Oslo Kongsgård estate, Medieval royal estate ruins in Old Town, Oslo, Norway
Oslo Kongsgård estate is a medieval royal residence with preserved fortification walls, towers, and foundation structures. The remains sit within Middelalderparken and show how defensive architecture was arranged during that period.
Construction began between 1040 and 1060 under King Harald Hardrada with fortifications in the motte-and-bailey style. The site became central to Oslo's rise as Norway's royal capital.
The name Oslo may derive from this royal site. Today the grounds function as a park where people walk and explore its medieval past.
The site can be visited free of charge within Middelalderparken, a central park with marked walking paths. The ruins are accessible year-round and visible from multiple sides of the park.
The site once contained the largest medieval log houses ever recorded in Norway. These massive wooden structures reveal the scale of royal power and wealth in that era.
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