Oslo during World War II

This is a unique author tour that introduces you to the history of Oslo during World War II. The tour is led by the author of the photo booklet "Unretouched History. Oslo under Occupation 1940 - 1945". You will receive a copy of the booklet signed by the author as a gift.

The story of life in the city at the time of these tragic events in world history begins with a walk from the Royal Palace. How the palace was used during World War II, what it housed and other interesting facts about the royal court you can learn from your professional guide.

Then you will continue to June 7 Square. On the square stands the famous statue of the Norwegian King Haakon VII, who returned on June 7, 1945 from the exile he had to suffer due to the German occupation of Norway from 1940 to 1945.

Afterwards, you will view the University of Oslo, where you will hear about the tragic fate of the students at the beginning of the war and the closure of the university by the Nazis in 1943. During the closure of the university buildings, 1 250 students were arrested. 600 of them were later released, while 650 were sent to Buchenwald and Sennheim concentration camps in Germany for SS military training during the fall and winter months. 

Afterwards, you will walk down Karl-Johannes-Strasse. This street holds many memories of different periods of history, including the pages of World War II, when parades of enemy troops were held on it.

You will also learn more about the history of the Parliament Building, Grensen Street, the Ministry of Defence, the Cavalry Barracks and the Resistance Museum. All of these important sites are related in one way or another to the events to which this tour is dedicated.

The occupation of Norway by Nazi Germany during World War II began on April 9, 1940 with Operation Weseruebung. Conventional armed resistance to the German invasion ended on June 10, 1940, and Nazi Germany controlled Norway until the surrender of German forces in Europe on May 8-9, 1945. On this tour, you will learn about the nuances of Norway's development during this period, the most important figures in the Norwegian government, and the consequences of this sad page of history for the entire Norwegian people.

The tour ends at the harbour.