Trondheim

Trondheim or Trondhjem (ancient Nidaros), city and port in central Norway, administrative centre of Sør-Trøndelag County, on Trondheim Fiord. Trondheim is an archiepiscopal see, one of the largest cities in the country, and a commercial centre for the surrounding agricultural area. The principal industries include shipbuilding, metalworking, and the production of processed foods and textiles. The 11th-century Nidaros Cathedral, erected over the tomb of King Olaf II, patron saint of Norway, is considered one of the finest ecclesiastical buildings in Scandinavia and is the place where Norwegian coronations are held. The University of Trondheim (1968) is here. Founded as Nidaros in ad 997, the city served as the capital of Norway until 1380. Trondheim was occupied by German troops during World War II. Population 157,813 (2005 estimate).