The Arctic Cathedral stands out prominently at the end of Tromsø Bridge, clearly visible from the centre of the town and set against the background of the 1,238-metre Tromsdalstind peak. Its proper name is the Tromsdalen Church, but its striking shape and daring architecture earned it the name Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen) soon after it opened in 1965.
Strip lights have been positioned between the 11 lamella panels that make up the walls, and when darkness falls the unusual outline of the church is clearly visible from all parts of Tromsø. The chandeliers of Czech crystal are inspired by icicles and contribute to the building’s distinctively cool look.
The eastern wall behind the altar is decorated with one of the largest, most monumental glass mosaics in Europe. The “Return of Christ” mosaic is the work of Norwegian painter and glass designer Victor Sparre. The mosaic pieces are 3 cm thick and the density of the colours varies depending on the direction and intensity of the sun.
Tromsø is a surprising city with a highly skilled population and a very strong competency profile in numerous industries including the maritime sector, oil and gas exploration, information technology, space and satellites, biotechnology and medicine. It is home to the world's northernmost university, UiT.
Visitors will also find art, history, good food and an infamous nightlife in a bustling, tiny city of 77,000 people, surrounded by spectacular scenery that is visible from everywhere in town. The city’s residents display the directness and wry humour for which northern Norwegians are famous.
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