HISTORY

Norway is the north western state of a group of four countries known under the name of Scandinavia (from the Sanskrit word “skanda” meaning “war”). As a matter of fact, the Norwegian Vikings were great travelers who colonized Iceland and Greenland. From there, they moved further west and discovered northern America 500 years before Christopher Columbus. They also traveled to England & Ireland and all around Europe all the way to Constantinople, in present Turkey.

After the unification of most of the country around year 875 by Harald the Blond, Norway is converted to Christianity by Saint Olav who dies in the battle of Stiklestad and becomes a national hero (Oslo is founded in 1048 by his half-brother). Margaret of Denmark, after the passing away of her father and of her husband, the king of Norway, becomes the regent of both countries and binds the fate of the two countries till 1814. In 1660 Norway, along with Denmark becomes an absolute monarchy. After being attached to Sweden in 1814, yet still receiving its own constitution, Norway becomes fully independent in 1905 by referendum. Norwegian women acquire the voting right in 1913.

After having courageously fought Hitler’s troops during the second world war (famous battle of the “heavy water” in Rjukan –Telemark), Norway found access to prosperity through the discovery of oil fields off shore. In this way, Norway felt it didn’t need to become part of the European Community to promote its own economic development…

From Edward Munch to Edward Grieg, “Edward Quality Services & Limousines” will make you discover the Scandinavian soul through the expertise of its local drivers. From the natural beauty of its fjords to the historical sites registered by UNESCO in the world patrimony (such as the wooden neighborhood of Bryggen in Bergen, the old capital), you will be conquered and ready for a healthy life style, like our Norwegian friends, at least in the summertime…!