The Crystalhouse in Brevik

About

The Crystal House (Krystallhuset) in Brevik is a striking seaside monument located in Vikingbukta (Viking Bay). Designed in the shape of a lighthouse to honor Brevik’s proud maritime heritage, the glass structure rests on a base of local marble and houses a giant crystal extracted from the local Norcem limestone mines.

Positioned right by the Brevik Fjord, this landmark seamlessly blends unique architecture, industrial history, and royal heritage.

Architecture & Royal Unveiling

• Design & Construction: The concept was created by Johnny Sørensen and drawn by architect Poul Neubert. Glazier Jan Erik Olsen assembled the glass structure, which is framed by a traditional cast-iron railing.

• Gift from Norcem: Both the massive crystal inside the glass house and the marble foundation were gifted by the local cement producer, Norcem. The lower marble base is designed as a bench for visitors to sit and enjoy the fjord view.

• Unveiled by Queen Sonja: On June 24, 1995, during Brevik's 150th anniversary, H.M. Queen Sonja officially unveiled the monument after arriving with H.M. King Harald V aboard the Royal Yacht Norge.

Symbolic Ice Export & Historical Crossroads

Situated in Vikingbukta, the location overlooks the Brevik Fjord as it stretches out toward the sea:

• The Ice Export Era: Two marble pillars at the entrance symbolize the exact size of the natural ice blocks exported to Britain and Europe over a century ago. This vast export industry once employed hundreds of men and a fleet of sailing ships.

• Historic Transportation Hub: Since the early 1600s, crossing the Brevik Current (Breviksstrømmen) here was a vital ferry connection linking eastern and western Norway.