The Monument of King Olav V

The story of the King Olav V monument at Skjerjehamn is almost as rugged as the coast it stands on.

The statue, created by sculptor Knut Steen, was originally commissioned by the Municipality of Oslo but was famously rejected. What was considered a defeat in the capital became the start of a new chapter in Gulen.

The 4th of August 2007 marked a significant day for Skjerjehamn. Here are the most important details from the event:

  • The Unveiling: The then County Governor of Sogn og Fjordane, Oddvar Flæte, had the honor of unveiling the 7-meter-tall monument.
  • The Public Celebration: Over 3,000 people traveled to the small island by boat and car. It was a crowd flow rarely seen in the district.
  • Cultural Contributions: The day was celebrated with music, speeches, and an atmosphere characterized by both pride and a subtle “payback” to Oslo.

Why Skjerjehamn?

It was entrepreneur Ola Braanaas who purchased the statue and ensured its arrival in Western Norway. By placing the “People’s King” at the entrance to the shipping lane, he gave the monument a location where the king could gaze out over the sea – an element that perfectly suited both the artwork and the king’s legacy.

Did you know?

The statue was transported in parts from Italy, where it was carved in granite, before being assembled and erected in its current location at Skjerjehamn.

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