Rudolf Nilsens plass, Oslo

Rudolf Nilsens plass is a public square and neighbourhood park in the Tøyen area of eastern Oslo, at the junction of Vahls gate and Heimdalsgata. It is not a headline sight, but it is a pleasant stop for anyone who wants to see everyday Oslo and learn a bit about a historically working-class district.

Where is Rudolf Nilsens plass?

The square lies in Tøyen. According to the City of Oslo's park page, it is bordered by Vahls gate to the north, Heimdalsgata to the west and Herslebs gate to the south. It sits among dense city blocks rather than along the usual tourist routes around Karl Johans gate or the harbour.

How did it get its name?

The place was first called Vahls plass, after the botanist Martin Vahl. In 1952 it was renamed after the author and poet Rudolf Nilsen, who had lived at Heimdalsgata 26. Two years later, in 1954, a statue of the poet by sculptor Knut Steen was unveiled here. The bronze figure shows a strong worker, reflecting Nilsen's ties to the labour movement and to the neighbourhood.

How did the square come about?

The municipality bought the plot in 1891 to create a playground for local residents. For well over a century it has served as a shared green space in a tightly built part of the city.

What can you see and do here?

The square was thoroughly upgraded, and the new Rudolf Nilsens plass opened in June 2022. According to the municipality, facilities include:

• an artificial turf pitch that becomes an ice rink in winter,
• outdoor exercise equipment,
• lawns, benches and tables,
• a large playground for the youngest children,
• a multi-court.

Who is it for?

It works well as a stop on a walk through Tøyen, as a break with children, or for a rest on a bench. Readers of literature and history can look at the Nilsen statue and learn about the man the square is named after.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? No, it is a public city square that is free to use.

Who was Rudolf Nilsen? A Norwegian author and poet who lived at nearby Heimdalsgata 26. The square has carried his name since 1952.

Is it good for children? Yes. There is a large playground for small children, plus a pitch, a multi-court and exercise equipment.

What happens here in winter? The artificial turf pitch can be turned into an ice rink.

Who made the statue? The bronze statue is by Knut Steen and was unveiled in 1954.

When was the square renovated? The renovated square opened in June 2022.