Gingerbread city, and 9 other fun facts about Norway

1. Norwegians have no word for please

The Unique Approach to Politeness in Norwegian Culture

In Norwegian culture, politeness takes on a distinct form that may surprise those accustomed to more formal expressions of courtesy. While Norwegians are not inherently rude, their approach to social interactions differs significantly from many other cultures, emphasizing directness, informality, and a relaxed demeanor.

The Absence of “Please” and Its Implications

One of the most striking aspects of Norwegian politeness is the lack of a direct equivalent for the English word “please.” The phrase “vær så snill” (be so kind) exists but is used sparingly and in specific contexts. This absence doesn’t indicate a lack of manners but rather reflects a cultural preference for straightforward communication.

Norwegians often rely on context, tone of voice, and body language to convey politeness rather than using specific words. Overusing phrases like “vær så snill” can actually be perceived as overly formal or even pleading, which may make Norwegians uncomfortable.

So how do they show their manners?

Instead of “please,” Norwegians frequently use other expressions to show politeness:

1. Gratitude: “Takk” (thank you) is used extensively in various forms, such as “tusen takk” (a thousand thanks) or “hjertelig takk” (heartfelt thanks).
2. Conditional Tenses: Politeness is often conveyed through the use of conditional or past tenses, which soften requests. For example, “Kunne jeg få snakke med deg?” (Could I speak with you?) is considered more polite than a direct present tense request.
3. Informal Address: Norwegians generally use first names and the informal “du” (you) even in professional settings, reflecting their egalitarian culture.

Cultural Norms and Expectations

Norwegian politeness is deeply rooted in cultural values:

• Respect for Personal Space: Norwegians value privacy and personal boundaries, which translates into a form of politeness through non-intrusion.
• Egalitarianism: The lack of formal titles or hierarchical language in everyday interactions reflects Norway’s emphasis on equality.
• Directness: Clear, concise communication is valued over elaborate or flowery language.

Navigating Politeness as a Foreigner

For those new to Norwegian culture, adapting to these norms can be challenging. Here are some tips:

1. Focus on tone and context rather than specific polite phrases.
2. Use “takk” generously to express gratitude.
3. Respect personal space and avoid unnecessary small talk.
4. Be direct in your communication, but maintain a friendly demeanor.

Understanding and adapting to Norwegian politeness norms can greatly enhance social interactions and integration into Norwegian society. While it may seem less formal than other cultures, Norwegian politeness is rooted in mutual respect, equality, and straightforward communication.

More info:
Exploring Norwegian Culture: 15 Essential Conversational Phrases – Norwegian Language School
How to be polite in Norway
Manners in Norwegian
Are Norwegians rude? What to expect from a people with no word for “please”
Phrases in Norwegian: Essential Words and Greetings – Norwegian Language School

2. Oslo burnt down at least 10 times

Oslo, Norway’s capital, has a long and tumultuous history marked by numerous devastating fires that have shaped its urban landscape and architecture. These recurring conflagrations led to significant changes in the city’s development and building practices.

Medieval Oslo: A Tinderbox Waiting to Ignite

In its medieval incarnation, Oslo was particularly susceptible to fires. The city’s buildings were primarily constructed of wood, coated with tar for weatherproofing, and built in close proximity to one another. This combination created ideal conditions for fires to spread rapidly and cause extensive damage.

Notable Fires and Their Impact

Throughout its history, Oslo experienced several major fires:

1. 1567: The city was intentionally set ablaze to repel a Swedish siege
2. 1624: A devastating fire destroyed large parts of the medieval city, prompting King Christian IV of Denmark-Norway to make a decision that would forever change Oslo’s face.
3. 1858: The Christiania fire of April 14 severely damaged several city blocks near Stortorvet, destroying 41 buildings and leaving approximately 1,000 people homeless.

The 1624 Fire: A Turning Point

The 1624 fire was particularly significant in Oslo’s history, the town was completely destroyed. In its aftermath, King Christian IV is said to have rode his horse through the ashes and embers, thrown down his glove and declared declared, “The new town will lie here!”, it would be named after him; Christiana, and it would be built in brick.

To commemorate this pivotal moment in Oslo’s history, a unique sculpture stands in Christiania Torv square. The sculpture, titled “Christian IV’s Glove” but commonly referred to as simply “Hanske.”

The Law Against Wooden Buildings

1. Buildings must be made in brick: After the 1624 fire, there was a ban on traditional Norwegian log buildings. The upper classes were ordered to build expensive brick buildings, while ordinary citizens were allowed to erect timber frame houses in the Danish tradition.
2. Wider Streets: In the new city plan, streets were made wider (24 ells or 15 meters) to prevent fires from spreading easily

More info:
Oslo – Wikipedia
1858 Christiania fire – Wikipedia

Bonus fact: According to a guide I met, Bergen also burnt down many times and had over 30 fires. The Bryggen quarter in particular was devastated by numerous fires.

