If you’re visiting Kristiansand, one of the most charming stops you can make is Cardamom Town (Kardemomme by), a life-size, walkable version of the beloved Norwegian storybook world created by author and illustrator Thorbjørn Egner. Nestled inside the Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park (Dyreparken), this pastel-hued village brings to life the gentle, whimsical universe from “When the Robbers Came to Cardamom Town,” complete with cobbled lanes, whitewashed walls, and the sound of soft music drifting from balconies. It’s an immersive, family-friendly experience that feels like stepping into a living picture book.
Egner’s tale, first published in 1955, has long been a cornerstone of Norwegian children’s culture. The story follows the easygoing rhythm of a small town watched over by the kind Police Chief Bastian (Politimesteren), the practical Aunt Sofie (Tante Sofie), and three hapless robbers—Kasper, Jesper, and Jonathan—who are more comedic than criminal. In the park’s faithful recreation, you’ll recognize the watchtower, the tram, the barber’s shop, the bakery, and the chief’s office, all arranged around a sunny square. Daily performances and songs carry the narrative forward, so even visitors unfamiliar with the book quickly pick up the story’s gentle humor and themes of community.
One of the unique draws here is how seamlessly play and performance blend together. Children can ring the tower bell, peek into the robbers’ hideout, or join a singalong in the square. During peak season, the town hosts short theatrical shows in Norwegian, but the physical comedy, expressive acting, and musical cues make them accessible to non-Norwegian speakers as well. Between shows, you can explore the tiny streets, sample baked goods, and collect stamps in souvenir “passports” designed for young explorers—a small detail that turns wandering into a mini-adventure.
Practicalities are straightforward. Cardamom Town is located within Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park, about 15 minutes by car or bus from Kristiansand city center. You’ll need a park ticket for entry, and a summer season supplement may apply when live shows are running. Opening hours vary by season, with the most complete program in late spring and summer. The site is stroller-friendly, though some narrow steps and tower access may be better for confident walkers. On-site amenities include restrooms, a café, souvenir kiosks, and shaded seating around the main square—useful during warm southern Norway afternoons.
For travelers planning a broader Kristiansand itinerary, combine Cardamom Town with the Zoo’s other highlights: the Scandinavian wildlife enclosures, the pirate-themed bay, and the heritage-inspired area that showcases traditional wooden buildings. Arriving early helps you catch morning performances and avoid lines, while afternoons are perfect for a more leisurely stroll and photos. If you’re staying nearby, many local hotels offer family packages that include park admission—handy for those visiting with kids.
What makes this attraction special isn’t just nostalgia. Cardamom Town expresses a distinctly Norwegian ethos: civility, community, and kindness wrapped in gentle humor. The town’s slow pace is a reminder to slow down yourself—sit under a balcony, listen to a melody you don’t quite know, and watch children turn corners into discoveries. Whether you grew up with Egner’s stories or are encountering them for the first time, this little city within the trees adds warmth and imagination to any Kristiansand visit.
Ultimately, Cardamom Town is more than a theme-park set—it’s a cultural touchstone dressed in sun-washed walls and old-time charm. It offers families a shared story to step into, couples a picturesque wander, and culture-curious travelers a memorable introduction to Norwegian children’s literature. Come for the songs and playful scenes; stay for the feeling that, in this tiny town, everyone has time to be neighborly.