Grünerløkka, Oslo

Grünerløkka, situated within the city of Oslo, was incorporated into the city (then known as Christiania) in 1858. Historically, Grünerløkka was recognized as a working-class enclave; however, since the latter part of the 20th century, it has been progressively undergoing gentrification. Despite its location in the East End, Grünerløkka boasts higher property values compared to other neighborhoods in that vicinity. The name Grünerløkka honors Friedrich Grüner (1628-1674), who held the positions of chief administrator and master of the mint in Christiania.

In 1861, Norwegian businessman Thorvald Meyer acquired portions of the Grünerløkka region. He was responsible for the construction of Grünerløkka's primary thoroughfare, now called Thorvald Meyers gate. Over the 19th century, Grünerløkka transformed into a hub for the working class, attracting numerous factories due to its advantageous proximity to the Akerselva River.

Grünerløkka is situated within the vicinity of Paulus Church (Paulus kirke). By 1866, the population of the Paulus parish stood at 13,600, a figure that surged to 22,000 by the year 1900. Interestingly, at that time, only five streets in Oslo could boast populations exceeding 3,000, three of which were located within Grünerløkka: Markveien, Thorvald Meyers gate, and Toftes gate.

Grünerløkka also features Olaf Ryes Plass, a park square named after Norwegian-Danish General Olaf Rye (1791–1849). Initially an open field, it remained so until the 1880s. In 1883, Oslo kommune acquired the property from members of the Grüner family. Subsequently, a narrow diagonal street was constructed, connecting Markveien to Thorvald Meyers gate, with a midway stop for horses and carriages. Today, this area has transformed into a pedestrian park square.