Step into the roots of Viking history in Sarpsborg – one of Norway’s oldest cities, founded by Saint Olav in 1016. At the heart of this heritage stands Borgarsyssel Museum, located where the medieval city of Borg once rose. Established in 1921, the open-air museum features more than 20 historic buildings and the impressive ruins of St. Nicholas Church, dating back to the early 1100s. Here, visitors can explore Østfold’s rich cultural journey from the Middle Ages to modern times.

🔹 Olavsdagene – annual celebration of Saint Olav: Olavsdagene

🔹 Olavsdagene on Instagram: Instagram - Olavsdagene

Every summer, Sarpsborg honors its deep Viking traditions through Olavsdagene, a dynamic cultural festival with concerts, storytelling, and the powerful outdoor performance “Olav den Heldige”. These events unfold in Landeparken, a lush parkland near the peaceful lake Tunevannet, creating a truly atmospheric experience of the city’s past.

Tunevannet itself is a natural gem. With its calm waters and forested surroundings, the lake invites reflection, recreation, and connection to the landscapes that once shaped daily life in the Viking age.

Together, these sites offer a vivid, hands-on journey through Sarpsborg’s unique blend of nature, history, and Viking legacy.