3. Norway has the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, worth US$307,000 for every Norwegian citizen

Not many countries even have a sovereign wealth fund, but those who do are some big players economically speaking, including Russia, China and Abu Dhabi. Norway, however, has the largest fund at $1.71 trillion. You can see its worth climbing in realtime on the Norges Bank Investment Management website.

Norway’s Oil Fund: A Colossal Piggy Bank That’s Breaking Records

Norway’s Government Pension Fund Global, colloquially known as the Oil Fund, is a financial behemoth that has been turning heads and dropping jaws across the globe. This sovereign wealth fund, born from Norway’s North Sea oil riches, has grown to astronomical proportions, showcasing the country’s exceptional wealth management. As Norway’s domestic power usage is 98% renewable energy (mostly hydropower), it means that all oil produced can be exported at a profit.

Mind-Blowing Numbers

As of August 2024, the fund’s value has skyrocketed to over US$1.71 trillion. To put this in perspective:

1. It’s equivalent to more than US$307,000 for every Norwegian citizen.
2. The fund owns, on average, 1.5% of all listed companies worldwide.
3. It holds 2.33% of all European stocks, making it the largest stock owner in Europe.

David vs. Goliath: Norway’s Wealth Compared

The sheer size of Norway’s fund becomes even more staggering when compared to other countries:

• The fund’s value exceeds the GDP of most nations, including economic powerhouses like Spain and Australia.
• It’s worth more than the combined GDP of all 29 lowest-income countries as classified by the World Bank.
• The fund could theoretically buy all the listed companies on the Oslo Stock Exchange several times over.

A Global Shopping Spree

If Norway decided to go on a hypothetical spending spree with its fund:

• It could purchase Apple, the world’s most valuable company, or Tesla, and still have hundreds of billions left over.
• The fund could buy over 5 million average-priced homes in the United States.
• It could fund NASA’s annual budget for over 70 years.

The Power of Smart Investing

The fund’s success isn’t just about oil money. Since 1998, it has generated an annual return of 6.30%, translating to a staggering 10,070 billion kroner in profits. This return alone is more than twice Norway’s annual GDP.

A Lesson in Long-Term Thinking

Norway’s approach to its oil wealth stands in stark contrast to many other resource-rich nations:

• While some countries spend their resource wealth immediately, Norway saves for future generations.
• The fund is designed to last indefinitely, with the government only spending the expected real return, estimated at around 3% annually.
• This strategy helps Norway avoid the “resource curse” that has plagued many oil-rich nations.

Beyond Money: Ethical Investing

The fund isn’t just about accumulating wealth. It’s also a powerful tool for promoting ethical business practices globally:

• It has excluded numerous companies based on ethical grounds, influencing corporate behaviour worldwide.
• The fund is actively pushing for lower executive pay and better corporate governance in its investments as well as encouraging more female board members
• Parliament has prohibited the fund from investing in companies that manufacture products such as nuclear weapons, landmines, tobacco, and cannabis.

Bonus fact:

Norway is the 4th richest country in the world by GDP per capita.

More info:
Government Pension Fund of Norway – Wikipedia
About the fund – Norges Bank Investment Management
The Government Pension Fund – regjeringen.no
Norway Government Pension Fund – Statistics & Facts
The Norwegian pension system

4. Some say it is illegal to die in Longyearbyen

Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost town located in Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, has gained notoriety for a peculiar claim: that it’s illegal to die there. However, this widely circulated story is more myth than reality.

The Origin of the Myth

The notion that dying is forbidden in Longyearbyen can be traced back to a 2008 BBC article titled “Why Dying is Forbidden in the Arctic.” This piece, employing some artistic license, stated that it was “forbidden to die” in Longyearbyen. Over time, as the story spread across various websites, “forbidden” morphed into “illegal,” further distorting the facts.

The Reality of Death in Longyearbyen

While it’s not illegal to die in Longyearbyen, there are unique circumstances that have led to this misunderstanding:

1. Permafrost Preservation: Due to the extreme cold and permafrost, bodies buried in Longyearbyen don’t decompose normally. This discovery led to the closure of the local cemetery for burials in 1950.
2. Limited Healthcare Facilities: The town’s small hospital isn’t equipped for long-term or end-of-life care. As a result, residents facing serious illnesses are often transferred to mainland Norway.
3. Residency Requirements: To live in Longyearbyen, residents must maintain an address on the mainland, partly due to the lack of extensive healthcare services.

