Manufakturhuset

Manufakturhuset is the largest surviving secular Baroque structure in Bergen, located at Peter Motzfeldts gate 2 with a distinctive architectural character. Today it houses sections of the Municipal Department for Kindergarten, Schools, and Sports, with direct connection to City Hall's cafeteria.

The building began in 1646 as an orphanage for children between 12 and 18 years old before becoming a workhouse and forced labor facility. This period of harsh institutional use continued until 1886, marking a major shift in its purpose.

The north wing hosted a church starting in 1744, which originally served residents before being repurposed as an exercise space later on. Walking through the building today, you can still sense these layered uses in how the rooms are arranged.

The building sits directly adjacent to City Hall, making it easy to locate, and it connects to the hall's cafeteria for convenience. It is open during regular municipal office hours, so plan your visit during standard working days.

This was Norway's first textile manufacturing center, producing military uniforms for regiments stationed in Bergen, Trondheim, and Kristiansand under royal authority. This industrial role was surprising for what was primarily known as a labor institution.