Bergen is a Norwegian city, which is called the Gateway to the Fjords, located on the North and Norwegian Seas. It was established as early as in the 11th century and 200 years later – thanks to its location and the growth of the port – the city gained considerable significance in international trade. From the 14th to 16th century Bergen was the seat of the German trading post of the Hanseatic League. Wooden houses of merchants have been the landmark of the city since that time. They are situated mostly in the district of Bryggen, the name of which means “quay”. Historic two-storey residential buildings situated in the district adjoin one another, creating a terrace of charming houses facing the water. Their relatively narrow facades are painted in different colors and have slanting roofs, due to which they acquire slightly magical look. Today the Hanseatic merchant houses have been converted into cafes, pubs and souvenir shops.
