Bodø, the administrative centre of the northern Norwegian province of Nordland, is located about 80 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. The geographical location shapes the nature and life of the city. Bodø is surrounded by spectacular coastal scenery: the city opens onto the Vestfjord, with high mountains rising behind it. Nearby is the Saltstraumen, the strongest tidal current in the world.
Bodø - surrounded by spectacular scenery
Due to its location, Bodø experiences the midnight sun in summer, while in winter the long polar nights often cause the Aurora Borealis, the northern lights, to dance in the sky. The city has a population of around 54.000 and combines the flair of a modern, growing city with proximity to arctic landscapes.
Bodø - Glasshuset EKZ
Historical
Bodø's history does not go back very far. Norwegian fishermen founded the town in 1816 as a trading post to compete with Bergen. Thanks to the presence of huge shoals of herring in the 1860s and 1870s, Bodø was considered one of the fastest developing places in Norway at that time. Tourism contributed to the growth, not least after the German Emperor Wilhelm II made the town known during his visits to Norway.
The turning point came during the Second World War. In May 1940, Bodø was almost completely destroyed by German bombers. The city was rebuilt in the modern, sober style of the post-war period. This new beginning still shapes the appearance of the districts today.
Bodø - Panorama
Bodø's significance in the present
Today, Bodø is a notable administrative, economic and cultural centre in northern Norway. As the administrative centre of Nordland County, Bodø plays a central role in regional affairs. In addition, more than 30 authorities and similar institutions have offices in Bodø.
Bodø - City Hall complex
The city's economic foundations are diverse: traditionally, fishing plays an important role. The port is one of the most important fishing ports in the country. Other mainstays are the service industry, transport and tourism. The energy sector is a growth driver. In particular, the wind power and renewable energy business is growing continuously.
Bodø has grown in importance culturally in recent years. In 2024, Bodø will be the first city north of the Arctic Circle to be named "European Capital of Culture". Numerous cultural events dominate the regional art and music scene and attract international artists and tourists. The modern cultural center "Stormen Kulturhus" hosts concerts, exhibitions, ballet and theater performances.
Bodø - Konserthus
Bodø science center
Education and research play a central role in Bodø. The city is home to Nord University, which was founded in 2015 through the merger of three universities. It is divided into five faculties and specializes in subjects such as marine research, economics and management. Scientists here work on topics that are particularly important for the Arctic region, such as environmental research, fisheries and sustainable energy production. The city's scientific potential is constantly growing, making Bodø a center for research in northern Norway.
Transportation
Despite its location in the far north, Bodø is well connected by transport. The city is the end point of the Nordlandsbanen, a railway line that runs from the 700 km south of Trondheim to the Arctic region. Bodø Provincial Airport offers regular connections to major Norwegian cities such as Oslo, Bergen and Tromsø as well as to some international destinations. In addition, Bodø is a hub for ferry connections along the Norwegian coast. The Havila and Hurtigruten ships connect Bodø daily with other coastal towns, both in the north and the south.
Bodø berths of the Hurtigruten and cruise ships
cruise destination Bodø
In recent years, Bodø has also established itself as a destination for cruise ships. In 2024, just over 30 passenger ships were registered. Due to its spectacular scenery and proximity to the Lofoten and the Saltstraumen as well as arctic natural phenomena such as the Northern Lights, the city is a destination for tourists from all over the world. The arrival of international cruise ships brings new impetus to tourism and the local economy. Cruise passengers appreciate the unique mix of nature experiences, culture and history that Bodø offers.
Overall, Bodø is a dynamic city that combines its historical and geographical location with modern developments in culture, science and business. As the European Capital of Culture in 2024, Bodø will be in the international spotlight without neglecting its Nordic charm and close connection to nature.
October 2024