Stortinget

I pass Stortinget often, watching school groups gather by the lion statues while commuters cut across Karl Johans gate. The building is less flashy than the Opera, but it anchors Oslo’s civic story. If you want the history woven into your walk, start the StoryHunt Oslo audiowalk at Central Station and let it narrate your approach to Parliament.

What is the story behind Stortinget?

Completed in 1866, Stortinget was designed by Emil Victor Langlet after a spirited architectural competition. Its yellow brick and semicircular chamber reflect mid-19th century ideas of transparent governance. The institution it houses dates to 1814, when Norway adopted its constitution at Eidsvoll. Inside, murals and woodwork celebrate national symbols and lawmaking in a practical, Nordic key.

Tip: Queue up StoryHunt for on-the-spot context as you circle the façade.

What is the meaning of Stortinget?

In Norwegian, Stortinget means the great assembly. The word ting refers to an assembly or council, used since Viking-age things that met to settle disputes and make laws. The definite form, Stortinget, is what you will hear in Oslo and see on signs. The building and the institution share the name, which can cause mild confusion for first-timers.

• “stor” = great or grand
• “ting” = assembly or meeting
• “Stortinget” = The Great Assembly

What is Storting in English?

In English you will see two forms: The Storting, which keeps the Norwegian name, and the Norwegian Parliament, which explains the function. Both are correct. In media and on official pages, The Storting is common when discussing procedure or roles, while Norwegian Parliament is used for general audiences and travel information.

• Use The Storting for institutional references
• Use Norwegian Parliament for visitor guides

Who is the leader of the Storting?

The chamber elects a President of the Storting, who presides over debates, represents the assembly, and chairs the Presidium with vice presidents. Parties nominate members, and the full assembly votes at the start of a parliamentary term. The officeholder can change mid-term, so check the official Stortinget website for the current president and vice presidents before you visit.

• Presides over plenary sessions
• Represents Stortinget domestically and abroad
• Supported by vice presidents in the Presidium

What type of government does Norway have?

Norway is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The monarch is head of state, while the government is led by a prime minister who must retain the confidence of Stortinget. Elections use proportional representation in multi-member districts with levelling seats to improve nationwide proportionality. Courts are independent, and ministries are accountable to Parliament.

• Constitutional monarchy, parliamentary democracy
• Proportional representation and coalition politics
• Government accountable to Stortinget

Can you visit Stortinget?

Yes, public tours are offered, often free, particularly in summer and on select Saturdays, and school groups visit year-round. Capacity is limited, security screening applies, and some dates are closed during sessions or official events. Photography is usually allowed in designated areas. I have joined a summer tour, and the chamber view alone made the queue worth it.

• Check the official calendar and pre-book when offered
• Bring photo ID for security screening
• Allow time for bag checks and lockers

Explore with context: pair your tour with the StoryHunt audiowalk for a smooth, story-rich visit.

How long does it take to see Stortinget?

An exterior look with photos takes 10 to 15 minutes, especially if you linger with the lions. Guided interior visits run about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on questions and access. If you are building a compact city loop, plan one hour total here, then continue along Karl Johans gate toward the Palace or down to the waterfront for wider views.

How to get to Stortinget from Oslo Central Station?

From Oslo S, walk 10 to 15 minutes up Karl Johans gate. Stortinget sits halfway to the Royal Palace, opposite the National Theatre direction. Trams and the T-Bane stop at Stortinget and Nationaltheatret if you prefer transit. I like the walk, because it introduces the city at eye level before you step into Norway’s political heart.

• Walk: Oslo S, Karl Johans gate, Stortinget
• T-Bane and trams: Stortinget or Nationaltheatret stops
• Bike: roll then park off Karl Johans gate

Start the StoryHunt audiowalk at Oslo S and let it guide you straight to Stortinget with minimal screen time.

Is it worth seeing Stortinget?

Yes, with expectations set. The façade is restrained, and interior access depends on tour schedules, which can be scarce outside peak season. Signage outdoors is minimal. The payoff is strong civic storytelling, a handsome chamber, and perfect central location. If you value understanding how Norway works, it earns a spot on your list, especially with audio guidance to fill gaps.

Make Stortinget your mid-route anchor on StoryHunt’s immersive Oslo audiowalk and let the politics make sense as you stroll.

What else is nearby Stortinget?

You are surrounded by headline sights in Oslo, all easy on foot and included on the StoryHunt route. Use Stortinget as your pivot, then fan out to art, monarchy, and the fjord. This cluster makes Oslo a superb walking city, with civic life, culture, and views in one compact sweep.

• The Royal Palace, gardens and the daily guard change
• The National Theater, classic stage and lively square
• Oslo City Hall, Nobel Peace Prize venue and murals
• The Opera House, roof walk with harbor panoramas

Finish strong: continue your exploration with StoryHunt’s audiowalk for a sustainable, story-rich day in Oslo.