The town of Kragerø was established as a municipality on 1 January 1838. In the days of the sailing ships, Kragerø was one of Norway’s largest post cities. The municipality now includes 495 islands, islets and skerries along with 4,000 leisure houses.
Kragerå also has an interesting history, one of the first Africans in Norway (that has a known identity) was Christian Hansen Ernst. He was an employee of the postal service, and a former servant Ulrik Fredrik Gyldenløve. He was killed at present-day Knivstikkersmauet («knife stabber alley») in 1694.
Also the norwegian painter Edvard Munch was a big fan of this town and was the one who said Kragerø was «The Pearl of the Coastal Towns» (Perlen blandt kystbyene).
The London-based newspaper The Independent, published an article on Kragerø stating that «When Norwegians want to get away from it all they head for Kragero. Forests, fjords and islands await them at the place where Munch found peace and relaxation.
In Kragerø and the area around you can see where Munch liked to spend his time, see the lighthouse in Jomfruland, eat out by the many restaurants at the harbour or visit some of the many art galleries.
Here are some photos of this beautiful town.
