Stavanger in the Viking Age

by coach & on foot

Stavanger and its surrounding areas have for centuries played a leading part in Norway's maritime history, from a time when Viking kings battled in Hafrsfjord, through the period of the steamships up to modern super-tankers. Stavanger is also the most important oil industry city in Norway due to its geographical position.

Your first stop will be to admire the Sverd I Fjell (Swords in Rock), a monument located just outside the city, created by sculptor Fritz Røed. The three swords stand 10m (32ft) tall and are planted into the rock commemorating the historic Battle of Hafrsfjord that took place in the year 872, when Viking King Harald Fairhair defeated the regional princes and united the 29 small kingdoms under one crown. The swords symbolise peace, unity, and freedom.

Next, you will visit the reconstructed settlement at the Iron Age Farm, located on the original archaeological site and now a living open-air museum. Here you will learn more about this period of history and the way early Norwegians lived and worked.

Re-joining your coach, you will then pass through both the older and newer parts of Stavanger. A stop will be made to enjoy external views of Stavanger Cathedral, before your return to Sandnes and your waiting ship.