About this place
The Olav Tryggvason monument stands in the middle of Trondheim's main square, Torvet, where the streets Munkegata and Kongens gate meet. It is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city centre and a natural starting point for a walk through the old town.
Who was Olav Tryggvason?
Olav Tryggvason was a Viking-age king of Norway who ruled in the late 10th century and died in the year 1000 at the Battle of Svolder. Norwegian tradition regards him as the founder of the town known in the Middle Ages as Nidaros, today's Trondheim. That is why the city placed a monument to him right at its heart. He is also associated with strengthening Christianity in the country.
What does the monument look like?
The sculpture shows the king standing on top of a tall column, and the whole structure is roughly 18 metres high. Norway's national encyclopedia classes this kind of monument as an "æressøyle", an honour column: a freestanding pillar crowned with a statue, a tradition that goes back to antiquity. The sculptor was Wilhelm Rasmussen, and the monument was unveiled in 1921. According to a local history wiki, the merchant Dyre Halse paid for it.
A sundial at the foot of the column
The paving around the base is worth a look. A cobblestone mosaic from 1930 works as a giant sundial, with the column itself casting the shadow. The dial is set to UTC+1, so in summer, when daylight saving time applies, it reads an hour behind your watch. Keep that in mind if you plan to tell the time by the shadow.
What to see nearby
Torvet is Trondheim's central square and an easy base for exploring on foot. Munkegata, the street the monument stands on, is one of the main axes of the city. Most sights of the old centre are within walking distance, and you will find cafés and restaurants in the nearest blocks.
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is the Olav Tryggvason monument? On Torvet square in central Trondheim, at the junction of Munkegata and Kongens gate.
How tall is it? About 18 metres, counting the column and the statue of the king.
When was it unveiled? In 1921. The sculptor was Wilhelm Rasmussen.
Does the sundial show the exact time? It is set to UTC+1, so in summer it shows one hour earlier than local clock time.
Is there an entrance fee? No. The monument stands in an open city square and can be seen at any time.
Why does the monument matter to the city? It commemorates the king regarded as the founder of Trondheim, so it symbolises the city's beginnings.
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