Bogstad Gård: A Historical Adventure in the Heart of Oslo
Bogstad Gård, beautifully situated by Bogstadvannet and at the entrance to Sørkedalen, is a short journey from the center of Oslo and a "must see" for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
This remarkable place was owned by the Ankers family and later by the Løvenskiolds from 1649 to 1955, before it was converted into a public museum that tells about its rich and varied history.
The architecture of the main building, built between 1760 and 1780, is an outstanding example of classicist style, characteristic of the country's upper social class in the period. Bogstad was not only a residence, but also a witness to Norway's agrarian history, with roots that go back to prehistoric times and through medieval agrarian society.
After the Black Death in 1349 had left the farm desolate, it was revitalized as a tenant estate under Hovedøya monastery and later as property of the crown after the Reformation. In 1649, Morten Lauritzen, known as "Ugle", took over ownership and established Bogstad as a significant agricultural and forestry area. This became the basis for a profitable sawmill and timber business that flourished during the 17th century.
Peder Anker, who took over the farm in 1772, is one of the most prominent figures in Bogstad's history. He made Bogstad his permanent home and transformed it into a center for Norwegian political and social activity. In 1814, a pivotal year in Norwegian history when Norway got its constitution and seceded from the union with Denmark, Bogstad served as one of the central arenas for political meetings.
It was here that Crown Prince Karl Johan offered Peder Anker the role of Norway's first prime minister, a position Anker held with great skill.
Bogstad was also a center for agricultural innovation. The extensive park, known for its ancient trees, picturesque paths, and bridges, contains a rich kitchen garden where a variety of vegetables are grown in the summer, as well as pasture for sheep and cows. These elements reflect the farm as a living image of Norwegian agricultural tradition.
With excellent transport and parking options, it is easy for visitors to experience this unique cultural and historical site.
With an administration now under the Norwegian Folk Museum and ownership by Bogstad Stiftelse, Bogstad Gård continues to preserve and pass on its rich history to future generations, and stands as a testimony to Norway's cultural heritage and the enduring value of its agrarian history.
Sisters Karen, Lucy and Mimi Egeberg in front of the porch steps at Bogstad farm. Photographed 1914. It was a big piece of history The Norwegian Folk Museum and Oslo municipality took over in 1954.
The heirs Lucy Høegh, Mimi Eek and Karen Aall clearly wanted to preserve both house and property for the future. And that's how it has turned out. - It really was a wonderful gift. One of the very best that has been given, I mean. Think, with all that is in here too, it's fantastic, says guide and caretaker Ronni Keil Michelsen, as he unlocks the door to the main house. There is a scent of bygone times inside the stately house, and it's almost as if you still can hear the music from the ballroom.
A tour of the main house takes visitors on a journey through the ages. They can admire authentic interiors from different eras, including Rococo, Empire and more modern styles from the 20th century. Each room tells its own story, from the magnificent Blue Room, to the intimate library where important political discussions may have taken place.
After an educational tour, visitors can head to Cafe Grevinnen, which is housed in the farm's former stables. The cafe is open every day and offers a pleasant respite with a selection of home-baked cakes, light lunch dishes and hot drinks.
With its relaxed atmosphere and views over the farms' well-maintained surroundings, it is the perfect end to a visit to Bogstad Gård.
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