At second port in Norway today. August 25 -STAVANGER, NORWAY:
Today we are going on a shore excursion "Highlights of Stavanger". It is the 4th largest city in Norway.
Founded in 1125 when Stavanger cathedral was built. It is the Oil capitol of Norway.
1809 fish (herring) influx to fjords created population boom. Recession in 1825 when herring disappeared caused mass migration to U.S. Community turned to sprat (sardines) fishing and canning.
Three Swords in the Rock monument dedicated to
King Harold for his battle victories in 1872. Took him 10 years to conquer future Queen Gida's heart.
Stavanger University is the largest in Norway- Petroleum Engineering.
Went to an ancient Viking settlement dated to 590AD- Viking longhouses are from Iron Age. Original dirt floors and fireplaces, and original pillar holes for beds. Sod roofs with roof vents. Fungus for tinder, had to import flintrocks from Denmark to start fires. Blue dye for clothing was made from urine of young men who drank a lot of mead.
Ullanhaug Observation Tower 200 meters above sea level is an ancient site with 16 carved marble headstones with regions and chieftains carved on them, and is the only thing left of battle of 1872.
Cathedral was built in 1125.

Ship departs at 6:00pm cruising overnight to Inverness, Scotland.