Stavanger Maps

Stavanger is a city and municipality in southwestern Norway, serving as the administrative center of Rogaland county. With a population of approximately 148,000 people (2023), it stands as Norway's fourth-largest urban area. The city's history dates back to 1125 when the Stavanger Cathedral was completed, marking the beginning of its significant role in Norwegian history.

The city's economy has evolved dramatically over the centuries. Initially a fishing and shipbuilding center, Stavanger transformed into Norway's oil capital after the discovery of petroleum in the North Sea in 1969. The city now hosts numerous international oil and energy companies, including the state-owned Equinor (formerly Statoil). The Norwegian Petroleum Museum showcases this vital aspect of the city's heritage and current economy.

Stavanger's historic center features one of Northern Europe's largest collections of wooden buildings, with 173 preserved structures dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. The Old Stavanger district (Gamle Stavanger) consists of 173 white wooden houses built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, representing some of the best-preserved wooden house settlements in Europe.

The city is also known for its vibrant cultural scene and numerous festivals. The annual Gladmat Festival, Norway's leading food festival, attracts over 250,000 visitors each year. Stavanger is home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Stavanger, which has approximately 12,000 students.

Notable landmarks include the Sverd i fjell (Swords in Rock), a commemorative monument consisting of three giant bronze swords planted in the rock, marking the historic Battle of Hafrsfjord in 872. The city also features the Stavanger Art Museum, housing significant collections of Norwegian and international art, and the Norwegian Canning Museum, which tells the story of the city's once-thriving canning industry. The region surrounding Stavanger offers natural attractions such as the famous Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and Kjeragbolten, making it a popular base for outdoor tourism and hiking adventures.