The Album: Oslo and surroundings

Oslo is one of the world's largest capitals in area, but has only around half a million inhabitants. There is a lot to do and see in Oslo, excellent touristic sites, many beautiful views of the city by the fjord from the surrounding rolling mountains, parks, hiking and skiing trails (2,600 kilometers / 1,600 miles in greater Oslo).

Oslo has been Norway's center of commerce for over 1,000 years, and most major Norwegian companies are based in or around the capital. The sea has always been Norway's lifeline to the rest of the world, and the Oslo Fjord teems with activity, from summer sailors and shrimpers to merchant ships and passenger ferries heading for Denmark and Germany, as well as many international cruise lines.

Oslo is an old city, dating from the mid-11th century. When it was devasted by fire in 1624 (houses were made of wood), the Danish king Christian IV redesigned and rebuilt the city and named it Christiania. The old name Oslo was only to be reinstated when the Parliament decided to changed the name in 1925.

Views from the Oslo fjord

In Oslo

From a farm in Hurum