KODE 1 – Permanenten

Overview

KODE 1 (also known as Permanenten) is the decorative-arts branch of Bergen's KODE art-museum complex. Housed in a grand 1896 building on the shore of Lille Lungegårdsvann, it showcases Norwegian and international craft, design, and silverwork spanning several centuries.

Highlights

• Chinese art collection: One of Northern Europe's finest collections of Chinese decorative arts.
• Bergen silverwork: Exquisite examples of the city's renowned silver-smithing tradition.
• Temporary exhibitions: Rotating shows on contemporary Scandinavian design and craft.

History

The building was originally the Vestlandske Kunstindustrimuseum (West Norway Museum of Decorative Art), founded in 1887. In 2007 it merged with Bergen Art Museum and the Rasmus Meyer, Stenersen, and Lysverket collections to form KODE – Art Museums and Composer Homes.

Visitor Tips

• One ticket, four museums: A single KODE ticket grants same-day access to all four buildings.
• Allow extra time: The temporary exhibitions are often a highlight.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.