In the middle of this 1808 cemetery lies reslunden, where 40 prominent Norwegian men and women are buried. The initiative for this particular section was taken in 1903, so there are many famous people from before then buried elsewhere in the churchyard, including poets, writers and artists. A guide to their graves exists (in Norwegian only). Check out the website to know more.
Inspired by the Norwegian wilderness, the Oslo Opera House is a marvel of modern architecture and the home of the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet. The glass facade of the playhouse is embraced by a marble roof that swoops down to its base in a graceful arch, inviting the audience to take a walk on the roof and drink in sweeping views of the waterfront. Inside, the spacious hall is a tapestry of textures and patterns designed by local artists; a visual and tactile experience that mimics the country's natural wonders. The concert hall itself is illuminated by a moon-like chandelier of hand-cast glass bars, beneath which sprawls a horseshoe chamber replete in wood. On stage, the Oslo Opera House hosts a diverse program of the performing arts, showcasing classical performances alongside contemporary renditions by some of the world's best-known artists. A cultural and artistic pearl, the Oslo Opera House is a contemporary wonder that was built to be touched by the masses.
Probably the most famous venue to be associated with the University of Oslo, Universitetets Aula plays host to numerous cultural events. Situated in the middle building of the campus, this concert hall has a square in front of it, which is an event venue in its own right. The hall is known for the 11 Edvard Munch oil paintings that adorn its walls. The concert hall has played host to performers like Eduard Kunz and the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra.
Presently a scenic wildlife preserve, Østensjøvannet is a beautiful lake known for its extensive species of birds. More than 200 bird species have been spotted close to the lake. Østensjøvannet also enjoys a lot of historical importance as various excavations here have revealed that the region was occupied since the stone age. Burial tombs from Viking Age have also been unearthed here. Though fishing is not allowed during summers, Østensjøvannet remains a popular spot for ice-fishing.
Norsk Folkemuseum, the open-air museum that has been giving visitors a peek into a life-sized past for over a century, contains more than 150 authentic buildings from different regions. The buildings date from as far back as medieval times, including the 13th-century Gol Stave Church. The permanent exhibition features sections on handicrafts, traditional clothing and the culture of the Sami people. A souvenir shop, cafe and restaurant are located on the grounds.
The former studio of sculptor Gustav Vigeland's lesser-known brother, Emanuel, is now a combined museum and mausoleum. The windowless, church-like room plays tricks on your eyes when you enter, but after a few minutes an impressive mural covering the walls and ceiling will unravel, a truly awe-inspiring representation of entire human life.