The Blue Stone Monument, Bergen

The Blue Stone Monument in Bergen is a notable city landmark, celebrated both for its artistic value and its role as a communal gathering point. Created by Asbjørn Andersen and unveiled on March 27, 1993, this striking monument was a gift from the Kavli Trust in honor of its 100th anniversary.

Constructed from Brazilian sodalite, the monument features a nine-meter-long (approximately 30 feet) stone that lies atop a stone block. This arrangement gives the stone a distinctive tilt toward the northeast. The setup includes a larger foundation that integrates a smaller gray square stone sculpture, resembling a cover over an opening at the foundation's end.

The Blue Stone is more than just a piece of public art; it has become a vital part of Bergen's social fabric, serving as a common meeting spot for residents. Its significance was highlighted in 2007 when the stone was enveloped in pink plastic for a marketing campaign, attracting both curiosity and attention. Moreover, following the tragic 2011 Norway attacks, the monument transformed into a poignant memorial site, where people gathered to lay flowers and pay their respects, underscoring its role as a symbolic and physical anchor in the community.