National Theater (Nationaltheatret), Oslo

National Theater (Nationaltheatret), Oslo

The National Theater (Nationaltheatret) in Oslo is one of Norway's main stages for performing arts. Located within Studenterlunden park adjacent to Karl Johans Gate, the building's site was debated for decades, facing initial resistance from the nearby university, which argued that a theater did not harmonize with the academic and governmental offices in the area. However, the success of Norwegian playwrights like Ibsen and Bjørnson eventually swayed public opinion, leading to the theater’s approval. The Baroque-style building, with its yellow-brick-and-granite facades, was designed by architect Henrik Bull and completed in September 1899.

The theater's first performances featured works by Ludvig Holberg, Henrik Ibsen, and Bjornstjerne Bjornson. The latter two are commemorated with statues flanking the front entrance. Likewise, the names of all three are inscribed on the building's facade.

The theater has faced challenges since its inception, including being too small. Over the years, various proposals for its expansion have been made, though none has materialized. Lately, a new project for rehabilitation and modernization has been initiated.

Alongside the main stage, seating 741, the building includes three other stages: the Amphitheatre, Painters' Hall, and Backstage. The former was opened in 1963, while the Painters' Hall, the smallest, was introduced in 1983.

The theater is open for guided tours – pre-scheduled, lasting for about 45 minutes. Visitors will see the foyer, which includes original furnishings dating back to the 1899 opening, plus the theater's workshops, stages, and other behind-the-scenes areas.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Oslo. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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National Theater (Nationaltheatret) on Map

Sight Name: National Theater (Nationaltheatret)
Sight Location: Oslo, Norway (See walking tours in Oslo)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Oslo, Norway

Create Your Own Walk in Oslo

Create Your Own Walk in Oslo

Creating your own self-guided walk in Oslo is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Oslo Introduction Walking Tour

Oslo Introduction Walking Tour

Originally a Viking village, Norway's capital city has a long and multifaceted history that begins long before its establishment as a trading hub of Ánslo in 1040 AD. Archaeological findings suggest the presence of a Christian settlement in the area predating the year 1000.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Oslo's significance varied under the rule of Danish and Norwegian kings. Around...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Grunerlokka Walking Tour

Grunerlokka Walking Tour

Formerly a working-class area of Oslo, Grunerlokka is one of the capital’s hippest neighborhoods. This district is named after Friedrich Gruner, the former chief administrator of the city in the late 1600s. Today's Grunerlokka is a fusion of Norwegian and foreign cultures, owing it largely to the late 20th-century gentrification process.

Apart from the street art, stylish bars, happening...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Historical Churches Walking Tour

Historical Churches Walking Tour

Oslo's religious landscape, particularly within the Christian tradition, is a captivating tapestry interwoven with history, faith, and architectural elegance. The city boasts a collection of historical churches reflecting the evolution of local Christian communities. Diverse in their designs, these sacred sites offer a glimpse into the deep-rooted religious traditions that have shaped Oslo...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Old Oslo Walking Tour

Old Oslo Walking Tour

The historic Old Town of Oslo is the oldest part of the city which dates back to the days of medieval Norway. This urban area emerged around the year 1000 and became the capital of Norway's dominion (within the Dano-Norwegian Realm) around 1300. The Old Town district continued to be known as Oslo, while the whole city was called Christiania, until 1925.

One of its prominent landmarks is...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.4 Km or 0.9 Miles
Museum District (Bygdoy) Walking Tour

Museum District (Bygdoy) Walking Tour

Oslo's Museum District, located on the Bygdoy Peninsula, is home to some of the most visited museums in the city. Repositories of precious artifacts from Norway’s history, these remarkable institutions collectively represent a treasure trove for those keen on exploring this northerly nation's past.

One of the standout attractions here is the Fram Museum, showcasing the incredible...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles

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Traveler's Choice: 15 Norwegian Gifts from Oslo

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