Håkon’s Hall (also spelled Haakon in English) was built between 1247 and 1261 and named after King Håkon Håkonsson, who commissioned it. It was built for great occasions in history and used for coronations, balls, and weddings, though it also was used for practical daily activities. It was the largest building in the royal residence at Holmen, which was the political center of Norway in the 13th century. Visitors to hotels in Bergen today will see a reconstructed hall after a fire during World War II, in the midst of the city near the Bryggen and Bergen Aquarium.
Håkon’s Hall is three stories tall and still the largest secular medieval building still intact in Norway. It’s a building of mostly stone, most of which is local, and the corners, window and doorc casings were worked from soapstone. The design is similar to contemporary British Gothic stone halls. Many of the furnishings and interior décor are also notable to tourists, including old stonework, a covered staircase, and more. Guests may also want to tour the palace yard.