One of the most picturesque places in Bergen is the old Bryggen embankment which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city of Bergen was formed at the end of the 11th century. In the 14th century, there was founded a representative office of the Hanseatic League. Thanks to this, the life of the city activated, the city started to grow and develop. The Bryggen embankment became a favorite place of citizens. Shops and offices, warehouses and official institutions were built there. So, the area was bustling with life. We can say that Bryggen was the administrative center of the city.
Now it is a historical landmark which consists of 17 restored houses. Tourists often wonder: what can you do on this embankment, since it is so small?
In fact, there is something to do there. First, walk along these bright and unusual facades enjoying their simple, but at the same time elegant architecture. Many facades still have beautiful wooden sculptures: a deer's head, a unicorn, and an angel. Secondly, the other part of the harbor offers a beautiful view of the panorama of Bryggen. Then you can go to the souvenir shops to buy something to remember your visit.
However, the most interesting thing is to go through the courtyards deep into the quarter. An attentive traveler will find lots of treasures there. For example, a craft workshop where you can see how, according to ancient technologies, the masters worked. You can also go to a Christmas store that is open all year round. There is also an interesting art gallery of modern art hidden there. In one of the courtyards, guests are greeted by a sculpture of a huge wooden catfish.
Besides, there is a workshop of modern Norwegian sculptors. There you can not only communicate with artists but also buy some of their works.
In other words, even though it is only a block and 17 houses, you can spend almost the whole day there if you carefully look at all the features and secrets that are hidden in the depths of the ancient courtyards.