Spanish Flu was found preserved in bodies

One factor contributing to the myth is the discovery of well-preserved bodies from the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. Scientists found that the virus remained intact in these bodies due to the permafrost, raising concerns about potential disease spread if the ground thaws.

Current Practices

While there’s no law against dying in Longyearbyen, certain practices have developed:

• Terminally ill residents are typically transported to mainland Norway for care.
• Cremation is the preferred method for those who wish to have their remains in Longyearbyen.
• Some deaths do occur in the town, but they are relatively rare due to the young, healthy population and the practice of relocating the elderly and seriously ill.

Bonus fact: Three towns in France, an island in Japan and a town in Spain all prohibit death.

More info:
Why It’s Illegal To Die in Longyearbyen
It’s Illegal To Die In This Town In Norway: Here’s Why
Is it Illegal to Die in Longyearbyen, Norway? — Facts-Chology
Inside the town where you can’t die – and what happens if you do

5. The Vikings made it illegal not to make beer for Christmas

The Viking Law That Made Brewing Beer Mandatory

In Viking-age Norway, brewing beer wasn’t just a cherished tradition – it was the law. The ancient Norse took their brewing so seriously that failing to produce beer for certain celebrations could result in severe penalties, including fines, loss of property, and even exile.

This surprising legal requirement has its roots in pre-Christian Scandinavian customs. Long before Christianity reached Norway, Vikings celebrated the winter solstice with a festival called “Jul” (the origin of the modern Norwegian word for Christmas). During this time, they brewed and consumed strong, barley-based beers to honour their Norse gods and coax the return of summer.

Those who didn’t brew beer would be fined

When King Haakon the Good ruled Norway from 934 to 961, he saw an opportunity to blend pagan traditions with Christian practices. As part of his efforts to introduce Christianity, he made it the law to celebrate Christmas with beer. Those who failed to have beer at their Christmas feast were subject to fines.

This beer-brewing mandate was later formalized in the Gulating Laws. These laws required every household to brew Christmas beer and outlined harsh penalties for non-compliance. A rough translation of a Gulating manuscript states:

“Yet another beer brew we are required to make, man and wife from equal amounts of malts, and to bless it Christmas night in thanks to Christ and St Mary, for a good year and peace. If this is not done, three marks must be paid to the bishop.”

The penalties for persistent non-brewing were severe. If someone failed to brew for three consecutive years, they could forfeit all their possessions, with half going to the king and half to the bishop. The offender could even be exiled from Norway.

Brewing was not just about creating an alcoholic beverage; it was a way to honour gods, celebrate community, and showcase one’s skill and status. The best grains were reserved for brewing, and brewers often experimented with flavours by adding herbs like juniper.

Today, this ancient tradition lives on in Norway’s annual production of “Juleøl” or Christmas beer (there’s even a non-acloholic kids’ version called Julebrus). While no longer mandated by law, the creation of these seasonal brews remains a source of pride for Norwegian breweries.

Nowadays those who sell beer could be fined

Since Viking times Norway has flipped it’s position on alcohol. The consumption of alcohol is discouraged and it is illegal for supermarkets, bars and restaurants to sell beer with a strength higher than 4.7% abv. It is also illegal to sell alcohol in stores after 8 PM on weekdays and 6 PM on Saturdays on Sundays or public holidays.

Norwegian beer is the second most expensive in the world

Norway has some of the highest alcohol prices in the world, ranking second after Iceland. This is due to high taxes on alcohol, which can constitute up to 80% of the price of spirits, and the government monopoly on alcohol sales through Vinmonopolet. Each beer can bought also has an added recycling deposit that can be refunded when you recycle the can, equivalent of about 25 US cents.

https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/country-with-most-expensive-beer

More info:
When not brewing Christmas beer was illegal
The History of Christmas Ale, From the Vikings to Today
Did the Viking Age Norse have access to any sort of distilled alcohol?
Eldhuset Dale – Kveik – the Viking Beer Yeast

6. Norwegian cavemen invented Skiing

Imagine a group of prehistoric Norwegians, bundled up in animal furs, strapping pieces of wood to their feet and sliding down snowy hills. While this image might seem comical, it’s not too far from the truth of how skiing began!

The Caveman’s Commute

Long before the Vikings ruled the fjords, ancient Scandinavians were already mastering the art of gliding over snow. Archaeological evidence suggests that skiing in Norway dates back at least 6,000 years. These early “skis” were likely wide wooden planks used for traversing deep snow while hunting or traveling.

