The day was sunny, so we set out for the tourist information center to buy the Bergen Card which we determined would save some money on the places/activities we had planned. On the way, we found the Bergen Market, a twice a month outdoor market with hot food being prepared, jams, jellies, honey and lots of fresh produce. We wandered around there for awhile not trying anything as we had just had breakfast at home.

On the other side of the water from where we’re staying is Bryggen, an area of restored buildings from the very beginnings of Bergen. (These brightly colored buildings are among the most iconic images of Bergen.) A lot of buildings in old Bergen (maybe all of them) have been destroyed by fire, but they’ve done a great job of recreating them. We were able to join an English tour of the area and learn abut the beginnings of Bergen and the Hanseatic League, basically a German enclave which emerged and grew after the Black Death occurred. In the 12 century, Bergen became an important trading center primarily of dried fish because of its deep harbors and location. Our guide was lively and funny and had some great stories about the early days.

When they built the town, they placed pavers in one direction to indicate where houses would be built and in another direction to show paths. The guide also told a tale abut the bump on the cod’s head (see photo of very large wooden cod) that was supposedly thought to bring good luck. Actually, the bump was later found to be caused by a malformation or disease. But in the olden days, they touched it or kissed it for good fortune.

Next, we walked to the funicular up to Mt. Floyen. This was in a different neighborhood and I realized (as at home) each area has its own flavor.It was just minutes up the mountain but exciting and offered beautiful views. There were several options for lunch including a restaurant, cafe, and a hot dog stand. We chose the cafeteria which was somewhat speedy. I had a piled high open-faced shrimp sandwich, and Betty had the soup bar offering three different kinds of soup to try along with bread. We were also treated to an impromptu choral concert by a neighboring table of men. I also opted to try the heart shaped waffle with jam toppings for dessert. (After all, we hadn’t tried the jam-topped pancake at the farmer’s market...) It was a very wise choice as it was delicious.

We poked around the shops a bit, had dinner in town and then on the way home stopped for some of that delicious gelato  we had had the night before.

Farmer’s market phots above, including some honey...

 The funicular - photos quite a bit out of order...