About NO
Norway is a country located in Northern Europe, with a long coastline along the North Atlantic Ocean and the Barents Sea. It shares borders with Sweden to the east, Finland, and Russia to the northeast, and is also in close proximity to Denmark across the North Sea. Norway has a population of approximately 5.4 million people and covers an area of 385,207 square kilometers. The capital and largest city is Oslo.
Norwegian is the official language of Norway and the currency is the Norwegian krone. Norway is a constitutional monarchy, with King Harald V as the head of state and Erna Solberg as the current prime minister.
Norway is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rugged mountains, deep fjords, and dramatic coastal landscapes. The country is also known for its thriving fishing industry and is a major producer of oil and gas. Norway has a high standard of living and is consistently ranked among the happiest countries in the world.
Norway is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with a long history of Viking seafaring and exploration. The country is known for its traditional folk music and dance, as well as for its modern art and design scene. The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded annually in Oslo, and Norway is also home to many other cultural and historical attractions, such as the Viking Ship Museum and the Arctic Cathedral.
National Culture Objects
Fjords
Norwegian fjords, such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, are stunning natural landscapes carved by glaciers. They symbolize Norway's natural beauty and are a key part of its identity and tourism industry.
Stave Churches
Stave churches, like the one in Borgund, are medieval wooden Christian churches unique to Norway. They represent the country's architectural heritage and Viking history.
The Bunad
The Bunad is a traditional Norwegian costume worn during celebrations and national holidays. Each region has its distinctive design, representing local culture and history.
Norwegian Salmon
Norwegian salmon is famous worldwide and represents the country's rich fishing traditions and its significant role in the global seafood industry.
Skiing
Skiing is deeply embedded in Norwegian culture, with the country being a pioneer in both recreational and competitive skiing. It symbolizes Norway's winter sports heritage and outdoor lifestyle.
The Viking Ship
The Viking ship, such as the Oseberg ship displayed in the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo, represents Norway's Viking heritage and seafaring history.
The Hardanger Fiddle
The Hardanger fiddle is a traditional Norwegian string instrument known for its distinctive sound and ornate design. It represents the country's musical traditions and folk culture.
The national anthem of Norway is called "Ja, vi elsker dette landet", which translates to "Yes, we love this country" in English. The anthem was written by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson and composed by Rikard Nordraak in the mid-19th century, during a time when Norway was struggling for independence from Sweden.
The anthem's lyrics express love and pride for Norway, its natural beauty, and its people. The chorus of the anthem is as follows:
