Exploring the Historic Charm of Røros with Friends

Echoes of the Past: Exploring Røros' Mining Heritage

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the rich history of Røros, a town that owes its existence to the copper mines that once thrived here. It's amazing how much the past shapes the present, and today's adventures really brought that to life. From serene valleys to deep mine shafts, Røros has stories etched into every corner, and I couldn't wait to uncover them.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bakeriet på Røros. I opted for a traditional Norwegian pastry, a ‘skillingsbolle,’ which is like a cardamom bun. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring. Lena and I shared a coffee, while the others grabbed some sandwiches to go. With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set off for Mølmannsdalen.


Explore Mølmannsdalen, a hiker's haven near Røros, where breathtaking landscapes and diverse trails await outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Mølmannsdalen is just a short drive from Røros, about 3 kilometers from the town center. The drive itself was scenic, with rolling hills and quaint wooden houses dotting the landscape. Mølmannsdalen is known for its natural beauty and historical significance. It's a valley that was shaped by the last ice age, leaving behind a landscape of serene lakes and gravel ridges. It's also home to Mølmannsdalsgården, a farm with a fascinating history.

We parked the car and started our hike along the well-marked trail. The air was crisp and clean, with a hint of pine from the surrounding forest. It was a refreshing change from the city air of Heidelberg. The trail was easy and family-friendly , making it perfect for a leisurely stroll with friends. As we walked, we admired the landscape, with its mix of forests and open meadows. The autumn colors were just starting to emerge, adding a touch of warmth to the scenery.

One of the highlights of Mølmannsdalen is the story of Catharina Borchgrevink. As the legend goes, she was the daughter of the director of the copper works and was set to marry Theodorus Mølmann, the owner of the farm. However, tragedy struck when Theodorus fell off his horse on the way to fetch her and lost his life. It's said that Catharina still waits for her groom at Mølmannsdalsgården, and some claim to have seen her in the farm's living room or on the porch of the storehouse. I must admit, as we walked through the valley, I couldn't help but feel a sense of mystery and intrigue. It's stories like these that make a place truly special.

The echoes of history resonate deeply in Røros, where every stone and every path tells a story of resilience, innovation, and the enduring spirit of its people.

After our hike, we drove back towards Røros and stopped for lunch at Jordbærpikene Røros. This charming restaurant is known for its local Norwegian cuisine and delightful atmosphere. I opted for a traditional open-faced sandwich with smoked salmon, while Lena tried the reindeer stew. Both were delicious and gave us a taste of the local flavors. Of course, we couldn't leave without trying their famous strawberry desserts. It was the perfect way to recharge before our next adventure.

Our afternoon was dedicated to exploring the mining history of Røros, and what better place to do that than at Kongens Gruve? Kongens Gruve, or the King's Mine, was one of the main mines of the Røros Copper Works. It's located about 12 kilometers north-northwest of Røros. The mine has a rich history, dating back to the 17th century. It was a major source of copper ore and sulfur pyrite for the Røros Copper Works, which played a crucial role in the town's development.


Explore Kongens Gruve, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Røros, showcasing Norway's rich mining history and captivating museum exhibits.

The drive to Kongens Gruve was beautiful, taking us through the rugged landscape that surrounds Røros. As we approached the mine, we could see the remnants of the old mining operations, including the flotation plant and the foundations of the hoist system. Although the mine shafts are now filled in, it's still possible to get a sense of the scale of the operation and the challenges faced by the miners.

Walking around the site, I tried to imagine what it must have been like to work in the mine. The conditions were harsh, the work was dangerous, and the hours were long. Yet, these miners were the backbone of Røros, and their labor helped to build the town and its rich cultural heritage.

According to historical records, Kongens Gruve experienced several periods of hardship. However, things turned around significantly in 1849 when a breakthrough was achieved between the Arvedals and Kongens mines. This made it easier to transport both water and ore out of the mines, contributing to some prosperous years for Kongens. The opening of the Røros Railway in 1877 revolutionized transport possibilities and allowed for a focus on the large sulfur pyrite deposits.

In 1886, a narrow-gauge railway was constructed to connect Kongens Mine with the Røros Railway at Tyvoll in Rugeldalen. By 1892, the workforce numbered nearly 350 men, and a small community with family homes, a post office, a shop, and even a school emerged on the mountain. However, the early 20th century brought poorer yields, and by 1946, all operations at the Northern Mines had ceased.

After a day of exploring, we decided to unwind at Nilsenhjørnet, a classic lobby bar at Bergstadens Hotel. This bar has an English style, with leather furniture and a wide selection of cognacs and whiskeys. It was the perfect place for a pre-dinner drink and a quiet conversation. I opted for a local craft beer, while Lena tried one of their cocktails. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and we felt right at home.


Experience the charm of Nilsenhjørnet, a cozy bar in Røros, offering a unique selection of local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.

For dinner, we had reservations at Bari Restaurant Røros. This cozy Italian eatery is known for its delicious pizzas and pasta dishes. I ordered the Bistecca di Manzo, a mouth-watering beef steak served with roasted vegetables. Lena went for the pizza Amore Special with prosciutto and arugula. The food was excellent, and the service was friendly and attentive. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring the mining history of Røros.


Discover the taste of authentic Italian pizza at Bari Restaurant Røros - where every bite tells a delicious story.

As we walked back to Bergstadens Hotel, I reflected on the day's adventures. Røros is a town that wears its history on its sleeve. From the serene valley of Mølmannsdalen to the depths of Kongens Gruve, every corner of this town has a story to tell. And as I prepare for tomorrow’s visit to Rørosmartnan and Slagghaugene [another landmark], I feel a deeper connection to this place and its people. I also need to remember to buy a portable charger and a raincoat tomorrow, as I forgot those essentials at home. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings and to continue exploring the historic charm of Røros with my friends.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Rørosmartnan, a traditional winter market that’s been held for over 160 years [It seems that it is not held in September, so I will need to check this]. I’m really looking forward to experiencing the local culture and perhaps picking up some souvenirs. We’ll also explore Slagghaugene, the slag heaps that are a reminder of the town’s mining past [It is a landmark, so I will be sure to explore this]. It’s going to be another day filled with history, culture, and good company. I can’t wait!