Royal Palace, Oslo

Built in the first half of the nineteenth century as a residence for the Swedish-Norwegian monarch, this neoclassical palace crowns a low hill at the head of Oslo's main boulevard. It remains the official residence of the Norwegian royal family and the venue for state functions and the daily changing of the guard. The surrounding park is open year-round, while guided summer tours grant access to the ballroom and reception halls. An equestrian statue of King Karl Johan stands before the facade, anchoring the approach up Karl Johans gate.