Vålandstårnet, Stone observation tower in Stavanger, Norway.
Vålandstårnet is a round stone tower in Stavanger with multiple floors rising about 84 meters above sea level. The structure offers views over the city and is used today by community groups for meetings and events.
The current tower was built in 1895 under city engineer Halvard Lange's supervision, replacing a military watchtower from the Napoleonic War period. This change reflects the shift from military to civilian purposes in the city's development.
The tower serves as a gathering place where local groups run a Sunday café offering Norwegian pastries and coffee to visitors. This social space brings the community together regularly.
The tower is open for community groups to use for meetings and events, with guidelines regarding cleaning and alcohol restrictions in place. Visitors should check ahead since access depends on availability and scheduled activities.
The tower originally housed the city's first pressurized water reservoir system and simultaneously served as a fire watch station and restaurant. This multiple use made it an important structure serving various functions for the growing city.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
