Alta, Administrative center in Finnmark, Norway.
Description
Alta sits along the Altafjord and spreads across several settlements along the coast and inland, where residential areas and public facilities scatter across a wide territory. The built-up area ranges from small hamlets to the main town, which sits at a wide river mouth and is surrounded by mountains.
History
The municipality was established in 1863 and laid the foundation for the administrative structure of the region. During World War II, parts of the settlements were destroyed, and reconstruction followed in the postwar years.
Culture
The name comes from the Sami word Álttá, referring to the river current, and shows the connection between landscape and ancient language. In winter, the sun stays below the horizon for several weeks, while in summer it never sets, and this light shapes the daily rhythm of those who live here.
Practical
The airport grounds are located a few kilometers from the center, and from there roads lead to the different settlements along the fjord. Healthcare facilities and schools are in the main town, while smaller hamlets are scattered across the municipal area.
Did you know?
Every year in January, a hotel is built entirely from ice and snow on the riverbank, and it stands until spring when the temperature melts it away again. The construction requires a new build each season, as the walls and furniture are made of frozen water.
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The Rock Art of Alta
5.3 km
Northern Lights Cathedral
1.7 km
Altafjord
1.8 km
Kåfjorden
11 km
Tirpitz Museum
11.8 km
World Heritage Rock Art Centre - Alta Museum
5.3 km
Alta Museum - World Heritage Center for Rock carvings
5.3 km
Seiland National Park
45.5 km
Alta Church
2.2 km
Sautso
28.1 km
Langfjorden
22.6 km
Jiepmaluokta
5.1 km
Talvik Church
15.1 km
Raipas
4.9 km
Komagfjord Church
31.7 kmSeilandsjøkelen
49.3 km
Øksfjord Church
46.2 km
Kåfjord bridge
10.2 km
Rafsbotn Chapel
10.3 kmHaldde
14.8 km
Øksfjorden, Loppa
47.4 km
Skillefjorden
22.5 km
Sennalandet kapell
44.4 kmAmtmannsnes
1.7 km
Sami Siida
5.4 kmVassbotndalen
16 km
Rognsund Church
40.1 km
Finnmarksfakultetet
930 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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