Day 11 – Jugendstil in Alesund

Alesund is the largest fishing village in Norway since the foundation of the city in the early 19th century, but is mainly known for its architecture in Art Nouveau style. The center was largely reduced to ashes by a massive fire in 1904. Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany sent help immediately. He sent ships with construction materials. With help from across Europe, the inhabitants themselves and newly graduated Norwegian and German architects,  Alesund was rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style, more precisely, the German Jugendstil. In 1907 the work was finished.

Fortunately for us, the sun has meanwhile broken through the clouds and she stars in the sky. Despite the 12° it is still cold due to the polar wind. After breakfast we pick out warm clothes for a walk through the city. We follow a route set out by the tourist office. It brings us to the most beautiful places of Alesund, to houses with towers and romantically decorated facades.

The city is cut in two by the deep inner harbour and  the colored warehouses along the Brosundet form a beautiful whole.

At the church we admire the stained-glass windows that were an inauguration gift from Emperor Wilhellm II of Germany.

Right in the town center  is the Aksla, a giant hill from which you have a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding islands. But the 418 steps to reach the top are for us a few steps too many. From the upper deck of the ship, we also have beautiful view over the city.

After our walk we return to the ship for lunch. We spend the afternoon at the Crow's Nest to enjoy the views of the surrounding fjords.

At 5 pm, the Koningsdam sets sail, escorted by the marching band of Alesund on the quay and a sixty year old tugboat that gives the Koningsdam a spray baptism from the water. For this special occasion, and given the perfect weather conditions, the captain gives permission to open the bow located on our fifth deck. It is impressive seeing our giant depart from Aalesund with this great send-off.

After dinner there is a comedy act programmed in the World Stage Theatre. Magician and comedian Neal Austin lets us roar with laughter. Never knew that magic could be so funny. We now understand why he is the favorite of the British royal family.

After two sets in Billboard on Board we call it a day. We have just enough time to enjoy the views from our balcony and then off to bed. At the advice of our capain, we have to get up early tomorrow morning…