The Customs House – From Trade Hub to Vibrant Public Space

As we approach the shore, you see the old Customs House area, where Bergen welcomed goods, travelers, and sailors for centuries. This was the city’s official customs station, where imports were taxed before reaching the market. During the Age of Sail, Bergen was one of Norway’s busiest ports, handling fish, timber, coffee, spices, and textiles. Today, the area has been transformed into Aktiv Tollbodkai, a public space with playgrounds, sports facilities, seating areas, and urban gardens, designed for accessibility and inclusion.