In terms of inhabitants, Harstad is the third largest city in Northern Norway with approximately
23, 000 persons living in the immediate area. Situated approximately 155 miles north of the Artic Circle, the main industries are shipbuilding, fishing and trading. On the cultural side, the town is also of importance. Every year at the end of June, the Festival of Northern Norway is arranged with concerts, theater performances and exhibitions of various kinds.
Departing the pier you will first take a scenic drive through the center of the town as you head towards the Trondenes peninsula. Here, you will stop for a visit at the Trondenes church, erected in 1250 in late Roman style. The oldest piece in the church is the baptismal font and it is here where the first Christians of Northern Norway were baptized. The three beautiful triptychs were made in Northern Germany in medieval times and the organ is in late baroque/rococo style. Around the church building runs a wall that dates back to medieval times and you can even see the remains of two watchtowers that overlook the sea.
From the church, you will walk approximately a 1/2 mile to the Historical Center which was opened in May 1997. Here, the history of the region Haalogaland is told by using pictures, displays, special lighting and even smells. The Center focuses on tales from the Norse Period and the Viking Period, as well as enlightening visitors on the power of the church, Norwegian heroes and old Norwegian customs
Travelling back to the pier, your return route will take you through the suburbs to see how people live up here far beyond the Arctic Circle.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of moderate walking/standing and some steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and those with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Flat, comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket are suggested. The order of the sites visited or viewed may vary. The transportation is not air-conditioned.