Stavanger

Stavanger
City
Coordinates: 58°58′N 5°44′E Fatal error: The format of the coordinate could not be determined. Parsing failed.
Country	Norway
County	Rogaland
Established	1125
Area
• Total	71 km2 (27 sq mi)
Population  (2021)
• Total	144,699
• Density	2,000/km2 (5,300/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC+1 (CET)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+2 (CEST)
Website	www.stavanger.kommune.no

Stavanger is a city and municipality in Norway. It is the administrative center of Rogaland county. Stavanger is the fourth largest city in Norway and is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and significant role in the oil industry.

History

Stavanger was officially established as a city in 1125, coinciding with the completion of the Stavanger Cathedral. The city has a long history as a center of commerce and trade, particularly during the Viking Age and the Middle Ages. In the 20th century, Stavanger became a hub for the Norwegian oil industry, earning it the nickname "Oil Capital of Norway."

Geography

Stavanger is located on the southwestern coast of Norway, bordered by the North Sea to the west. The city is characterized by its rugged coastline, numerous islands, and fjords. The Lysefjord and Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) are notable natural attractions in the region.

Economy

The economy of Stavanger is heavily influenced by the oil and gas industry. The city is home to several major oil companies, including Equinor. In addition to the energy sector, Stavanger has a diverse economy with strong maritime, agricultural, and technological industries.

Culture

Stavanger is known for its vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts several annual events, including the Stavanger International Chamber Music Festival, the Gladmat food festival, and the Nuart Festival. The Norwegian Petroleum Museum and the Stavanger Art Museum are popular cultural attractions.

Education

Stavanger is home to the University of Stavanger, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university is known for its research in petroleum engineering, social sciences, and health sciences.

Transportation

Stavanger is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The Stavanger Airport, Sola provides domestic and international flights. The city also has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and ferries. The Stavanger Station is a key railway hub, offering connections to other major cities in Norway.

Notable People

• Alexander Kielland - Author and one of the most famous Norwegian writers.
• Arne Rettedal - Politician and former mayor of Stavanger.
• Tore Renberg - Contemporary author and playwright.

Sister Cities

Stavanger has several sister cities, including:

• Aberdeen, Scotland
• Houston, United States
• Esbjerg, Denmark

See Also

• Norwegian Oil Industry
• Rogaland
• University of Stavanger
• Stavanger Cathedral

External Links

• Official website of Stavanger