Stortinget (Norwegian Parliament)

The building reflects the ambitions of a young nation. Langlet's design is confidently classical — two-storey facade with a central portico, rusticated base, and restrained ornament — positioned to close the northward view from Eidsvolls plass and be visible from the Royal Palace 600 metres to the west. The parliament and the palace face each other along Karl Johans Gate, the physical arrangement embodying the constitutional relationship between the elected legislature and the constitutional monarchy.

Free guided tours of the interior are available on Saturdays year-round and daily in summer (late June to mid-August). The tour covers the main chamber (where 169 elected representatives debate and vote on Norwegian legislation), the committee rooms, the historic library, and several chambers decorated with art commissioned specifically for the building. The guided tour takes approximately 90 minutes and is conducted in excellent English.

The main chamber is designed with the horseshoe layout traditional to Nordic parliamentary architecture, with the President's chair at one end and the members' seats arranged around it without the confrontational division between government and opposition benches common in Westminster systems. The chamber ceiling and walls are decorated with murals representing Norwegian regions and seasons, commissioned from leading 19th-century Norwegian artists.

Standing in the visitors' gallery during an active session — when the chamber is full and debate is underway — is one of the more unusual experiences available in Oslo. The public gallery is open when the parliament is in session; check the Stortinget website for the current schedule. There is no charge for attending sessions or for the guided tours.