Molde history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Molde is rooted in the Middle Ages, when a small settlement emerged on the shores of the Romsdalsfjord. The city's name is derived from the Old Norse word Moldar, which translates as "fertile soil" or "rich earth," indicating the abundance of the local lands.

For a long time, Molde existed as a trading post subordinate to Trondheim. A significant milestone in its history was receiving official trading city status (kjøpstad), which was granted by King Christian VI in 1742.

Key Factors of Development

The city's development was facilitated by a successful combination of geographical and economic circumstances:

• Geography and Navigation: Its location on a wind-sheltered shore of a deep-water fjord created ideal conditions for establishing a port. This site served as a natural harbour for ships.
• Timber Trade: In the 17th and 18th centuries, timber exports became the main engine of the economy. Timber from the surroundings of Molde was actively exported to Europe, especially to England and the Netherlands, attracting capital and new residents.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Thanks to the flourishing timber trade, a wealthy merchant class formed in Molde. This contributed to the early development of urban infrastructure and culture, distinguishing it from the simple fishing villages of the region.

Already in the early stages of its formation, another feature of the city became apparent — its amazing microclimate. The fertile soil, which gave the city its name, allowed for the cultivation of lush gardens, which subsequently secured Molde the poetic nickname "The Town of Roses".

Major Historical Milestones

• 1614 — Molde receives "ladested" status, becoming an official trading port subordinate to Trondheim.
• 1742 — King Christian VI signs a charter granting Molde the full rights of an independent trading city.
• Late 19th Century — The city gains fame as an international resort, attracting European nobility and Kaiser Wilhelm II with its fjords and rose gardens.
• 1916 — A major fire destroys a significant part of the historic wooden buildings on the eastern bank of the Moldeelva River.
• April 1940 — Following the German invasion, King Haakon VII and the Norwegian government temporarily govern the country from Molde, making the city the de facto capital.
• April–May 1940 — German aviation subjects the city to massive bombing raids, destroying the city centre and the old church.
• 1957 — The construction and consecration of the new Molde Cathedral is completed, becoming a symbol of post-war revival.
• 1961 — The first International Jazz Festival (Moldejazz) takes place, which would later become one of the oldest in Europe.
• 1964 — The municipality's territory increases significantly due to an administrative merger with the neighbouring municipalities of Bolsøy and parts of Veøy.
• 1989 — The opening of the famous Atlantic Ocean Road near the city significantly boosts tourist flow to the region.
• 2011 — The local football club "Molde" becomes the champion of Norway for the first time in its history, strengthening the city's sporting prestige.

Stages of Development and Transformation

The history of Molde is a journey from a small timber export port to the administrative and cultural centre of the Møre og Romsdal region. The city has undergone several radical transformations that have shaped its modern appearance and economy.

• Economic Independence (1742). Obtaining trading city status became the foundation for economic growth. This allowed local merchants to conduct direct trade with foreign countries without the mediation of Trondheim, leading to the formation of a wealthy class and the construction of the first significant urban estates.
• Birth of a Tourism Brand (Late 19th Century). During this period, the city reoriented itself towards hosting the European elite. The construction of hotels and the development of landscape gardening solidified Molde's status as the "Town of Roses". Tourism became an important source of income, and the urban environment was enriched with well-groomed avenues and Swiss-style villas.
• Architectural Rebirth (1940–1950s). The destruction of World War II forced the city to completely revise its urban plan. Old wooden buildings were replaced by functionalism and wide streets. The symbol of this stage was the construction of the new cathedral and city hall, defining the modern silhouette of the centre.
• Cultural Expansion (since 1961). The launch of the Moldejazz festival turned a provincial town into a world-class attraction. This event not only stimulated the development of the service and hospitality sectors but also forever changed Molde's image, making it the cultural capital of the region.
• Administrative Consolidation (1964). The merger with neighbouring municipalities significantly increased the city's area and population. This cemented Molde's role as the undisputed administrative centre of the county, concentrating government institutions, hospitals, and educational establishments.
• Industrialisation and Education (Late 20th — Early 21st Century). The opening of Molde University College and the development of service companies catering to the oil and gas sector diversified the economy. The city became a hub of knowledge and logistics, moving away from a purely trade and tourism specialisation.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The modern architectural landscape of Molde is the result of massive reconstruction following the destruction of 1940. The city, once consisting of ancient wooden structures, today presents an interesting example of post-war Norwegian planning, harmoniously complemented by bold contemporary projects on the waterfront.

Main Architectural Styles and Eras

The development of the city can be clearly divided into three key stages: the lost wooden architecture, the reconstruction period (functionalism), and the modern era of iconic structures.

