Røros

The colourful village that earned its place as a UNESCO Heritage Site

The small mountain village of Røros is well worth a visit, featuring characteristic wooden buildings from a bygone era.

This settlement sprang to life in 1644 with the establishment of a copper mine in the nearby mountains. Although the local mining industry saw its last days in the late 1970s, the village managed to preserve its 17th and 18th century cottages, village shops and beautiful baroque church. It was these efforts that earned the village a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Take a stroll through 300 years of mining history with a guided tour of the Olavsgruva Mine, 500 metres (1640 feet) inside the mountain and 50 metres (164 feet) below the surface. Or join an above-ground walking tour to learn how people lived and worked here in the past. The Røros Museum is also well worth a visit, featuring old workmen’s homes and exhibits about the copper mines and smelting process.

Røros has a lively creative community known for its local handcrafts. With a high concentration of artists and craftsmen living here, you’ll also find several charming shops and interesting workshops, perfect for picking up an authentic souvenir.