Vardø should receive assistance to halt its decline and secure a place on the World Heritage List, writes Frode N. Børfjord.
The two oldest cities in Northern Norway are located by the sea on either side of the border between West and East Finnmark. Vardø and Hammerfest both received their city status by royal decree on 17 July 1789 from King Christian VII of Denmark-Norway.
Since the document for Vardø was signed a few hours before the one for Hammerfest, Vardø is considered the oldest city in Finnmark. Vardø had also been better preserved than Hammerfest, where large parts of the city were burned down by the Germans.
While most of Hammerfest was reduced to ruins by the Germans, parts of Vardø went through bombing by the USSR due to German forces located on the territory and the destruction caused by the Germans during their retreat. Consequently, Vardø has more historical pre-war buildings than can be found in many other places in Finnmark.
As a result, there is a stronger historical allure to visiting Vardø than can be experienced in many other locations in the county. This aspect could be further developed, it is believed.
There has been a noticeable decline in many streets in Vardø, where old houses could still be saved. Nevertheless, significant efforts have been made on several buildings, and the artworks on some of the decaying structures have themselves become tourist attractions.
Vardøhus Fortress is well maintained with state funding. The monument at Steilneset, commemorating the witch trials, has become a major international tourist attraction due to its compelling history and architecture. In terms of destination development, there are numerous opportunities for tourism growth, education, art, and culture.
It is noted that there are more "neglected" houses and commercial buildings in the city. The decay is worsening.
Residents hope that much can still be salvaged with strong support, along with cultural and historical initiatives funded by the county and state, as well as partnerships with higher education institutions, national museums, and professional destination developers.
With its fishing and Pomor trade history, the municipality of Vardø and its residents should now receive contributions, assistance, and support to halt the decay, restore, and revitalise Northern Norway's oldest city.
The population of Vardø has a vibrant interest in life, culture, and urban development. They are ready to take action. In several areas, buildings are now in a condition that may pose a danger to visitors. However, it is not too late to save Vardø from further decline.
According to Børfjord, the city, along with its history and geographical position, is invaluable for world heritage status. Norway currently has eight entries on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The author suggests that Vardø should become the northernmost and northeasternmost site on the World Heritage List in Norway.
There is a positive example to follow in Norway: the development of the Røros mining town. Røros has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1980. The old wooden buildings in Røros have become one of Norway’s largest conservation projects due to these historic structures.
Among other things, they have established a building conservation centre that attracts craftsmen from various places in Europe. It has become a resource centre with ripple effects extending far beyond Røros. There are now 15 craftsmen associated with the centre from Germany, Estonia, Romania, Sweden, and France. The environment is also linked to Sør-Trøndelag University College.
It is believed that Vardø could become a dynamic historical centre for education, courses, cultural exchange, and increased tourism, potentially becoming an attractive stop on the route to Vardø and Hamningberg.
Source: Nordnorskdebatt.no (in Norwegian)
Also read the publication:
Funding Extension For Indigenous Children Program in Nunavut
