Norway, a country with a rich history, unique nature, and a high standard of living, is also known for its picturesque fjords, giant cliffs, and mighty waterfalls.
The country is part of the Schengen area, but is not a member of the European Union (EU). While maintaining its independence, it cooperates with the EU through the European Economic Area.
Norway is the home of the Nobel Peace Prize. The award ceremony is held annually in the capital, Oslo.
One of the most famous sights in Norway is the Preikestolen rock.
Preikestolen (translated as "Pulpit Rock"), or Pulpit Rock, is a famous Norwegian cliff that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Interestingly, until the 20th century, this place had a different name - "Hyvlatonnå" ("flat tooth"), but in order to attract tourists, it was renamed to the above.
The best time to hike to the summit is from April to October. This is primarily due to weather conditions. It is not recommended to climb in winter, as the path to the cliff is very slippery and the climb is dangerous. The hike to Preikestolen, although of moderate difficulty, is accessible to most people, takes about 4-5 hours each way, and is very scenic.
There are no handrails or protective structures at Preikestolen, and the most daring hiker can stand or sit on the very edge of the cliff. However, this requires great caution and risk. The desire for extreme and taking photos can lead to the end of life in an instant, as has happened to several tourists here at different times. In the middle of the cliff there is a huge, terrifying crack that creates an additional "thrill". You think that this crack can only get deeper and deeper. But there is nothing to be afraid of, there is a funny legend that Preikestolen can only collapse and fall apart if 7 sisters from one village marry 7 brothers from a neighboring village. Norwegians also believe that in ancient times sacrifices were made to pagan gods at Preikestolen.
The giant Preikestolen rock, rising above the Lyse fjord, is a flat platform measuring 604 meters high and approximately 25x25 meters at its peak - 625 square meters. Its flat surface, resembling a unique geometric figure, gives the impression that it was artificially created. Every year, hundreds of thousands of tourists come here to climb the trail to the top and enjoy the magnificent view. The area is included in the list of the most beautiful places in the world. For example, Lonely Planet called Preikestolen "one of the most breathtaking places to admire the landscape" in 2015.
The summit of Preikestolen is beyond words. It's a great place for photo shoots and videos that go viral on social media.
There are a few more interesting facts about this place. For example, bottles “filled” with Preikestolen air are now for sale on eBay. The advertisement said that “Pulpit air” is fresh Norwegian air that will remind you of beautiful fjords, snowy peaks and amazing waterfalls. Preikestolen is the star of television screens. In the final scene of the last episode of the second season of the TV series “Vikings”, the main character Ragnar sits on Preikestolen. And in one of the scenes of the famous film “Mission: Impossible - Fallout”, Hollywood star Tom Cruise climbs the cliffside of Preikestolen...
The area around Preikestolen is also interesting. There are many other attractions here, such as Lysefjord, Vøringsfossen waterfall, and Kjeragbolten.