Trondheim occupies a special place in Norwegian history and culture. The city was founded by Viking King Olav Tryggvason in AD 997. Several historical battles fought here, including the battle between King Sverre and Erling Skakke, in 1179. The city has experienced several major fires – the most devastating in 1651 and 1681. The 1651 fire destroyed 90% of the buildings in Trondheim, and the 1681 fire led to a total reconstruction of the city.

These stunning historical photographs show how Trondheim looked like at the end of the 20th century.