KODE Bergen: A Cultural Hub in the Fjord City

KODE Bergen, in the heart of Bergen, Norway's gateway to the Western fjords, is a prominent art institution. Situated around the serene Lille Lungegårdsvann lake, KODE comprises four distinct museum buildings and three historic composer residences. Its address is Rasmus Meyers allé 9, 5015 Bergen, easily accessible from the Byparken light rail station and Bergen train station. Bergen's rich cultural heritage, from its Hanseatic League past, profoundly influenced KODE's collections. The museum's surroundings, including the iconic Bryggen wharf, make it a central part of Bergen's cultural landscape.

The Genesis and Scope of KODE

KODE is a unified institution, rebranded in 2013, formed by the integration of several independent art museums. Its origins trace to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when wealthy Bergen citizens championed public art institutions, leading to extensive collections like the Rasmus Meyer Collection. KODE houses centuries of Norwegian and international art, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and a significant archive of musical heritage from composers like Edvard Grieg.

The complex includes four buildings (KODE 1, 2, 3, 4) and three composer residences (Grieg's Troldhaugen, Ole Bull's Lysøen, Harald Sæverud's Siljustøl). Each KODE building has a unique focus: KODE 1 for contemporary art, KODE 2 for Edvard Munch and Norwegian Golden Age art, KODE 3 for European art history, and KODE 4 for temporary exhibitions and diverse permanent collections.

Edvard Munch and the Rasmus Meyer Collection (KODE 2)

KODE 2 is a cornerstone for Norwegian Golden Age art, particularly for its collection of Edvard Munch's masterpieces. Key works include "Self-Portrait with Cigarette," "Melancholy," "The Kiss," and a version of "The Scream," offering profound insights into Munch's emotional depth. The collection also features Johan Christian Dahl's landscapes, Nikolai Astrup's woodcuts, and Harriet Backer's interior paintings, showcasing Norway's unique artistic contributions.

Edvard Grieg's Troldhaugen

The KODE experience extends to the musical legacy of Edvard Grieg (1843-1907). KODE manages Troldhaugen, Grieg's former home and museum, located about 8 km south of Bergen. This site includes his living quarters, studio, and tomb, offering essential insights into his musical world. The beautiful natural surroundings of Troldhaugen, which inspired Grieg's compositions, reveal how his music captured the lyricism and reverence for nature inherent in Norway.

Visitor Information

KODE Bergen Art Museum is centrally located and easily accessible. Admission for adults is 150 NOK, students 75 NOK; children under 18 enter for free. Bergen Card holders also enjoy free admission. A single ticket grants same-day access to all KODE venues. Additional fees may apply for special exhibitions, so checking the official website is recommended.

The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. From Wednesday to Friday, it operates from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and on Saturdays and Sundays, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Operating hours may be extended during the summer season. Nearby attractions include the Fish Market and Bryggen.