Explore Norway

Location:
Norway

Currency:
Norwegian krone (NOK)

Communications:
The telephone code for Norway: + 47

About:
Norway, "The Land of Vikings, and the Midnight Sun," is the northernmost country in Europe, and quite honestly, one of the most visually stunning places on the planet.

Two centuries of Viking raids into Europe tapered off following the adoption of Christianity by King Olav TRYGGVASON in 994. Conversion of the Norwegian kingdom occurred over the next several decades.

In 1397, Norway was absorbed into a union with Denmark that lasted more than four centuries. In 1814, Norwegians resisted the cession of their country to Sweden and adopted a new constitution.

Sweden then invaded Norway but agreed to let Norway keep its constitution in return for accepting the union under a Swedish king. Rising nationalism throughout the 19th century led to a 1905 referendum granting Norway independence.

Although Norway remained neutral in World War I, it suffered heavy losses to its shipping. Norway proclaimed its neutrality at the outset of World War II, but was nonetheless occupied for five years by Nazi Germany (1940-45).

In 1949, neutrality was abandoned and Norway became a member of NATO. Discovery of oil and gas in adjacent waters in the late 1960s boosted Norway's economic fortunes. The current focus is on containing spending on the extensive welfare system and planning for the time when petroleum reserves are depleted. In referenda held in 1972 and 1994, Norway rejected joining the EU.

Its toothy western coastline, a jagged expanse of islands and fjords, defines this Nordic country, and for that matter, its people.

With limited space for farming, the Norwegians took to the sea. It's maritime industry sustains the economy, and Norway has the world's third largest merchant fleet.

Today, North Sea oil production is the major industry, followed by tourism.

Norway is a land of clean water, fresh air, and friendly, hard-working people. Winter sports (especially skiing) are the national pastime. Oslo (the oldest) Scandinavian capital city, is its heart, and a must-see stop for any traveler.