Ålesund
Norway
Sister City Since 1986
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The Tacoma-Ålesund Sister City committee was established in 1986 by Erling Mork and a strong network of Tacoma citizens with Norwegian heritage. Terry Hale was the first chair for the Sister Cities committee.
We focus on fostering grass-roots involvement to maintain and broaden recognition of a mutual heritage and to facilitate strong connections between Ålesund, Norway and Tacoma. We specifically focus on education, culture, and common industries. -
Our Current Committee Chair:
Linda McCrea, Retired Executive, Tacoma Power
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About Ålesund
Ålesund is beautifully situated on several islands on the coast of Sunnmøre, and is the gateway to some of the world’s most famous fjords and natural attractions. The town has a strong and vibrant history, dating back to the Viking era, even though it wasn’t granted municipal status until 1848.The town was devastated in an enormous fire on January 23rd 1904, and as 850 houses burnt down, more than 10.000 people were left homeless.In the years to follow, Ålesund was rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style that characterizes the town today with its many turrets, ornaments and colourful facades. A museum celebrating this architectural style saw the light of day the summer of 2003, when The Art Nouveau Centre (Jugendstilsenteret) opened its doors in the listed building The Swan Pharmacy.The town mountain Aksla has got a spectacular panoramic view of the Sunnmøre Alps, the town centre, the ocean and the islands in the archipelago, so a walk up the mountain’s 418 steps is worth the effort!Today Ålesund is a modern and rapidly growing town, and with its 46 316 inhabitants it is the natural commercial and industrial capital of the Sunnmøre region. In Ålesund you can find a variety of exciting attractions, restaurants, shops and activities to dive into.The town has got a strong tradition in the maritime industry, and is considered the fisheries capital of Norway. Ålesund is also one of the world’s largest export harbours when it comes to “klippfisk”, i.e dried and salted codfish. Enjoy a savoury meal made from this delicacy in one of Ålesund’s many fine restaurants; it is a meal to remember!Facts
Ålesund became a city in 1848.Ålesund is located in the area of Sunnmøre in the county of Møre og Romsdal. It is situated in the northern region of western Norway, midway between Bergen and Trondheim and is home to Norway’s largest cod-fishing fleet.Like Tacoma, is a port Ålesund city with maritime industries, marine research and ship building. The area around Ålesund also has a large furniture industry.After begin destroyed by fire In 1904, Ålesund was rebuilt in Jugendstil- art nouveau- style and is a popular tourist destination for the construction design as well as central location to the fjords and a favorite port of call for cruise ships in the summer.Ålesund is home one of three campuses of the Norwegian University of Science and Techology (1800 students), as well and the Ålesund School of the Arts.The population of Ålesund is approximately 47,199 with Norwegian and English is the most common languages spoken.Ålesund has a mild temperate climate where winters are mild and damp. January is the coldest month of the year.