Bergen is a city located in the west of Norway, where the North and Norwegian Seas meet. From the 13th century it was the formal capital of the country and the most important port of international importance. The trade in marine fish, wood, animal skins and grain made Bergen really wealthy and politically important. The city has preserved the unique architecture of the old town from its golden era, with characteristic high and narrow wooden houses, which face the wharf. It is also worth visiting the Bergenhus fortress and adjoining gardens as well as numerous museums and galleries.