Bryggen: Bergen's Historic Wharf of Wonders

• HelloHei
  [hay]
• GoodbyeHa det
  [ha deh]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNei
  [nay]
• Please/You're welcomeVær så god
  [vair so goh]
• Thank youTakk
  [tahk]
• Excuse me/SorryUnnskyld
  [oon-skuld]
• How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vor-dan har doo deh]
• Fine. And you?Bra. Og du?
  [bra oh doo]
• Do you speak English?Snakker du engelsk?
  [snak-ker doo eng-elsk]
• I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [yay for-stor eek-keh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, takk
  [yay vil yer-neh se meh-nyen, tahk]
• I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt
  [yay spee-ser eek-keh shøt]
• Cheers!Skål!
  [skawl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, takk
  [yay vil yer-neh bet-tal-leh, tahk]

• Help!Hjelp!
  [yelp]
• Go away!Gå vekk!
  [goh vek]
• Call the Police!Ring politiet!
  [ring po-lee-tee-et]
• Call a doctor!Ring en lege!
  [ring en leg-eh]
• I'm lostJeg er tapt
  [yay er tahpt]
• I'm illJeg er syk
  [yay er sook]

• I'd like to buy...Jeg vil kjøpe...
  [yay vil shur-peh]
• I'm just lookingJeg ser bare
  [yay sair bah-reh]
• How much is it?Hvor mye koster det?
  [vor me-eh kost-er deh]
• That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh er for deert]
• Can you lower the price?Kan du senke prisen?
  [kan doo sen-keh pree-sen]

• What time is it?Hva er klokka?
  [vah er klok-ka]
• It's one o'clockKlokken er ett
  [klok-ken er ett]
• Half past (10)Halv ti
  [halv tee]
• MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
• AfternoonEttermiddag
  [et-ter-mee-dag]
• EveningKveld
  [kvelld]
• YesterdayI går
  [ee gor]
• TodayI dag
  [ee dahg]
• TomorrowI morgen
  [ee mor-gen]
• 1En
  [en]
• 2To
  [toh]
• 3Tre
  [treh]
• 4Fire
  [feer-eh]
• 5Fem
  [fem]
• 6Seks
  [sehks]
• 7Syv
  [soov]
• 8Åtte
  [otta]
• 9Ni
  [nee]
• 10Ti
  [tee]

• Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/et...?
  [vor er en/et]
• What's the address?Hva er adressen?
  [vah er a-dres-sen]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise meg (på kartet)?
  [kan doo vee-seh may (poh kar-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Når går neste (buss)?
  [norr gor nes-teh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)En billett (til ....)
  [en bee-let (teel)]

Bryggen, which translates to 'the wharf,' was founded in the late 11th century as a trading post by King Olav Kyrre. Its strategic location along the harbor made it a vital hub for trade. By the 14th century, Bryggen became a significant port for the Hanseatic League, a powerful commercial alliance of merchant guilds from northern Germany. The Bryggen wharf was the focal point of trade between Norway and continental Europe, facilitating the export of fish and the import of goods such as grain, cloth, and wine.

On June 15, 1702, a devastating fire swept through Bryggen, destroying a large portion of the wooden structures that characterized the neighborhood. The fire prompted the local government to implement new building regulations, which led to the construction of more fire-resistant brick houses. This event was pivotal in shaping Bryggen's architectural landscape, as it transitioned from a predominantly wooden structure to a blend of brick and wood.

In 1979, Bryggen was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance and well-preserved medieval wooden buildings. The designation recognized Bryggen as an important cultural and historical site, showcasing the unique architectural style and urban planning of the Hanseatic period. Preservation efforts have since been implemented to maintain its historical integrity and promote its cultural heritage.

The late 20th century saw a cultural revival in Bryggen, with increased interest in its history and heritage. Art galleries, craft shops, and museums began to populate the area, transforming it into a vibrant cultural hub. The Fish Market, located nearby, became a popular tourist attraction, offering fresh seafood and local delicacies, further revitalizing the economy and cultural significance of Bryggen.

Today, Bryggen stands as a symbol of Bergen's rich history and cultural heritage. The area is a bustling tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world to explore its narrow alleyways, historical buildings, and museums. Events such as the Bergen International Festival celebrate the region's cultural vibrancy, while local artisans continue the traditions of craftsmanship that have thrived in Bryggen for centuries.

Bryggen is located in the heart of Bergen, easily accessible from various neighbourhoods. From Bergen Airport (Flesland), you can take the airport bus (Flybussen) directly to the city center, which takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, local buses and taxis are available. If you're arriving by train, Bergen Station is approximately 1.5 kilometers from Bryggen; you can reach it by a short walk or by taking the light rail (Bybanen) towards the city center.

Bryggen is a compact area best explored on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate its historic charm. Public transportation options include the Bybanen light rail, which connects Bryggen to other parts of Bergen. For longer distances, local buses are available, and taxis can be hailed easily throughout the city. Bicycles can be rented from various local providers, and there are designated bike lanes for safer travel.

Bryggen is generally a safe area for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. While most crime is non-violent, petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded tourist spots. Be cautious in less populated areas at night, especially around the waterfront. It’s advisable to keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or ambulance services in Norway. Local hospitals and clinics are available in Bergen for medical emergencies. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Pharmacies are also accessible throughout Bryggen for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable footwear for walking; the cobblestone streets can be uneven. Don't wear overly casual or beachwear outside of the waterfront areas. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting St. Mary's Church or any other religious sites. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hei' (Hi) and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and traditional dishes at one of the many restaurants. Don't engage in loud conversations in public spaces.

To experience Bryggen like a local, explore the side streets and lesser-known shops for unique handicrafts and local art. Visit the fish market early in the morning for the freshest catch and to see the local hustle. Engage with local artisans, many of whom are happy to share their stories and craftsmanship. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a coffee at one of Bryggen's quaint cafes along the waterfront, where you can soak in the atmosphere while people-watching.