• Wooden Architecture and Swiss Style (19th – Early 20th Century).

  Before World War II, Molde was built up with picturesque wooden houses, thanks to which it gained fame as the "Town of Roses". Although most of the historic centre burned down, individual gems of that era have survived in the city. A striking example is the Châteauet estate, built in 1918. This building, with elements of Neo-Baroque and Swiss style, is a reminder of the city's resort past.

• Post-War Functionalism (1940s – 1960s).

  The main bulk of the centre's buildings (Storgata street) was formed in the style of restrained Scandinavian functionalism. This period is characterised by:

  • Laconic forms and straight lines.
  • The use of concrete, brick, and light plaster.
  • Wide streets designed with fire safety and sunlight requirements in mind.

  The main dominant feature of this style became Molde Cathedral (Molde domkirke), consecrated in 1957. Architect Finn Bryn created a monumental building with a detached bell tower, combining strict forms with sacred solemnity.

• Brutalism and Modernism (1960s).

  In 1966, the construction of Molde City Hall was completed. The building is made of concrete and natural stone (slate), referencing the aesthetics of brutalism. The severity of the architecture is softened by the famous rose garden planted on the building's roof.

• Contemporary Architecture and High-Tech (since the 1990s).

  In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the city turned its face to the fjord, transforming the coastline into a zone of modern urbanism.

  • Scandic Seilet (2002): A hotel in the shape of a giant sail, which has become the new calling card of the city. The glass and granite building, looming over the water, is a striking example of postmodernism and high-tech architecture.
  • Plassen Cultural Centre (2012): A project by the Danish firm 3XN. The building is distinguished by deconstructivist forms, where the roof seamlessly transitions into a wide staircase-square connecting the upper and lower parts of the city.
  • Aker Stadion: A modern sports arena, successfully integrated into the coastal landscape thanks to its smooth lines and use of glass.

Urban Planning Features

The layout of Molde is linear and subordinate to the terrain: the city stretches along the shore of the Romsdalsfjord at the foot of the hills. The main shopping street, Storgata, runs parallel to the sea, preserving the structure established during the city's restoration. Modern projects, such as the promenade, are designed to connect the historic centre with the water, creating a unified walking space.

Notable People of Molde

Molde has become the home and source of inspiration for many famous Norwegians — from Nobel Prize laureates to world football stars. These people have made a significant contribution to culture, politics, and sport, bringing fame to the "Town of Roses" far beyond its borders.

• Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson (1832–1910)
  Writer, poet, Nobel Prize laureate in Literature
  One of the "four great" Norwegian writers spent his school years in Molde. It was here that he began writing poetry, inspired by the beauty of the fjord and mountains. Bjørnson often spoke warmly of the city, calling it the place where his poetic talent awakened. One of the main streets is named in his honour, and a monument has been erected.
• Alexander Kielland (1849–1906)
  Realist writer and statesman
  An outstanding novelist, also one of the "four greats", served as the governor (amtmann) of the Romsdal region with his residence in Molde. In the last years of his life, he governed the county, dealing with administrative affairs and the development of the region. His stay in the city left a mark on local administrative history.
• Nini Roll Anker (1873–1942)
  Writer and playwright
  A native of Molde, she became one of the most significant Norwegian female writers of the first half of the 20th century. In her works, she frequently raised issues of women's rights and pacifism. The house where she was born (the Châteauet estate) remains one of the city's architectural gems to this day.
• Kurt Schwitters (1887–1948)
  Artist, poet, master of collage
  The German Dadaist and art innovator found refuge in the vicinity of Molde. In the 1930s, he lived on the island of Hjertøya in the fjord opposite the city, escaping persecution by the Nazi regime. His stone hut and the interiors created on the island are today an important part of the region's cultural heritage.
• Kjell Magne Bondevik (born 1947)
  Politician, former Prime Minister of Norway
  A native of Molde who served as the country's Prime Minister twice. He began his political career in local government. Bondevik has always emphasised his connection to his hometown and frequently attends matches of the local football club.
• Jo Nesbø (born 1960)
  Writer, musician, economist
  The world-famous author of the Harry Hole detective novels grew up in Molde. Before his writing career, he played football for the youth team of "Molde" club and even dreamed of a professional sports career. The city is often mentioned in his work and the songs of his band, Di Derre.
• Ole Gunnar Solskjær (born 1973)
  Footballer and manager
  Although born in neighbouring Kristiansund, his name is inextricably linked with Molde. It was here that he became a star of Norwegian football before moving to Manchester United. Later, he returned as the head coach of Molde FK, leading the team to its first-ever championship titles, which made him a living legend of the city.