Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
NARVIK, ORE & WAR
During WWII control of this strategic port was essential to the Nazi war machine, intent
upon halting iron supplies to the Allies and usurping the bounty. In April 1940 10 German
destroyers ploughed through a blizzard to enter the port and sink two Norwegian battle-
ships. The next day five British destroyers arrived and a fierce naval battle resulted in the
loss of two ships on each side. In May British, Norwegian, French and Polish troops dis-
embarked and took back the town.
The Nazis, however, didn't retreat and the town was decimated, as evidenced by the re-
mains of soldiers in the cemeteries and 34 ships of five nations (Norway, Britain, France,
the Netherlands and Germany) in the harbour. On 8 June 1940 the Allies surrendered
Narvik, which remained under German control until 8 May 1945.
All along the E6 in both directions from Narvik, signs to 'Narvik 1940' indicate roadside
memorials and information boards on key moments in the battle for Narvik and the
march of Norwegian General Carl Gustav Fleischer in a bid to recapture the town.
Sights
Ofoten Museum
MUSEUM
sion/child Nkr60/30/free;
10am-4pm Mon-Fri, noon-3pm Sat & Sun Jul-early Aug, 10am-3pm
Mon-Fri rest of year)
The museum tells of Narvik's farming, fishing, railway-building and ore trans-shipment
heritage. There's a rolling film about the Ofotbanen Railway and children will enjoy press-
ing the button that activates the model train. Linger too over the display case of Sami cos-
tumes and artefacts, and the collection of historic photos, contrasted with modern shots
taken from the same angles. To reach the museum, take the minor road beside the restored
building that served as Narvik's post office from 1888 to 1898.
Red Cross War Museum
MUSEUM
child Nkr75/25; 10am-9pm Mon-Sat, noon-6pm Sun mid-Jun-mid-Aug, 10am-4pm Mon-Sat &
noon-4pm Sun rest of year)
