Approximately halfway between Kristiansand and Stavanger, is the municipality of Flekkefjord. Located in the westernmost part of the Sørlandet region, the town was established in 1838. Prior to this, the town was already well established as a trade port. As far back as the 1500’s, traders from the Netherlands were frequent visitors trading goods for the plentiful herring, stone, and timber of the region. During times of conflict between France and the Netherlands, Flekkefjord became an ideal smugglers port because it was both an access point to the North Sea and has tides that do not change much, so boats could come and go at all hours of the day and night.
During the 1800’s at the height of herring fishing in the area, many Dutch fishermen built homes in the northern end of town. This area became known as Hollenderbyen, or Holland town, and has been preserved and restored to keep its original charm and beauty. Here there are quaint white wooden homes that line up along small winding lanes. The white building facades are often decorated with colorful flowerboxes in summer, another practice that the Dutch are credited for importing.
Not only did the Dutch contribute much inspiration to the area because of their trade history, but that influence extended to many Norwegians traveling to the Netherlands. Norwegian boys joined Dutch ships as crewmen while some young Norwegian women went to Amsterdam to find work as maids. It is estimated that more than 10,000 Norwegians got married in the Netherlands between 1626 and 1800 and that a large majority stayed there permanently.
Today, the charm of Flekkefjord is enhanced with street art displays that dot walls in the area. Shipwreck enthusiasts recognize the town as a great diving spot to explore the seventeen shipwrecks that can be viewed below the sea. With a rich history and vibrant modern community, the town of Flekkefjord remains memorable to those who visit.
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