Oslo » Gamle Logen

Gamle Logen was originally built for the Masonic society as a banquet and concert hall in 1836, and though without the Masons , it still functions as one! At the prime of a nation awakening and liberating itself from foreign govern, Count Wedel Jarlsberg along with the Freemasons set a goal to build a European looking grand hall and ballroom in the heart of Oslo. The inauguration took place in 1839, and was celebrated with a ball attended by guests of honour King Carl Johan and Crown Prince Oscar. This lay the foundation for many festive events and traditions for which Gamle Logen later became renowned. After a complete restoration in 1988, the house continues to hold all sizes of banquets and dinner parties, balls and concerts, lectures, conferences and meetings, prize awards and fashion events.

Gamle Logens main hall, decorated in late-Empire style and officially opened in 1844, is world famous for the quality of its acoustics. Due to the varied program of classical music and jazz, contemporary songwriters and even pop and rock, it attracts audiences and performers of a broad spectre.

Historically, Gamle Logen has played a major role in the development of Norway’s cultural life. Norwegian artists of both national and international fame have performed here, such as Edvard Grieg, Henrik Ibsen, Ole Bull, followed by Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller, Duke Ellington and Josephine Baker. In more recent years, we have seen pop and rock names as Bob Geldof and Richard Thompson alongside the classical talents of Grieg Trio, TrondheimSolistene and Truls Mørk to mention but a few of the performances at Gamle Logen. Every effort has been made to preserve and restore its historic elegance and atmosphere. And, with 50,000 visitors a year, Gamle Logen has held a prominent position as an important centre for cultural happenings, public events and private spheres.

Dining
As a function venue, this elegant building is in a class of its own. Gamle Logen offers beautiful rooms and halls for gatherings of 10 to 800 people. The kitchen, which combines the traditional with the contemporary and its professional and service-minded staff, will ensure that the guests enjoy an unparalleled experience in unique surroundings. A well thought-out and carefully planned menu is one of the most important factors in organizing a successful event. Distinguished chef, Øivind Vinje and his team can offer a varied selection of culinary temptations that will suit most tastes.

Conference
Gamle Logen offers a range of beautiful rooms of various sizes, making it an attractive venue for not only major conferences but also smaller courses and meetings. Accordingly, the company offers everything from technical equipment to hosting expertise. Gamle Logen takes bookings from most business and industry sectors and regularly host major conferences for government ministries and public bodies.