Parliament of Norway Building, Parliament building in central Oslo, Norway
Description
Parliament of Norway Building is a yellow brick structure with gray granite details standing in central Oslo and displaying Romanesque Revival architecture. The structure features a symmetrical facade with a semicircular central section and contains multiple chambers including the main plenary hall, the former Lagthing chamber, and a secure basement room for sensitive deliberations.
History
The building opened in 1866 after architect Emil Victor Langlet won a design competition, overcoming earlier proposals that resembled church architecture. Langlet's selection marked a turning point in creating a secular, independent parliamentary space for the Norwegian nation.
Culture
The Central Hall functions as a gathering space where lawmakers encounter journalists and where visitors can view a large textile artwork by Sissel Blystad. You can observe the daily interaction between politicians and press representatives, giving you a sense of how this place operates as Norway's political heart.
Practical
The building has multiple entrances and is easily accessible on foot from central Oslo. Weekday visits offer the best chance to observe parliamentary activity and see the spaces in use.
Did you know?
Two stone lions guard the entrance ramps leading to the main platform, carved by inmates from Akershus Fortress under sculptor C. Borch's direction. This unexpected link between a prison and this important government seat adds an unusual layer to the building's story.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Oslo Municipality).
Karl Johans gate
46 m
National Theatre Oslo
350 m
Grand Hotel
81 m
Oslo Nye Teater
139 m
Det Norske Teatret
230 m
Egertorget
106 m
Stortings plass
52 m
Kunstnerforbundet, Oslo
250 m
Paradox Museum Oslo
157 m
Tostrupgården
62 m
Universitetsgata 26
263 m
Horngården
110 m
Athenæum
92 m
Stortingsgata 16
235 m
Opera Comique
238 m
Bokhandelens hus
173 m
Groschgården
252 m
Skreddergården
74 m
Oslo bokfestival
153 m
Pressens Hus
239 m
Gud wære med os-gården
192 m
Mayol-teatret
275 m
Kristiania Haandværkeres Sparekasse
113 m
Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson
300 m
Henrik Ibsen
303 m
Oslo Nye Teater
139 m
Eidsvolls plass
152 m
Øvre Slottsgate 14
141 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes