Helland: Industrial History and War Heritage

Helland can be understood through two cultural-history landmarks: the Piperensefabrikken as industrial heritage and the commemoration of a camp for Russian prisoners of war. The focus is therefore on the area’s industrial history and the memory of the camp.

Industrial History and War Heritage in Helland

The Piperensefabrikken in Helland is an industrial heritage site. At its peak, it was Norway’s largest manufacturer of pipe cleaners. Its heritage status is thus linked to a specific production history and a clearly identified product.

The camp for Russian prisoners of war in Helland is dated to 1942; its remains are classified as a war memorial. The camp’s watchtower is still largely intact. These details concern different aspects: the camp’s historical date, the classification of its remains, and the condition of the watchtower.

More Perspectives in the Wider Destination of Ålesund

Ålesund stretches across several islands towards the Atlantic and brings together city life with the surrounding fjords and mountains. Ålesund is known for its Art Nouveau architecture. The Jugendstilsenteret is a museum and national centre for Art Nouveau. It presents the subject through authentic interiors, objects, and temporary exhibitions.

KUBE is housed in the former branch building of Norges Bank, built in 1906, in central Ålesund. An exhibition about the 1904 town fire features a model of the town as it looked before the fire. Together, these examples offer different cultural-historical perspectives: Art Nouveau, a former bank building, and the townscape before the fire.

Activities and Culture in Ålesund

There are also different ways to get active. Aksla can be reached from central Ålesund by climbing 418 steps from Byparken to Fjellstua. The Brosundet canal in the city centre can be explored by kayak; providers and availability may vary. At Aksla, the focus is on the stair route, while the kayak activity follows the canal.

Atlanterhavsparken is located in Tueneset, three kilometres from Ålesund city centre, and offers interactive, educational experiences about the sea. The Fisheries Museum traces the history of fishing and onshore processing. These options offer marine experiences alongside a look at fishing and processing as distinct themes.

No previous experience is needed for sailing trips on the Storeggen of Aalesund. The Wildlife Sea Safari takes passengers from Ålesund along the open coast of Sunnmøre in an RIB. They can look out for white-tailed eagles, seals, and other wildlife; sightings are not guaranteed.

SVAI Sauna Molja is a floating sauna on Brosundet in the heart of Ålesund. Sea swimming is possible there all year round. Check the current conditions before your visit. XL Diner focuses on Norwegian klippfisk, or dried and salted fish.

Explore more destinations: Kjerstad, Søvik, Vatne, Brattvåg, Vestre, Haram, Longva, Fjørtoft

Go to the main travel overview: Haram.