Post by Ella
Present day Bergen, second largest city in Norway, population not quite 300,000, seems dominated by the University and tourists. The University of Bergen (one of six Universities located here) is well known as a marine research institution with 17,000 students. Cruise ships regularly dock here bringing thousands of tourists, while the train brings hundreds of tourists through the mountain forests and snow fields.
The Bryggen area (the old quays) where trading started back around 1070) are a World Heritage site.
Bergen is at 60° latitude. Similar to parts of Alaska, and the Shetland Islands in Scotland (which I mention because you know, the series Shetland).
The city has a young, vibrant feel. Half modern high rises and half traditional wooden houses (either original or renovated) set on cobble stone streets.
I recognize Shetland because both Rebel (passed on 10/16/15) and Ben (2 1/2), our two Shetland Sheepdogs’ ancestry is from Shetland Scotland area.
Somehow I never thought of the relationship between Shetland dogs and Shetland in Scotland but that makes total sense.