From Necessity to National Sport

As centuries passed, skiing evolved from a mere mode of transportation to a beloved pastime. The Sami people, indigenous to Northern Scandinavia, are often credited with developing more advanced skiing techniques for herding reindeer and navigating the harsh Arctic landscape.

The Birth of Modern Skiing

In the 19th century, Norway truly cemented its place as the birthplace of modern skiing. The Telemark and Christiania (now Oslo) regions became hotbeds of ski innovation:

1. Sondre Norheim, often called the “father of modern skiing,” invented the Telemark ski in 1868.
2. The cambered ski was developed, allowing for better weight distribution and maneuverability.
3. Ski jumping emerged as a competitive sport, with the first recorded jump taking place in 1809.

More info:
Skiing In Norway: 1956-57 – SeniorsSkiing.com
A Brief History Of Skiing- How Did We Get Where We Are Today? – Mabey Ski
The Jotunheim Ski Trail – Tracks and Trails
Cross-country skiing in Norway | Try Norway’s national sport – Visit Norway

Watch Pathfinder (1987)

7. Friluftsliv: Norway’s Secret to Happiness in the Great Outdoors

Imagine a lifestyle where stepping outside isn’t just a quick dash to the car, but a profound connection with nature that shapes your very identity. Welcome to the world of Friluftsliv, Norway’s love affair with the outdoors.

What in the World is Friluftsliv?

Friluftsliv (pronounced free-loofts-liv) literally translates to “free air life.” It’s not just a hobby; it’s a way of life deeply ingrained in Norwegian culture. Think of it as the outdoorsy cousin of the Danish hygge, but instead of cozying up indoors, you’re embracing the wild!

1. Baby, It’s Cold Outside: Parents routinely leave their babies outside to nap in sub-zero temperatures as they believe being in fresh air and nature is good for them.
2. Cabin country: Norway has a vast network of public cabins. There are over 400,000 cabins scattered throughout the wilderness, providing cozy shelter for hikers and skiers.
3. Ski-ndergarten: Children as young as 3 years old are taught basic outdoor skills like skiing and many kindergartens and preschools have outdoor programs where children spend significant time outside in nature.
4. Nature lovers: 77% of Norwegians spend time in nature on a weekly basis (compared to 41% of Brits and less then half of Americans), and 25% do so most days.

Creating a stronger family culture through “friluftsliv” – Children & Nature Network

The Law of the Land (Literally) – Right to Roam

Norway has a law called “allemannsrett” or “all man’s right.” This gives everyone the freedom to roam and camp on uncultivated land, regardless of who owns it. It’s like the entire country is one big campground!

Not Just for Hardcore Adventurers

Don’t worry if you’re not ready to climb glaciers or wrestle polar bears. Friluftsliv is for everyone:

• It can be as simple as a Sunday family hike in the forest.
• Or maybe a leisurely cross-country ski trip from cabin to cabin.
• Even sitting on a rock and contemplating a fjord counts!

The Friluftsliv Education

You can actually study Friluftsliv in Norway. Universities offer courses in outdoor education and leadership. But for most Norwegians, the education starts much earlier:

• Three-year-olds learning to ski? Check.
• Six-year-olds climbing mountain peaks? You bet!
• Family vacations centered around outdoor activities? Absolutely!

Friluftsliv Fact Sheet – WordPress.com

The Secret to Happiness?

Studies suggest that embracing Friluftsliv can lead to reduced stress, increased physical activity, and stronger family bonds. It’s no wonder Norway consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world! (as of May 24 Norway was ranked second in the world for mental wellbeing)

The Norwegian secret: how friluftsliv boosts health and happiness – The Guardian
Friluftsliv, Your Life Outdoors – Living A Nordic Life
Creating a Stronger Family Culture Through Friluftsliv – Children & Nature Network
Friluftsliv: The Norwegian Love of the Outdoors – Life in Norway
The Norwegian secret: how friluftsliv boosts health and happiness – The Guardian

