches, Trondheim offers museums, including the Maritime Museum, as well as shopping, hiking, skiing in season, summer festivals, and celebrations connected with Saint Olav.

Trondheim began as a good place to trade and grew into a good home more than a thousand years ago. It still feels that way today.