Posebyen

Kristiansand


The Kristiansand Posebyen takes in most of the 14 blocks at the northern end of the town's characteristic kvadraturen (square grid pattern of streets). It's worth taking a slow stroll around this pretty quarter; its name was given by French soldiers who came to reposer here (it's French for 'relax').

A scale model (with buildings around 1m high) of the city as it appeared when designed by Christian IV is on view at Vest-Agder Folk Museum. The annual Kristiansand guide, published by the tourist office, includes a good section called 'A Stroll through Posebyen' to guide your wandering. The most well-preserved buildings include Bentsens Hus, which dates from 1855, the former post office dating from 1695 and Gyldenløves gate 56 (1802).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Kristiansand attractions

4. Sørlandets Kunstmuseum

0.21 MILES

This exceptional regional art museum focuses on both fine and craft-based practices, and the collection includes some particularly strong contemporary…

5. Kristiansand Cathedral

0.24 MILES

Built in 1884 in late Gothic style, the Kristiansand Cathedral, with seating for 1800 people, is Norway's third-largest church.

6. Kristiansand Kunsthall

0.29 MILES

Shows change seasonally, but are usually high-concept, challenging surveys well worth a browse. It's a stunning space, with a rare elevated town outlook…

7. Christiansholm Fortress

0.44 MILES

Strandpromenaden's hulking centrepiece is the distinctive Christiansholm Fortress. Built by royal decree between 1662 and 1672 to keep watch over the…