Oslo is the capital city of Norway and it belongs to the district of Ostlandet. It used to be known as Christiana. Today, it not only serves as the nation´s capital but it is also the cultural, economic, and scientific center or Norway as well as its seat of government. It is also an important maritime center for Europe and the world. It holds around 980 maritime companies which includes some of the world´s largest shipping companies, shipbrokers, and insurance brokers. A 2004 census reports that the metropolitan area of Oslo is home to around 1.2 Million people.

According to Norse sagas, the city was founded by the King Harald Hardrade around 1049. There is also evidence of settlement prior to 1000 resulting in the celebration of Oslo´s millennium in the year 2000. Throughout its history, the city was destroyed several times by fire, but was successfully rebuilt each time.

The city and the rest of Norway are known for its humid continental climates. The summers, however, are pleasantly warm owning to the country´s proximity with the ocean.

A large number of parks are scattered around the city. They attract attention from both local and European tourists. Most notable of these parks are the St Hanshaugen Park and Toyen Park, which stretches out behind the Munch Museum. Another part of note is the Vigeland Park. The city government also runs a total of 8 swimming pools of which Toyenbadet is the largest indoor swimming facility in the city and one of the few 50-meter indoor main pools in Norway.