E.C. Dahls park

E.C. Dahls park is a city park in central Trondheim, in the Kalvskinnet district on Bispegata. English-style landscaping, tall trees and a fountain make it a quiet green pocket a few steps from Nidaros Cathedral. It sits beside the E.C. Dahl foundation building, regarded as one of the city's most typical Art Nouveau structures.

Where does the park come from?

The land was originally a plant nursery owned by Madame Tronstad in the mid-1800s. In the 1860s the brewery owner Erich Christian Dahl bought the property, and the park carries his name. From 1870 he commissioned plans for the grounds from the royal gardener Kayser. The park opened to the public in 1883, after Dahl's death.

What is there to see?

The layout follows the English landscape garden tradition. The main features are:

• tall, mature trees that give shade on summer days,
• broad lawns where locals relax after work,
• flower beds,
• a fountain,
• clipped hedges shaped into formal lines.

Right next door stands the Art Nouveau foundation building, worth a look while you are here. Its facade makes a good backdrop for photos.

The park in wartime and after

During the Second World War, parts of the park were dug up to build air-raid shelters. In 1970-71 the western section, facing Sverres gate, was used for an extension of the foundation building. As a result, the park today is smaller than the one that opened in 1883.

Getting there

The park lies in the historic centre, so you can walk to it from most nearby sights. The closest bus stop, Nidarosdomen, is about a four-minute walk away. Entry is free and the park is open to everyone.

Frequently asked questions

Is E.C. Dahls park the same as E.C. Dahls Arena? No. E.C. Dahls Arena is a concert venue on Strandveien and is unrelated to the park, although both names come from the Dahl brewing family.

When did the park open? In 1883.

Why is it named after E.C. Dahl? Erich Christian Dahl, a Trondheim brewery owner, bought the land and had the park planned.

Is the park free to visit? Yes, it is a public city park open to all.

What style is the garden? English landscape style, with large lawns, tall trees, flowers, a fountain and clipped hedges.

Can I combine it with other sights? Yes. The park is close to Nidaros Cathedral and the centre of Trondheim, so it fits easily into a walk through the old town. It makes a pleasant pause between sightseeing stops.