Bergenhus Fortress Museum
July 19, 2023
After touring the old buildings, we went to the mostly military museum in the fortress area. There were historic weapons and uniforms, and a lot of emphasis on the resistance during Nazi occupation.
A model of the fortress area long ago.
Norway was occupied by the Nazis in World War II. Resistance efforts included weapons use and training, but perhaps more importantly, espionage. Information was gathered and passed on to the Allies mainly in England.
Exhibits also deal with more recent conflicts.
Near the museum is St. Mary’s Church, the oldest surviving building in Bergen. It was built around 1150. The most recent restoration was finished in 2015. In 1408 it was taken over by the Hanseatic League merchants, and sermons were delivered in German until after World War I. Wikipedia says that the Bergen Anglican Church has English language services there now.
The tryptich is church's “oldest treasure,” North German from the end of thw fifteenth century.
The unique pulpit dates to 1676, a gift from wealthy merchants. Materials suggest a link to East Asia.
The organ was built during the restoration so it dates from 2015. There are 38 ranks in 31 stops sounding in a German Baroque style. Specifications for it and other major organs in Bergen can be found in the brochure for the 2022 organ festival.