8. Norway has the world’s largest gingerbread town

1. World’s Largest Gingerbread Town: Since its inception in 1991, Pepperkakebyen has grown to be recognized as the world’s largest miniature gingerbread town, featuring around 2,000 structures each year, including houses, trains, and even ferris wheels, all made from gingerbread and decorated with colourful candies and icing.
2. Community Involvement: The creation of Pepperkakebyen is a community effort, with contributions from local schools, kindergartens, businesses, and individuals.
3. Charitable Cause: The event operates on a non-profit basis, with all profits from ticket sales going to children’s charities, including Save the Children and SOS Children’s Villages.
4. Made by kids for kids: Children play a significant role in the construction and decoration of the gingerbread town. They help create the structures and often participate in decorating them.
5. A Sweet Aroma: Upon entering the exhibition, visitors are greeted by the delightful aroma of gingerbread.
6. Mini Bergen – Landmarks: Many of the gingerbread structures are modeled after real buildings in Bergen, including historical landmarks like the Troldhaugen, the former home of composer Edvard Grieg.
7. 20,000 visitors: The event attracts thousands of visitors each year, with about 20,000 people visiting during the holiday season.
8. Swimming pool city: The gingerbread town is located at KODE, Bergen’s Art Museum, in a venue that was once a swimming bath.
9. Gingerbread Town Mayor: A fun tradition involves the Mayor of Bergen also holding the title of the Mayor of the gingerbread town during the event.
10. Drunken rampage: In 2019, much of the gingerbread town was destroyed shortly after its opening due to a drunk 20 year old man going on a rampage at Christmas. However, he was forgiven and the community rallied together, baking new gingerbread houses, and the town was able to reopen just a week later, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the Bergen community.

More info:
Bergen’s Gingerbread Town Adds a Sweet Touch to Christmas in Norway – Forbes
World’s Largest Gingerbread Town Adds Sugar and Spice to Norway’s Christmas Celebrations – Lonely Planet
Christmas Gingerbread Town: Pepperkakebyen, Bergen, Norway – ABC News
The World’s Largest Gingerbread Town – Visit Norway

9. Norwegian traditional food: Tacos?

Norway is the biggest consumer of mexican food outside of mexico.

1. Taco Craze: After Mexico, Norway is the highest consumer of tacos in the world.
2. Taco Friday: In Norway, “Tacofredag” or “Taco Friday” is a cherished tradition. Many families gather every Friday to enjoy tacos, making it a weekly ritual. Restaurants offer two for one tacos on Fridays.
3. Cultural Adaptation: Norwegian tacos differ significantly from authentic Mexican tacos. Common ingredients include ground beef seasoned with taco spice, canned corn, sour cream, Norvegia cheese, and even cucumbers, wrapped in large tortillas.
4. American Influence: The popularity of tacos in Norway can be traced back to American culture. Taco products began to be imported in the 1960s, particularly from brands like Old El Paso.
5. Growing Popularity: In 2011, 48% of Norwegians reported eating tacos, burritos, or tortillas at least once a month. This was a 16% increase from 2003, indicating a growing trend.
6. Widespread Acceptance: A survey indicated that 84% of Norwegians liked Mexican food, making it one of the most preferred cuisines in the country.
7. DIY Culture: The DIY aspect of assembling tacos appeals to Norwegian culture, similar to their fondness for IKEA. This hands-on approach allows families to customize their meals.
8. Unique Ingredients: Some Norwegians have been known to add unconventional toppings to their tacos, such as ketchup and pineapples.
9. Taco Variations: The taco has evolved into a national dish in Norway, with variations appearing at birthday parties and casual dinners. New restaurants continue to emerge, each claiming to offer the most authentic experience.
10. Community and Tradition: For many Norwegians, tacos represent family gatherings and shared meals, making them a significant part of social life.

More info:
American Living in Norway Explains the Country’s Taco Craze—and How Theirs Are Different – Upworthy
Taco Norway: The History of a National Dish – University of Oslo
American Mom Explains Norway’s Taco Obsession: Taco Fridays – Business Insider
Popularity of Mexican Cuisine by Country – Statista
Can Five Million Taco-Eating Norwegians Be Wrong? – The Suburban Times

10. Norway has its own indigenous people, called Sami

Previously and incorrectly known as ‘Lapps’, or ‘Laplanders’, the Sami people have lived in Norway for thousands of years.

The Sami are the indigenous people inhabiting the northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia’s Kola Peninsula. About half of the estimated 80,000 Sami people live in Norway. They even have their own parliament to protect Sami culture. The Sami parliament building is shaped like a type of tent called a lavvo.

Sami are allowed to hunt reindeer

Legal Protections: Reindeer husbandry rights are protected by the Constitution of Norway and international law. The Sami people have rights to practice reindeer herding in areas where their ancestors have done so since time immemorial.

Reindeer hotdogs

Reindeer hot dogs can be found at various food stands and restaurants throughout Norway, especially in areas with a strong Sami cultural presence. (Pølse is what Norwegians call hot dogs, half a billion pølse are consumed across the country each year, though they are mostly made of a combination of pork and beef, not reindeer).

The Frozen theme was written by an indigenous Norwegian

A Sami composer, Frode Fjellheim, created the opening song for Disney’s “Frozen” movie. It was inspired by traditional Sami folk music.