Located at the northern end of Torgallmenningen, in the main square of the city of Bergen, Norway, is the 7-metre-high Sailors Monument. The monument is a tribute to the country's maritime heritage, and honours the contributions of Norwegian sailors throughout the ages, recognizing their vital role in the nation's history and development. The cuboid-shaped monument was designed by the sculptor Dyre Vaa and was unveiled to the public on 7th June 1950.
Visit the monument to take a look at its 12 statues and four reliefs. Look out for plaques and informational signs placed around the monument to learn some fascinating tales and history of the accomplishments of Norwegian sailors through the ages. Join one of the walking tours of Bergen that includes this monument to learn more about its significance. This attraction offers both an artistic and historical reflection on Norway’s enduring relationship with the sea.
Highlights
• Visit the main square of the city of Bergen to take a look at the Sailor’s Monument which pays tribute to Norway’s maritime heritage.
• Take a look at the 12 bronze statues and the four reliefs which are placed on the four sides of the monument.
• Learn the significance of four statues on each side of the monument, facing four directions.
• Know the maritime history and fascinating stories of the seamen by reading the plaques and information signs.
• Opt for going on a walking tour covering this attraction to know more about it from a knowledgeable guide.
How To Reach
- By Car: The Sailor's Monument is 950.0 m from the city centre, it will take 5 min via the Strandkaien route.
- By Foot: If you travel by foot to Sailors Monument from the city centre, you will need to walk for 4 min to cover a distance of 290.0 m via the Torgallmenningen and Vaskerelven route.
- By Bus: Take a bus to Torgallmenningen station which is 28 m away from the monument. You can reach the location from the bus station within a 22-second walk.
- By Train: Take a train to Bergen Station which is 700 m away from the monument. You can reach the location from the train station with a 9-minute walk.
- By Boat: Take a ferry to Bergen Harbour which is 600 m away and walk for 9 minutes to reach the monument.
Best Time To Visit
The Sailor's Monument is an outdoor attraction and can be visited at any time of the year.
- Best season: The best season to visit Sailors Monument is during the spring months from May to June and the fall months from September to October when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activity.
- Best day of the week: The best day of the week to visit the monument is during weekdays from Mondays to Fridays when the crowd is lesser compared to weekends.
- Best time of day: The best time of the day to visit the monument is in the early morning when there is a lesser number of people and the early morning light is excellent for taking photographs.
Other Essential Information
Visitors Tips:
- You may consider joining a walking tour of Bergen which includes Sailors Monument, if you wish to know the fascinating stories and maritime history which is depicted in the monument.
- Visit in the evening to see the monument well-lit and enjoy a night-time photography opportunity.
- The monument and its surrounding area are accessible to people with mobility challenges.
- To learn more about the monument and its sculptures, you may read the plaques and informational signs that are placed around it.