Norwegian Royal Palace

The construction of the Norwegian Royal Palace (Det Kongelige Slott) in Oslo, Norway began on October 1, 1825, and was completed in 1849. The palace was intended to be a house for King Carl Johan, but it was only built after his death, therefore it would never be used for that purpose.

The Norwegian Royal Palace has undergone a variety of adjustments and changes over the years to make it more livable. The changing of the guard takes place every day at 1:30 p.m., and guided tours of the palace run about an hour.

Prior to the completion of the palace, Norway's royal family stayed in Paléet, a splendid townhouse bequeathed to the state by wealthy businessman Bernt Anker in 1805. Paléet was used by the viceroys of Norway in the latter years of Norway's union with Denmark, and by 1814, it was home to Christian Frederick, Norway's first sovereign king.

When King Carl Johan visited Oslo, he stayed in Paléet as both crown prince and king. Carl Johan, on the other hand, desired a purpose-built royal dwelling, and work on the new royal palace began in October 1825, when the monarch lay the foundation stone. The stunning new palace was created by Danish-born architect Hans Linstow and features a stuccoed brick facade. The palace boasted 2 large wings and was 3 stories high.

With its 6 classical columns and sweeping wings, the Norwegian Royal Palace, which is surrounded by the Slottsparken, is difficult to miss. The royalty, who work and live there, uses the Royal Palace on a daily basis. As a result, the palace is also used to receive foreign heads of state, as well as host audiences and official banquets. The Royal Palace is open to the public throughout the summer.

Location: Oslo, Norway