The old city

Looking towards land, we now see Molja Lighthouse, guiding sailors safely home since 1858. Remarkably, this area contains some of the few buildings that escaped the devastating flames of Ålesund’s great fire of 1904, when almost the entire town was reduced to ashes. Here you'll find the Fisheries Museum, located in authentic maritime warehouses dating from the mid-1800s. The museum provides fascinating insights into Ålesund’s proud maritime heritage and the vital role fishing has played in the city’s history. Close by is Teaterfabrikken, a vibrant cultural venue housed in rustic, original premises, famous for its informal atmosphere and lively performances. Originally built as a factory in the 19th century, the building tells the story of Ålesund’s industrial past, long before Art Nouveau became the city’s hallmark. Together, these locations form an authentic time capsule, offering a glimpse into old Ålesund and standing as living reminders of how the city appeared before the catastrophe shaped its unique urban landscape of today.