German Quay

The German Quay dates from Hanseatic times. Besides excavated remains, several buildings (from the Hanseatic Museum) were reconstructed following the fire in 1955 that destroyed this historical quay completely. It is a UNESCO Heritage Site. Edvard Grieg grew up amid busy streets, near old Hanseatic buildings and the fish market, as well as the port, from which ships carrying lobsters sent by his father’s firm sailed off to distant lands. The future composer was a curious young man and knew every street and alleyway in Bergen. He would often observe life at the port. He took part in typical children’s games; he loved tag, but was also fascinated by sad events, particularly funeral cortèges.