Holmenkollen Ski Jump

The Holmenkollen Ski Jump towers over the city of Oslo, and has played a vital part in the local community for around 120 years. The first ski jumping competition took place at this site in 1892, with 12,000 onlookers. In the early years of competition, the jump was much simpler than today, being composed of a natural hill with a takeoff ramp made from snow and tree branches.

Gradually, the jump was developed, growing taller through the years. The first major event to take place at the jump was the 1952 Winter Olympics, at which point the height of the tower truly took off. It was further updated following an architectural competition in 2011, and the tower is much unchanged since the winner’s construction was manufactured.

The ski jump has a viewing platform with phenomenal views across the surrounding area. It also houses the world’s oldest ski museum, with interesting artifacts on winter sports and polar exploration. One of the most interesting exhibits contains scale models of the jump—so interesting to see how much it has grown over the years. Unless you are an experienced ski jumper, you won’t be able to use the jump for its intended purpose. However, when you see it in the flesh you will realize how brave you would need to be to do so!