Northern Norway » Hamsunsenteret

The Knut Hamsun Centre
Experience world-renowned, award-winning architecture; explore an immensely controversial Nobel Prize-winning authorship – and the spectacular scenery that inspired it.

Knut Hamsun
The author Knut Hamsun (1859-1952) grew up in Hamarøy, and Nordland serves as a setting for many of his stories. Knut Hamsun is renowned for ingenious storytelling and ambivalent character-portraits, and the young Hamsun is regarded by many as an early modernist. Several of Knut Hamsun’s books belong in the world literary canon; in 1920 he was awarded the Nobel Prize in literature for the novel Growth of the Soil (1917).

Architecture
The Knut Hamsun Centre is designed by the famous American architect Steven Holl. The main building – a tall, dark, angular tower – can be seen as an interpretation of Knut Hamsun and his literary characters. Steven Holl conceptualizes the building as “a body – battleground of invisible forces”. Holl was heavily inspired by Hamsun’s writing, especially the early works Hunger (1890) and Mysteries (1892).

The design has generated considerable attention and debate, and the Knut Hamsun Centre has received several prestigious national and international architecture awards.

The Exhibition
As you move through the building you will be entertained and challenged by nine stations that shed light on different parts Knut Hamsun’s life and authorship. There are stimuli for both heart and mind, and all your senses will be engaged.

Tours and other services
The Knut Hamsun Centre’s experienced guides offer introductions to the exhibition, architectural walks through the building, and adventure trails – guided literary hikes on scenic paths through Hamsun’s realm. In the auditorium you may attend lectures or film screenings, and the Centre can also facilitate meetings and conferences. For additional information or to make a request, please see the website or send an e-mail.

Café, bookstore and gift shop
The shop offers a wide selection of books by and about Knut Hamsun, as well as Hamsun-related gift articles. Enjoy tasty local produce and a panorama view in the café.